Winter-proof your vehicle

Driving in the winter poses special challenges for everyone. Ice, snow and the cold require motorists to exercise care even before they hit the road. Here are some suggestions from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help you prepare for winter driving. Winterize your car Your car needs some extra care before the harsh weather sets in. Get a tune-up, paying special attention to your heater, defroster, windshield wipers and fluid, battery and brakes. Also, make sure that your tires are appropriate for winter driving. At the very least, make sure your tires have adequate air pressure and tread depth. The minimum tread for adequate traction is one-sixteenth of an inch. Drive appropriately for the conditions • Check weather reports before you travel to determine if it’s safe to drive. If the weather is bad and you must go out, strongly consider public transportation. • Avoid the build-up of carbon monoxide in your car and home. Don’t let your car run while parked in the garage, and remove any snow that accumulates near the vehicle’s exhaust pipe. • Clear all snow, ice and fog from your windows before driving. • Drive slowly, and take corrective steering and breaking action gradually. • Turn on your headlights. This will not only improve your visibility, but also make yourself more visible to other motorists. • Use well-traveled routes and let others know your expected arrival time. • Remember that bridges become slick before roads do in cold conditions, and snow becomes more slippery as the weather gets warmer. Create a car emergency kit An emergency kit can mean the difference between being stranded and arriving safely at your destination. Include gloves, an ice scraper, a flashlight with extra batteries, a cell phone, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, snow chains (if permitted in your state), sand or kitty litter for traction and a small shovel. The kit can also be vital to your survival if you become stranded. Rope for a lifeline, waterproof matches and candles, drinking water, snacks, blankets, and warning devices like flares and reflectors can keep you safe and comfortable until help arrives.

There are good reasons why homeowners rates are rising

After years of relative stability, rates for homeowners insurance are increasing across the country, including in our state. Why the dramatic change? It comes down to basic economics: Insurance companies are paying out significantly more in homeowners claims and expenses than they’re receiving in premium. The gap between claim payments/expenses has existed for quite some time. Throughout the 1990s, however, rates remained relatively stable because insurance companies were able to partially offset these deficits with gains from investments. Circumstances changed beginning in 2000. Claim payments continued to rise, caused primarily by soaring home repair, medical and litigation costs, as well as a large influx of storm claims. Meanwhile, a weakening stock market decreased investment revenue for insurers and private citizens alike. This has made additional rate adjustments necessary to maintain an appropriate balance between claim payments/expenses and revenue. Without them, insurers would continue to lose money, which would eventually compromise their ability to pay future claims. There are a number of things insurance companies do to help keep premium costs down. It’s not just a matter of raising rates. At American Family, we continually look at ways to be more efficient, fight insurance fraud and finance research on safe building materials and theft prevention. There are also a number of things homeowners can do to control their premium costs: • Consider higher deductibles – A higher deductible can lower your premium. Remember, if you choose this route, you will pay more out-of-pocket expenses if you suffer a loss and file a claim. • Ask about available discounts – A premium discount may be available if you have a qualifying fire/security system installed in your home or if you have a new home. If you insure your home and auto with American Family, you may be able eligible for discounts on both of those policies. • Prevent home losses/damage – Regular maintenance will make your home safer and less likely to suffer damage. Routinely check your home for fire, water and safety hazards. Safeguard your home against theft, too. Decisions to increase rates are made only after careful deliberation of many factors. Changing rates over time keeps insurance companies financially strong so they’ll be ready when their policyholders need them most: when they have a claim.

Winter heating poses carbon monoxide hazards

As temperatures fall outside, the comfort and warmth of a home is one of winter’s true pleasures. But where there’s heat, there’s also the potential for carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal and is referred to as a “silent killer” because it’s nearly impossible to detect without a proper monitor. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 200 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year; thousands of others are treated at hospital emergency rooms. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that is created when fossil fuels (such as gasoline, liquid petroleum or LP gas, wood, coal, charcoal, propane, natural gas, oil and methane) burn incompletely. Sources of carbon monoxide in your home include oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, wood and gas fireplaces, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters and wood stoves. It’s important to be aware of the potential hazards in using these household appliances and the safety measures you can take to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. The following information was compiled from three experts in the field: the CPSC, the Centers for Disease Control and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning: • Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune up central heating systems annually. Repair any leaks promptly. • Keep vent hoods and pipes securely in place and in good condition. • Choose properly sized wood stoves that are certified to meet the EPA emission standards. Make sure doors on all wood stoves fit tightly. • Keep gas appliances properly adjusted. • Use proper fuel in kerosene space heaters. • Do not idle your car in the garage. • Install a carbon monoxide detector; the CPSC recommends one that meets the requirements of the current Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standard 2034. If you install only one carbon monoxide detector, the CPSC recommends locating it near a sleeping area, where it can wake you if you are asleep. • Test your carbon monoxide detector on a regular basis. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: • Low levels of carbon monoxide can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea and mild headaches. • Moderate levels of carbon monoxide can cause severe headaches, dizziness, mental confusion and possibly fainting. If these levels continue or grow, the results may be fatal. What to do if you suspect you have carbon monoxide poisoning: Get fresh air immediately and see a doctor. In addition, have a qualified technician inspect your fuel-burning appliances and chimneys to make sure they are operating correctly and/or to find the source of carbon monoxide.

