When The Wind Blows

Hurricane Earl is heading our way.  Are you prepared?

Here’s what you need to know about getting ready for a Hurricane.

Before

  • Understand the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. A hurricane watch means that a hurricane may occur within the next 24 to 36 hours. A hurricane warning means that a hurricane will probably strike your area within the next 24 hours.
  • Prepare a survival kit, including bandaids and medicines.
  • Plan your evacuation route in advance of the storm.
  • Close storm shutters and board up all windows.
  • Stock up on drinking water and non-perishable goods.
  • Have a supply of batteries and be sure you have flashlights and a portable radio in good working condition.
  • Review how to shut off utilities in an emergency with all family members.
  • Secure all outdoor objects or move them inside.
  • Secure your boat or move it to a safer place.
  • Fuel your car in case you must leave immediately.

During

  • Listen to the radio for important storm information and instructions.
  • If at home, stay inside and away from all windows, skylights and glass doors. Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed. The “eye” of the storm can pass quickly, leaving you outside when strong winds resume.
  • If you must evacuate, leave as soon as possible and be sure to tell someone outside of the storm area where you will be.

After

  • Stay tuned to the radio or television. If you have had to evacuate, return home only after authorities advise it is safe to do so.
  • Avoid downed power lines.
  • Beware and check for gas leaks or electrical system damage.
  • Make temporary repairs as necessary.
  • Promptly report the loss to Travelers using the toll-free claim reporting number.

Thank you, Travelers Insurance, for sharing these tips and looking out for us during this time!

See you all on the flip side.

Published in: on September 1, 2010 at 9:52 am  Comments (1)  

Tri-For-A-Cure in Maine

Tri-for-a-cure is this weekend at the SMCC Campus in So Portland. Several of our employees are participating, running, swimming and biking.  If you are in the area stop by on Sunday morning and applaud all the women participating in honor of loved ones and in support of raising money for the fight against breast cancer. This is an amazingly emotional event and one that we are so happy to contribute to.

Click on the link below to view more details about this event.

http://www.mainetriforacure.org/

Published in: on August 11, 2010 at 8:52 am  Leave a Comment  

Auto Theft And Comprehensive Coverage

The latest statistics are compiled and released. Where do you stand?

Literally, where do you stand?

Current news reports and news articles are indicating that auto thieves are hard at work although many others are out of work.  It’s being proven that your vehicle isn’t any more safe in your yard as at work, the shopping center or school.  Automobiles are being stolen from any place a thief can make it happen.

New Hampshire is reporting that if you pause for a stroll in the woods along their highways, you may come back to find someone else is enjoying your car.  You are then… left standing. Standing and wondering what to do next.  You need a ride home, you need to contact your insurance agent if you have comprehensive coverage and you need to call the police.  If you were traveling with kids, chances are you had iPods, game boys and other electronics in your vehicle too.  You will want to make a list of the items missing and report those to the police and insurance agent as well.

Certain vehicles are more susceptible to theft than others as indicated by this report by USA Today. http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2010-08-03-stolencars03_ST_N.htm.  If you have one of the vehicles mentioned, Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Corvette V06, Ford F250, Dodge Charger with a Hemi etc, you may want to keep a closer eye on your vehicle.  Keep valuables out of site and be sure the doors are locked and the keys are securely in your pocket when you park.  Don’t leave valuables out in the open that make your vehicle more exciting to steal.

Some vehicles have a tracking device installed which make the vehicle less fun for the thieves to steal.  Some vehicles are driven away from the scene and others are towed.  Some states have worse auto theft records than others.  It’s good to know what’s going on out there so that you take the proper precautions while traveling and while driving around your own town.

Vehicle theft is big business in some parts and your endeared and hard-earned newest model ride could be stripped down and parted out with in hours so it’s important to act fast if you find yourself left standing….in the parking lot… where you last saw your vehicle.

This might be a good time to call your insurance agent and review your coverage!

Published in: on August 3, 2010 at 10:30 am  Leave a Comment  
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Looking For A Value Added Employee Benefit?

Do you wish there was a way to expand the benefits package for your employees?  One that didn’t really cost you any money or time yet valuable enough that all employees would be interested in exploring?