It’s that time of year again: Watch out for darting deer

(October 2013) — An estimated 500,000 deer-vehicle crashes occur on U.S. roadways each year, resulting in thousands of injuries and multiple deaths. Most of these crashes occur between October and November during the deer-breeding season. Most deer-related crashes occur in the country. But a growing number of these accidents are also taking place in or near residential areas, as new subdivisions are built closer to deer habitats. Deer-vehicle crashes are often unavoidable, but here are a few defensive driving tips to minimize your chances: • Stay alert, pay more attention to the road and roadside – and actually look for deer. Be especially alert at dawn and dusk, the peak movement times for deer and when visibility is low. • Exercise special caution when moving through a posted deer crossing zone; the signs are there for a reason. • If you see a deer on the road, brake firmly and blow your horn. Deer often fixate on headlights, so it may not be effective to just flash your lights. • If you are unable to stop, do not swerve. It can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and hit a tree or another car. • Look for other deer after one has crossed the road. Deer seldom run alone. • Always wear your seatbelt. Most people injured in deer-vehicle crashes were not buckled. If your vehicle strikes a deer, contact the authorities. You may be legally required to report an accident with significant vehicle damage, depending on state laws. Also contact your insurance company to report your claim. Collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive section of your auto insurance policy.

Get to know your homeowners policy

(October 2013) — We take tremendous pride in the places we call home. We constantly invest time, energy and expense to make sure these residences fit our ever-changing needs and tastes. So what do you know about the insurance that protects your home, sweet home? Maybe not as much as you should. Homeowners insurance protects your home in the event of sudden and accidental damage, subject to the terms of the policy. Different policies provide different types of coverage so it’s important to review your options. As you would expect, policies with broader coverage generally have a higher premium than policies where coverage is more limited. The deductibles and endorsements you select, and the physical characteristics of your home, all play a role in the amount of premium you pay. Most homeowners policies have two parts. Section I insures your home and its contents against a variety of causes, or perils, such as fire, hail, wind, lightning, theft and vandalism. Section II provides liability protection for situations when a third party suffers an injury on your property, and you’re found to you have some degree of fault. A common misperception is that homeowners insurance provides coverage up to the market value of the home. That’s not true. You are covered up to the amount it takes to rebuild or repair your home or the limit designated in your policy – whichever is less. Some policies provide coverage for a certain percentage beyond the limit of the policy. If you’ve recently expanded or renovated your home, contact your agent to discuss if an increase in coverage is needed to reflect the home’s higher reconstruction amount. Even if your home has not undergone a major change, it’s still a good idea to evaluate your coverage on an annual basis to make sure it coincides with current rebuilding costs. Remember, the amount of coverage you select will determine the maximum amount of money you can receive from your insurance company. If your home is severely damaged or destroyed, the last thing you need to worry about is whether or not you can afford to rebuild it.

Prepare for Trick or Treating & Beware of dog bites: Tips to keep you and your children safe

(October 2013) — There are tremendous responsibilities and potential liabilities that come with owning a dog. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports there are approximately 4.7 million dog bites per year, resulting in 800,000 injuries that require medical attention. Half of those injuries are to people under the age of 18. Dog behavior is a serious concern for everyone. Insurance companies often pay civil judgments for dog bites that happen on their customers’ properties. Those payments affect insurance premiums that policyholders pay. Dog bites cost the property/casualty insurance industry roughly $413 million in 2010. Since 2003, the cost of these claims has risen nearly 37 percent. When you consider those types of claims account for nearly one-third of homeowner’s liability claims, it is important to do everything you can to prevent dog bites. The Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. Humane Society offer the following tips on how to prevent dog attacks. Share this information with your loved ones for protection in a variety of situations: For owners: • Responsibility as a dog owner begins before the puppy or dog is brought home for the first time. Research dog breeds and select a dog suitable to your family and lifestyle. If you are buying a puppy, ask to meet the parents and observe the setting in which the young dog was raised. • Train or socialize your dog. Don’t play aggressive games with your dog. • Spay or neuter your dog. • Seek professional advice if your dog starts to become aggressive, such as growling or nipping. • Closely supervise children when around dogs. The size of a child may cause a dog to act in a dominant way toward a child. For everyone: • If a strange or threatening dog approaches, stand still. Don’t run or scream. Try to back against a tree or car. If you have time, climb on a car or up a tree. Then call for help. If the dog moves away, you can then move away carefully. • If a dog knocks you down, lie on the ground with knees tucked to your chest and a fist over each ear. Remain very still and quiet. • Don’t stare. Staring threatens dogs. • Be aware that approximately 80 percent of dog bites occur in the victim’s home or at a friend’s home. These “friendly” dog bites account for the majority of treated dog bites.

Aim for hunting safety

(October 2013) — With the hunting and trapping season fast approaching, it’s important to keep safety in mind when venturing outdoors. Both hunters and non-hunters who live near hunting land have a responsibility to protect themselves, their pets and livestock and their property. Protect yourself Many states require new hunters to complete a hunter-safety course before taking to the field. These courses will provide important safety precautions like dressing in proper apparel, whether its camouflage or blaze orange. People who hike in areas where hunters may be present should wear bright clothing. Don’t let children go on hikes without an adult. Protect your livestock Even landowners who never pull a trigger or set traps must take precautions to protect their land and animals during hunting season. Because pets and livestock are sometimes mistaken for deer or are caught in traps, it is wise to lock up animals that usually have free reign of your land. Many farmers spray paint an “X” on the flanks of grazing livestock to help avoid confusion. Pen livestock near farm buildings to further distinguish them from deer, and check your animals and gates daily. Protect your property Homeowners should think twice before opening up their acreage to anyone except family members and close friends. They expose not only their property to accidental losses, but also themselves to liability and potential litigation. If you don’t want hunters on your land, post “No Trespassing” or “No Hunting” signs around the perimeter of your property. If you do permit access, require the hunters to check in each time they enter your property, and get the names of each person in the hunting party. Often one person who obtains permission to hunt on a farm feels free to invite others without informing the landowner.

Universal life insurance: Security with flexibility

Life insurance is a great option for people who want to enhance their financial security. Universal life insurance takes this security a step further by generally allowing you to modify your premium payments and death benefits, subject to certain limitations. A universal life policy is similar to other types of permanent life insurance in that it can accumulate tax deferred cash value. As the policy owner, you can generally borrow against any cash value while the policy is still active, or collect any cash value in full – less any surrender fee and outstanding policy loans – if you decide to end the policy. Unlike other types of life insurance, a universal life policy offers added flexibility that allows you to adjust your premium payment and death benefit, with certain limitations. As you become more financially secure, you can make additional premium payments that can increase the cash value of the policy. These additional payments are subject to maximum amounts set by law. If your financial situation becomes less stable, you may be able to temporarily lower or stop payments as long as the policy has enough surrender value to pay the monthly insurance deduction, loan interest and policy fees. Premium payments are subject to minimum requirements provided in the policy. Some universal life insurance policies also include an “adjustable death benefit,” which generally allows you to change the death benefit amount – up or down – without having to issue a new policy. Increases may be subject to insurability. You will not be able to decrease the benefit below the minimum policy size and certain decreases may have adverse tax consequences. If you are interested in learning more about universal life insurance, sit down with an agent you trust to determine if it’s a product that’s right for you. Visit www.amfam.com to find a Life Needs Calculator to determine individual life insurance coverage needs and to learn more about Simply Protected Term life insurance and the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Todd Stanley has been an agent for American Family Life Insurance Company since 2011. His office is located at 2500 Glenn Ave., #45, Sioux City, Iowa. Todd can be contacted at 712-274-1045 to learn more about the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group, home office Madison, Wis., 53783. Some products are not available in all states

Whole life insurance: Security with cash value

A certain peace of mind comes with knowing that you’ve taken steps to help protect your loved ones’ financial future. While all types of life insurance can give you this sense of comfort, whole life insurance offers permanence that allows you to plan ahead. Most whole life policies contain several important features: a level death benefit and level premium payments, which means the amount you pay doesn’t change. A whole life policy also may accumulate tax deferred cash value over time. The major differences between term and whole life insurance are the length of coverage, premium and cash-value components. A term life policy provides coverage for a fixed period of time, with premium payments that increase gradually as you get older, and does not accumulate cash value. Subject to policy limitations, you may be able to borrow against the cash value of your whole life policy. You can also collect any cash value in full – less any surrender fee and outstanding policy loans – if you decide to end the policy. With a level premium and growing cash value, whole life insurance is an option worth considering for people who value those features. Interested persons should contact an insurance agent they trust to learn if it’s an option that will work for them. Visit www.amfam.com to find a Life Needs Calculator to determine individual life insurance coverage needs and to learn more about Simply Protected Term life insurance and the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Todd Stanley has been an agent for American Family Life Insurance Company since 2011. His office is located at 2500 Glenn Ave., #45, Sioux City, Iowa. Todd can be contacted at 712-274-1045 to learn more about the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group, home office Madison, Wis., 53783. Some products are not available in all states