We know how to do it!

We’ve got a great program that offers a discounted rate while maintaining superior home and auto and other personal insurance coverage and a competitive price!

It’s easy!

  • We meet directly with employees.
  • No minimum enrollment requirement.
  • You can add value to your benefits package at NO added expense.
  • Full-time, part-time and even retired employees could be eligible and the discount doesn’t need to be taken away in the future providing the policies remain active.
  • Employees are billed directly to their home or their checking accounts, NOT payroll deducted.

This program is a great way for you to give your employees a way to cut their personal expenses.  You could almost consider it a raise since they get to keep more of their money in their pocket!

Would your employees like to see if they could save on their insurance?

Whether you are a Business Owner, a Human Resources Representative or an employee, you should explore this program and start saving today!

Here Today To Insure Tomorrow

 

Published in: on July 16, 2010 at 10:27 am  Leave a Comment  
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Everyone Into The Pool!

It’s summertime in Maine and there’s no better place to be than in the pool, your own pool, a neighbors pool or the city pool.  It’s great to be able to just jump right in for a refreshing swim and escape the heat and humidity of the day.

Although swimming pools can offer a ton of summertime fun they can also be dangerous for children if you don’t take proper precautions. I know you’ve heard the rules before but let’s just take a few moments to review.

Pool Safety                                                

  • Public wading pools, in-ground pools and hot tubs have flat drain grates and/or a single main drain system that can cause a child or adult to get entangled below the surface of the water. Best to stay clear of the drain areas.
  • Never swim in a pool or hot tub that has a broken, loose or missing drain cover either.
  • Don’t take your eyes off your children when they are around water and have a phone nearby to call for help in an emergency.
  • If you own a pool, make sure it has four-sided fencing and a self-closing, self latching gate to prevent a child from wandering into the pool area.
  • Hot tubs should be covered and locked at all times when not in use.
  • From the start, teach children not to go near the water without an adult.
  • Teach your children to swim from an early age so that they are always able to provide that level of protection for themselves for their whole life.
  • Learn CPR and know how to respond in a water emergency.

Home Drowning Prevention Tips

Whether you have a pool or not, drowning is still a hazard around your home. Just think of the tub, toilet and a bucket of water and make sure you are aware of where your small children are at all times.

  • Always stay within an arms reach of your child when near the bathtub, toilets, pools, spas or buckets.
  • Let the phone ring, nothing is more important than your child during bath time.
  • Drain the tub immediately when bath time is over.
  • Empty all buckets, containers and kiddy pools immediately after use and store them upside down out of children’s reach.
  •  Keep toilet lids closed and use safety locks specifically designed to lock the lid in a down position.
  • Keep doors to bathrooms and laundry rooms closed to prevent very small children from entering and being exposed to water sources.
  • Don’t trust the baby bath ring, still hold your child every minute.

Thank you for taking the time to review these water safety rules. You can find more water rules and other safety information at the link below.
http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-resources-by-risk-area/drowning/open-water-safety-tips.html

This information is courtesy of Safekids.org.

We urge you to always go above and beyond to keep your children safe. Ask for help if you need it. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child and it’s a 24/7  job.  It’s also the best job you’ll ever have!

Take care and have a great summer!

Published in: on July 12, 2010 at 10:31 am  Leave a Comment  
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It Looks Like A Long, Hot Summer Ahead Of Us

Weathermen all over the east coast are calling for hot and humid days ahead. We call those the dog days of summer, when you just want to lay around on the floor all day like dog.

While it’s good to rest and relax and enjoy the summer heat, you need to keep in mind that your grass is either growing or browning while you are taking it easy.

Why Is This A Concern?

Fire hazard, my friend, fire hazard. Take a look around your neighborhood. Is your lawn brown or in need of a mow? How about your neighbors. Have they been gone for a couple of weeks vacation while their lawn shot up in the prior weeks sunshine and is now drying up in this sudden heat spell? If so, you may want to start-up the mower and take a spin around the lawn before you hit the rug with Fido for the rest of the day.