Proud to be an Insurance Agent

Every September 11th the nation pauses in remembrance of the tragedy that occurred in 2001. Every year my family and I pause for that moment of silence too. This year is a little different for me. This year I realized that I am part of an industry that has made a real difference for victim’s families. Not only for this tragedy by tragedies in general. I feel proud knowing that I work in an industry that can have a great impact on peoples’ lives. I know that if or when tragedy strikes for one of my clients, I will be there. I can offer them the reassurance that their family can go on, because of the power of life insurance.

Term life insurance: A popular choice for many

People often don’t look at the complete picture of life insurance until something big happens. By that time, however, it may be too late. Term life insurance is an excellent option for people who can’t afford permanent life insurance or need life insurance for a limited period of time. A term life policy lasts for a fixed period of time, from one to 30 years or longer. It’s often purchased to provide funds for financial obligations, such as a mortgage or child’s tuition, in case the insured dies. An advantage of a term life policy is that its initial premiums are typically less expensive than other types of life insurance. This may be ideal for young families who want additional coverage for expenses such as childcare in the event one or both of the parents pass away. Depending on your reasons for purchasing term life insurance, you can choose either a level or decreasing death benefit. A level death benefit provides the same amount of coverage for the entire policy period. If you select a decreasing death benefit, your amount of insurance will go down over the length of the policy. Term life insurance is often renewable, subject to limitations in the policy, although the premiums will likely increase to compensate for the higher age of the policy owner. Some term policies may also be converted to whole life or universal life insurance. Unlike whole life or universal life policies, term life insurance does not accumulate cash value. I will talk more about whole life and universal life insurance in my next two columns. Visit www.amfam.com to find a Life Needs Calculator to determine individual life insurance coverage needs and to learn more about Simply Protected Term life insurance and the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Todd Stanley has been an agent for American Family Life Insurance Company since 2011. His office is located at 2500 Glenn Ave., #45, Sioux City, Iowa. Todd can be contacted at 712-274-1045 to learn more about the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group, home office Madison, Wis., 53783. Some products are not available in all states

Life insurance 101: The right coverage depends on your personal circumstances

Understandably, the subject of life insurance can be difficult to discuss. Like developing a will or designating a guardian for our children, it centers on the idea that we are no longer here to enjoy and care for our loved ones. No amount of life insurance can replace the emotional support we give the special people in our lives. However, it can provide them an income they can use to continue – and grow – in their lives. Consumers can select from a variety of life insurance policies and providers. Three common options are term life insurance, whole life insurance and universal life insurance. Term life insurance can offer coverage from one year to 30 years or longer, and is often purchased to provide funds for financial obligations such as a mortgage or a child’s tuition in the event the policyowner dies. A term policy contains no cash accumulation features. Whole life insurance generally provides coverage throughout a person’s life with level premium payments, as well as a level death benefit. Unlike term insurance, a whole life policy may gradually accumulate a cash value, which you may be able to borrow against while the policy is still active or cash in upon surrender of the policy. Universal life insurance offers more flexibility than whole life insurance. It allows policyowners to increase premium payments, subject to certain limits, which may increase the cash value of the policy. The death benefit may also be increased subject to continued insurability. Selecting life insurance protection that’s right for your situation is a deeply personal decision. Your loved ones’ immediate and future expenses, the income that will be lost if you die, and the amount of premium you can afford to pay are several of the factors that need to be considered. In the next three columns, I’ll address the term, whole life and universal life options in more detail. Visit www.amfam.com to find a Life Needs Calculator to determine individual life insurance coverage needs and to learn more about SimplyProtected Term life insurance and the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Todd Stanley has been an agent for American Family Life Insurance Company since 2011. His office is located at 2500 Glenn Ave., #45, Sioux City, Iowa. Todd can be contacted at 712-274-1045 to learn more about the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group, home office Madison, Wis., 53783. Some products are not available in all states

Keep cool during the hot summer

Each summer there comes a time when it’s just too hot to do anything outside your home. Knowing that heat wave is just around the corner means needing to know your air conditioning unit is going to work. Here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in regard to keeping your home cool. Beat the heat • Make sure window air conditioning units are fit snugly in the space provided. Insulate any areas that may provide an opportunity for cool air to seep out. • Install temporary window reflectors, such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat away from the home. • Don’t hesitate to cover windows receiving morning or afternoon sun with curtains, drapes, shades or awnings. • Check on elderly, young and sick neighbors. Make sure they are hydrated and have a place to stay cool. • Inspect air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation. That way all the cool air stays inside the walls of the home instead of leaking out elsewhere.