Feel free to mow your neighbor’s lawn too if they are away but before you do I suggest you call your professional insurance agent to verify your coverage. You wouldn’t want to be caught without liability coverage while mowing off your premises. Some policies have limitations if you are mowing for pay or to be a helpful neighbor.

Vacant Signs

If your neighborhood has a few empty homes and the yards are starting to look like they should be hayed  rather than mowed, it’s a fire hazard too!  It may be a good idea to have a neighborhood meeting and discuss taking turns mowing that abandoned or foreclosed upon property to keep your own property safer.

Don’t Invite Danger

That outdoor fire pit that is so inviting to your graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows is also a concern during this dry spell. Best to keep a bucket of water handy and try your best to keep sparks and flying embers to a minimum. Just one run away spark could cause quite a problem landing on a dry spot of your yard or that of your neighbors.

Water, Water And More Water

Another option to control the fire danger is to add a little water to your lawn. I know, the price of water coming and going is increasing and you’d like to keep costs down but really this dry spell won’t last forever and you want your home to so it may be worth it to you to turn on the sprinkler to both water the lawn and entertain the kids in the fresh outdoor Maine air.

Don’t wait too long to get out and enjoy the cool water from the sprinkler because before we know it we will be shoveling again!

If you enjoyed this blog, please rate it.  We appreciate your feedback!

Published in: on July 8, 2010 at 10:12 am  Leave a Comment  
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Don’t You Just Love The Ease And Convenience Of Summertime Food?

Grilling Safety

There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries and they can also melt the siding right off your house if you aren’t careful.
Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.

Safety Tips

  • Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
  • The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Keep children and pets away from the gill area.
  • Keep your grill clean by removing grease and fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
  • Never leave your grill unattended.

Charcoal Grills

  • There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use.  Charcoal chimney starters allow your to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
  • If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid.  Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
  • Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
  • There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire.  Be sure to use an extension cord designed  for outdoor use.
  • When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.  Note: Don’t rush this step.

Propane Grills

Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.  Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose.  A propane leak will release bubbles.  If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and the grill.  If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.  If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.  If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department.  Do not move the grill.

Facts

  • Fire Departments respond to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues each year, including 5,000 outside fires and 2,900 structure fires.
  • June and July are the peak months for grill fires.
  • Thirty-three percent (33%) of home grill structure fires start on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch.

The Holden Agency wants you to grill safe and enjoy the carefree days of summer!

These tips are brought to you by the Concord Group Insurance Company by way of  NFPA Public Education Division 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169.  www.NFPA.org/education and www.concordgroupinsurance.com

If you like this blog, please rate it!  We appreciate your comments.

 

Published in: on June 29, 2010 at 9:38 am  Leave a Comment  
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Have You Touched Your Oil Tank Lately?

Please don’t!

The environmental hazards lurking inside your homes oil tank could erupt into an overwhelming clean up project in your basement.

Only a licensed Oil Burner Technician should be touching your tank and the reasons are listed in the link below from the State of Maine website.

http://www.maine.gov/dep/rwm/publications/isyourta.htm

In short

  • If your tank is over 25 years old it’s time to talk about a replacement.
  • If the tank legs are rotting, your tank could tip and fall and split open.
  • If your tank has rust, wet or brown spots, it’s probably weakening from the inside. The simple act of touching it could cause a leak or a hole large enough for your valuable heating oil to spill out into your basement. Dirt floor or cement floor, you’ve got a hazardous situation to contend with.  Don’t forget about your sump pump too.  If oil leaks out of the tank towards your sump hole you could end up pumping that oil out into the city sewer line or your own leach bed where it could recycle into your well.

Be aware

Being a homeowner comes with certain responsibilities. Whether your oil tank is inside or outside you must keep an eye on it and be sure it’s in good condition and protected from falling objects that could damage it.

Many leaks and spills are caused by corrosion of buried piping and improperly installed outdoor tanks so it’s important to keep a watchful eye on your equipment and not let replacement and update of these items go too long. 

The cost of the heating oil and the cost to the environment are just too important to overlook the need for proper maintenance of your oil tank.

If you like this article, please rate it!  We appreciate your comments.

Published in: on June 23, 2010 at 8:51 am  Leave a Comment  
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Outdoor Lighting Can Be A Great Deterrent

Summer is a great time to stay up past your bedtime, sit on the deck and take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood before calling it a night.