Do your homework to make sure your college-bound child is covered.

More than 35,000 property crimes take place on college and university campuses each year, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Is your college-bound child adequately insured should his or her place become the next target?

Homeowners insurance generally provides personal property coverage for a student who lives in a dormitory or other university-owned housing. The coverage is typically 10 percent of what the parents have. If the parents’ possessions are insured for $100,000, the student’s are covered for $10,000.

If your child lives off campus, however, your homeowners policy may not cover them anymore. The key question becomes: Is the child still a resident of your household?

A multitude of factors determine residency. If the student returns home for the summer and is listed as a dependant on your income taxes, he or she is still regarded as a resident of the household. In that situation, the student would still be covered under your homeowners policy.

That’s not the case if the student lives at the apartment year-round and lists it as his or her permanent address. In that situation, the student has established his or her own residence and your homeowners insurance no longer applies. The student needs to purchase a separate renters policy for protection.

A renters policy will not only cover your college student’s possessions, it will also provide liability protection should someone be injured while on the premises.

Renters insurance costs about $100-$150 per year for $15,000 in coverage. That’s pretty affordable compared to the cost of replacing personal computers, stereo equipment and other big-ticket items that college students now take to school.

College is an ideal opportunity to teach your children the value of insurance. Sit down with them and your insurance agent to make sure their needs are covered.

How much life insurance is enough?

One of the most common questions when purchasing life insurance is, “How much is enough?” The answer lies in what’s called a needs analysis. A needs analysis examines your specific financial and personal situation to help determine the type and amount of life insurance that will best satisfy your needs.

One of the first decisions you will have to make when purchasing life insurance is whether to choose term or permanent coverage.

Term life insurance can offer coverage from one year to 30 years or longer, and is often purchased to provide funds for financial obligations such as a mortgage or a child’s tuition in case the insured dies.

Permanent life insurance, which includes whole life and universal life policies, generally provides coverage throughout a person’s life. Unlike term insurance, a permanent life policy may gradually accumulate a cash value, which you may be able to borrow against while the policy is still active or cash in upon surrender of the policy.

Determining the right amount of coverage requires a solid understanding of all your policy options as well as your financial needs and goals.

A needs analysis will seek answers to questions like: What are my family’s immediate and future income needs? How much supplemental income will they need to meet expenses if I were to die tomorrow? And how much can I afford to pay in premium?

Your roles as a spouse, grandparent, stay-at-home parent or small business owner mean you have specific needs. If you have not purchased life insurance yet, consider sitting down with an insurance agent to discuss your situation and options. If you already have a policy, discuss with your agent if it’s still appropriate for your present situation and any lifestyle changes that may be on the horizon.

Visit http://www.amfam.com/learning-center/my-money/life-needs-calculator.asp  to find a Life Needs Calculator to determine individual life insurance coverage needs and to learn more about SimplyProtected Term life insurance and the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group.

Todd Stanley has been an agent for American Family Life Insurance Company since 2011. His office is located at 2500 Glenn Ave.  Sioux City, IA. Todd can be contacted at (712) 274-1045 to learn more about the entire portfolio of life insurance products offered by American Family Life Insurance Company, a member of the American Family Insurance Group, home office Madison, WI., 53783. Some products are not available in all states.

Keep the rage out of your driving

The bullies who drive on our nation’s roadways cause us to fear for our safety and, at times, even our lives. Are you an aggressive driver? Consider these questions:

• Do you tailgate slower vehicles to encourage them to speed up or get out of your way?
• Do you weave in and out of heavy traffic to “make better time?”
• Do you make inappropriate gestures, honk your horn or flash your headlights at drivers who are not meeting your standards?
• Do you push yellow lights to the point that they sometimes turn red before you are all the way through the intersection?

If your answer is yes to any of the above, you may want to rethink your driving behavior. The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates two-thirds of traffic fatalities are at least partly caused by aggressive driving. For your own safety and the safety of others, drive smart and don’t let the road bullies get to you.

Remember that you cannot control traffic, but you can control your reaction to it. Assume other drivers’ mistakes are not personal; we all have bad days. Be polite and courteous, even if the other driver is not.

If another driver challenges you, avoid eye contact and move out of the way. Driving is not a game, and you should never underestimate the other driver’s capacity for mayhem. Under no circumstances should you pull off on the side of the road to try and straighten out the situation.

Report aggressive driving behavior to the appropriate authorities by providing a vehicle description, license plate number, location and direction of travel.

In summary, keep your composure when driving. Don’t try to make others do what you want them to do, or retaliate against someone who’s driving recklessly. Courtesy is contagious.

Enjoy a safe summer!

Summer is a busy time when most people are “on the go.” It’s also a prime time for drownings, grill fires and home burglaries. Keep yourself and your family safe this summer by following these tips.

Dive into poolside precaution

¨       Never let children into your pool without an adult present. Even teenagers who are strong swimmers should always have a companion.

¨       Never leave children alone in the pool area, even for just a few seconds to answer the phone or check the stove.

¨       Keep rescue equipment such as a shepherd’s hook or life preserver at poolside. Also bring a portable telephone along when people are in the water.

¨       Remove all toys from the pool after swimming so children aren’t tempted to reach for them and possibly fall in. Don’t allow tricycles or wagons at poolside.

¨       Prevent young children from climbing up into an above-ground pool, even when it’s covered, by securing, locking or removing the steps or ladder.

¨       Check the applicable laws and ordinances in your area regarding fencing requirements for pools.

¨       As an extra precaution, always lock the pool area when no adults are present.

Barbecue your food, not your home

 

¨       Put your grill at least 15 feet from any building, and grill only on a flat surface that can’t catch fire. Do not grill on an apartment building balcony or deck.

¨       Never use gasoline, alcohol or kerosene to start your coals. Once the coals are on fire, glowing or smoldering, don’t put on additional lighter fluid.

¨       When you’re done cooking, soak the coals with water and close the grill lid and any vents tightly. If you have a gas grill, close the valve on the gas cylinder.

¨       Don’t move the grill or remove the coals for 48 hours, unless you can safely move the coals into a stainless steel pail.

¨       Be sure you have homeowners or renter’s insurance.

Safeguard your home and possessions

¨       Do not leave windows or patio doors open when you’re away. Also, be sure to close and lock your garage doors.

¨       Keep trees and shrubs trimmed, especially near doors and windows.

¨       Secure patio doors with a lock.

¨       Be sure to notify your neighbors if you’ll be gone for an extended period.

¨       Arrange for neighbors or friends to pick up newspapers and mail.

¨       Leave some shades up or curtains partially open so that the house looks occupied. Consider putting timers on your lamps and leave a radio playing.

¨       Arrange to keep your lawn mowed and maintained. Maybe ask a neighbor to park his/her car in your driveway. 

Underage drinking is risky business for homeowners.

Remember to play it safe and celebrate responsibly

Some parents enjoy planning celebrations for their high school-aged children, whether it’s for a birthday or school-related event like prom or graduation, or a team or club gathering. Unfortunately these celebrations can also mean underage drinking. Some adults believe if they supervise drinking of young people in their homes, that it’s a better or safer alternative to unsupervised parties.

But is it? You may be trading one type of risk for another, with potentially serious consequences.

Your homeowners insurance policy protects you from many instances of fire, burglary and weather-related storms and may also protect you from civil liability that results from accidents that occur on your property. But don’t assume your policy protects you from losses or civil liability that results from allowing the consumption of alcoholic beverages by an underage person on your property.

Many homeowners policies have a clause stating they won’t cover losses that occur in this situation. Laws vary from state to state; and, according to the Drug-Free Action Alliance, a statewide, non-profit agency working to prevent substance abuse, in some states you could be held liable even if you’re aware of drinking being done at another location other than your home, and do nothing to prevent it.

Allowing an underage drinking party could mean an accident or property loss that could result in crippling legal expenses, lawuits and monetary judgments that may have to come out of your pocket. Your insurance company may also decide to discontinue your policy. This is in addition to the burden of having to live with the guilt and shame of knowing an accident or injury occurred because of your poor decision.

Protect yourself – and the young people who may take part – by saying no to hosting underage drinking parties, and encourage the young people in your life to obey the law and celebrate responsibly.

Be sure to speak with your insurance agent to review the specifics of your homeowners policy, along with the terms and conditions that could affect your coverage.

The basics of auto insurance

Let’s face it, there’s a lot of financial risk involved when you drive a car. You could cause an accident or be the victim of an accident. You could veer off the road and hit a utility pole or strike a large animal. Or you could be hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance.

Auto insurance protects you from the financial risks you could face from a variety of circumstances. An auto insurance policy is comprised of a number of different coverages, and it’s important to understand how each of them works to protect your interests.

Here are some basic coverage terms everyone should understand when purchasing auto insurance:

·         Bodily injury liability coverage protects your assets if you are held responsible for an accident where other people are injured or killed.

·         Property damage liability coverage covers the costs of repairing or replacing the autos or other property of others, again for an accident in which you are determined to be liable. Liability coverage will also pay for legal costs associated with defending you against lawsuits related to accidents. Remember, the liability coverage limits you are required to carry under state law most likely fall far short of your assets, so be sure to have adequate coverage.

·         Collision coverage will pay to repair or replace your vehicle if you hit something else and no one else is at fault.

·         Comprehensive coverage protects your car from damage caused by a number of causes  other than an auto accident, including vandalism, fire, theft, flood, falling tree limbs, hail and collision with animals.

·         Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage insures you against losses caused by other drivers with little (underinsured) or no (uninsured) auto insurance. It protects you if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run driver or are struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian. It also provides coverage to your passengers, and those listed on your policy while riding in other cars or as pedestrians. (If you live in a “no-fault” state, your own insurance will cover your losses.)

·         Medical payments coverage or personal injury protection (PIP) covers various medical and/or funeral expenses for you and your passengers, as well as those listed on your policy while riding in other cars or as pedestrians.

Other variables to consider include gap coverage (the difference between the actual cash value of your car and the amount you owe if your car is totaled in an accident), towing/roadside assistance coverage, and rental car reimbursement (if you need a rental car while your car is being repaired after an accident, or even if your car is totalled).  All three are very valuable and highly recommended. 

Talk to your insurance agent about requirements for the state you live in, all the coverages available to you, as well as possible exclusions, deductibles and other potential costs. Together you can figure out a policy that best fits your needs and your budget.

There are good reasons why homeowners rates are rising.

After years of relative stability, rates for homeowners insurance are increasing across the country, including in our state of Iowa. Why the dramatic change?

It comes down to basic economics: Insurance companies are paying out significantly more in homeowners claims and expenses than they’re receiving in premium.

The gap between claim payments/expenses has existed for quite some time. Throughout the 1990s, however, rates remained relatively stable because insurance companies were able to partially offset these deficits with gains from investments.

Circumstances changed beginning in 2000. Claim payments continued to rise, caused primarily by soaring home repair, medical and litigation costs, as well as a large influx of storm claims. Meanwhile, a weakening stock market decreased investment revenue for insurers and private citizens alike.

This has made additional rate adjustments necessary to maintain an appropriate balance between claim payments/expenses and revenue. Without them, insurers would continue to lose money, which would eventually compromise their ability to pay future claims.

There are a number of things insurance companies do to help keep premium costs down. It’s not just a matter of raising rates. At American Family, we continually look at ways to be more efficient, fight insurance fraud and finance research on safe building materials and theft prevention.

There are also a number of things homeowners can do to control their premium costs:

¨       Consider higher deductibles – A higher deductible can lower your premium. Remember, if you choose this route, you will pay more out-of-pocket expenses if you suffer a loss and file a claim.

¨       Ask about available discounts – A premium discount may be available if you have a qualifying fire/security system installed in your home or if you have a new home. If you insure your home and auto with American Family, you may be able eligible for discounts on both of those policies.

¨       Prevent home losses/damage – Regular maintenance will make your home safer and less likely to suffer damage. Routinely check your home for fire, water and safety hazards. Safeguard your home against theft, too.

Decisions to increase rates are made only after careful deliberation of many factors. Changing rates over time keeps insurance companies financially strong so they’ll be ready when their policyholders need them most: when they have a claim.

Make an inventory of your home just in case

How much do you stand to lose if your home is damaged or burglarized? While the memories attached to the items in your home cannot be replaced, the actual contents of your household can be protected if you have homeowners insurance.

Creating and safely storing an inventory of your personal belongings can help you determine what was exactly damaged or stolen if such an event occurs. This will simplify the claim process and help ensure your settlement amount is appropriate.

 

A simple way to complete an inventory is to record the items of each room by category, noting the quantity, serial number, make and model, approximate date purchased and the purchase price. It’s helpful to supplement the inventory with photos or a videotape of entire rooms or close-ups of individual items.

Once you have recorded all of your belongings, add up the value of the contents of each room.
Then, store the completed inventory in a fireproof container or a place away from your home, such as a safe deposit box.

If your property sustains damage, take the following steps:

¨       Report the claim to your insurance agent as soon as possible. Some insurers like American Family also have a 24-hour phone number policyholders can use to report their claims.

¨       If the claim involves a theft, report the incident to your police department.

¨       Prepare a list of the damaged or stolen articles. Include a brief description of each item, including its age, current value, make, model and serial number if you have it. Make a copy of the list for your adjuster.

¨       Protect your property immediately against further damage or theft. For example, use plywood or tarps to cover broken windows and damaged rooftops.

¨        If your home is uninhabitable, make sure your agent and adjuster know where you can be reached. If you change locations, provide them the new phone numbers.

Know what to do when a tornado looms

The horror of a tornado is that it can strike at a moment’s notice, often leaving residents little time to react. That’s why it is so very important that you and your family know what do well before any potential danger.

When tornado conditions are right

Take shelter immediately, preferably in an in-home shelter or a designated area in your basement – away from windows or objects that could be picked up and thrown by wind. It’s a good idea to stay tuned to TV or radio so you’re aware when severe weather is possible. Listen for a tornado siren. Watch for a dark sky, hail, a loud roar and/or a funnel cloud. If you hear a warning or see signs a tornado could be coming your way, don’t wait to see a funnel cloud to take shelter.

If you live in a mobile home, evacuate immediately – before the storm reaches your home. Tornadoes can overturn, throw or crush mobile homes. If you have ample time, go to the nearest community shelter, friend’s home or other safe building.

During a tornado

Don’t open windows. According to the Institute for Business and Home Safety, opening windows invites wind to enter and blow the house up like a balloon. Plus, it wastes valuable time you could use to seek shelter. A sturdy table or desk can provide you protection during the storm.

After a tornado

Don’t use matches, lighters, appliances or light switches until you’re sure there is no gas leak. If you smell gas, the National Center for Environmental Health recommends shutting off the gas supply using a valve near the meter. Also shut off electricity; sparks could ignite the gas. Turn off the water supply. Arrange furniture so chairs and beds are away from windows, mirrors and picture frames. Place heavy or large items on lower shelves.

Beware of dog bites: Tips to keep you and your children safe.

There are tremendous responsibilities and potential liabilities that come with owning a dog. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports there are approximately 4.7 million dog bites per year, resulting in 800,000 injuries that require medical attention. Half of those injuries are to people under the age of 18.

Dog behavior is a serious concern for everyone. Insurance companies often pay civil judgments for dog bites that happen on their customers’ properties. Those payments affect insurance premiums that policyholders pay.

Dog bites cost the property/casualty insurance industry roughly $413 million in 2010. Since 2003, the cost of these claims has risen nearly 37 percent. When you consider those types of claims account for nearly one third of homeowner’s liability claims, it is important to do everything you can to prevent dog bites.

The Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. Humane Society offer the following tips on how to prevent dog attacks. Share this information with your loved ones for protection in a variety of situations:

For owners:

¨       Responsibility as a dog owner begins before the puppy or dog is brought home for the first time. Research dog breeds and select a dog suitable to your family and lifestyle. If you are buying a puppy, ask to meet the parents and observe the setting in which the young dog was raised.

¨       Train or socialize your dog. Don’t play aggressive games with your dog.

¨       Spay or neuter your dog.

¨       Seek professional advice if your dog starts to become aggressive, such as growling or nipping.

¨       Closely supervise children when around dogs. The size of a child may cause a dog to act in a dominant way toward a child.

For everyone:

¨       If a strange or threatening dog approaches, stand still. Don’t run or scream. Try to back against a tree or car. If you have time, climb on a car or up a tree. Then call for help. If the dog moves away, you can then move away carefully.

¨       If a dog knocks you down, lie on the ground with knees tucked to your chest and a fist over each ear. Remain very still and quiet.

¨       Don’t stare. Staring threatens dogs.

¨       Be aware that about 80 percent of dog bites occur in the victim’s home or at a friend’s home. These “friendly” dog bites account for the majority of treated dog bites.

Rental car insurance? You might already be covered.

If air travel plans are in your future, chances are good you’ll drive a rental car. When you meet the customer service representative of the rental agency, one of the first questions he or she is likely to ask is whether you want to buy the optional insurance.

What do you do? Your initial reaction may be to take the peace of mind that comes with the insurance. Especially when there is a line of impatient travelers waiting behind you, there’s the temptation to just get the transaction over with as quickly as possible. But before you cough up the daily insurance fee, measure your options carefully. You may not need to purchase additional coverage.

If you already have an auto insurance policy, that policy might cover your rental car. Additionally, if the car is rented with a major credit card, the credit card company often will cover cost of any damages incurred. This coverage normally only kicks in after your original insurance reaches its limit.

Even if you don’t own a car but regularly find yourself renting cars, you may be able to purchase a policy through your insurance agent that will help you avoid the costly rental company fees. Called a non-owner liability policy, this insurance generally costs a couple hundred dollars. For someone who rents fairly often, a non-owner liability policy can be cheaper than daily rental company insurance.

Before you take a trip involving a car rental, call your insurance agent and your credit card company to determine if you’re already insured … and to what extent. Nothing puts a damper on a vacation more than being left on the hook for thousands of dollars in rental car damages.

So next time you are renting a car, check your coverage first. You might already have peace of mind without giving up a piece of your wallet.