Sounds great doesn’t it? The problem is once you are all snug as a bug under the covers with visions of sugar plums there is a whole other group of night owls prowling around looking for opportunities.  Don’t let your house be their good fortune.  Taking simple steps such as installing lighted motion detectors around your property can greatly increase your success rate at scaring off the little buggers.

Another good tactic is to leave a light on, say in the kitchen, so it looks like someone in the home is up and awake.

Accent lighting is another good addition. It adds beauty to your property for others to enjoy as they ride by and it gives a little extra light to your foundation area. These lights are inexpensive and can add just a bit more security to your property

An actual burglar alarm wired to call the police is a great idea if you have really cool stuff in your home or if you live in an area commonly hit by these such opportunists.

Location of your home matters too. If you are the last house on the left, backed up to woods that can be used as a get away spot you are more likely to be a target than if you live on the corner lot of a busy road. So knowing this you can take more precautions as mentioned above.

Your homeowners insurance will reward you by preventing claims. Two of those rewards include an alarm discount and avoidance of a claim surcharge.

Dogs offer another level of security and any dog will do. No need to have Cujo when Benji will suffice and be a great buddy to your family members.

Window style air conditioners can create an opportunity for easy entrance to your home so be sure you have taken proper steps to secure the window and prevent further opening of the sash. A nice little stick will do the trick, for your window and sliding door, and you could even add a stick-on alarm that would activate if the window is tampered with. You can find these alarms at your local hardware store or the big box stores. They run on batteries and make and ear-piercing screech when activated. An on/off switch saves your battery life and they are easily removed or repositioned when no longer needed in the cooler months.

A neighborhood watch program is also a wonderful idea.  Let your neighbors know it’s okay to call the police if anything strange is going on at your house, even during the daytime. 

Lastly, don’t tell everyone on Facebook when you are going away.  You really don’t know friends of your friends, friends and who they know.   Take pictures and upload them to the world when you get back home, that is good enough!  Make sure your kids aren’t telling your travel plans on their social media sites too.

There you have it, a few ways to add pizzaz and security to your home. A little prevention now will save you the hassle later if you are the target of a future break in.

If you enjoyed this blog, please rate it!   We appreciate your feedback.

Published in: on June 18, 2010 at 9:05 am  Leave a Comment  
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Oil Spill In Your Own Backyard

As we watch the results of the oil spill down south I can’t help but think about the possibility of an oil spill in our own area.

Pollution is an exposure everywhere we go and in all aspects of our personal lives. Did you know that an oil spill can happen at your home? What about while driving your car or your boat?

Are you aware of the exposures and how your insurance policies will respond?

For sure, prevention is the best first step to controlling your exposure and legal responsibility to pollutants.

At home, probably your largest exposure is your heating oil tank. Chances are it’s in your basement. If you have a dirt floor you should put your oil tank on a cement slab. Oil tanks don’t last forever and if you spring a leak you are looking at needing to have the dirt in your basement cleaned up properly. You wouldn’t want that oil to leach into your well or our public water system. Remember, it came from your house….it’s your responsibility. Keep an eye on the condition of your oil tank. If you see any signs of rotting or drips starting call for a replacement! You want to catch that before a big hole lets go and you lose your oil and then have a sticky mess to clean up.  Hopefully, your oil tank is sitting on top of a nice solid sheet of cement. Containment is the key to easy clean up.


What about your sump pump? Can oil on your cement floor work its way into the sump pump and out of our house? Be sure this isn’t the case since you don’t want to be responsible for cleaning up the city!

Your automobile is probably pretty safe although you should be aware of any leaks from underneath your car. Look for dark spots on your garage floor or on your driveway. Any areas of leaks should be cleaned up and the material should be properly disposed of so as not to spread the pollution.  You should also make an appointment with a car repair service to prevent future drips and spills.

Boats, on the other hand, since there is a good chance you are fueling by hand from a can or dockside over the water, you want to be really careful of every move you make. A can of gas and oil dropped into the water can be quite a thing to explain let alone clean up.

Another source of pollution with a boat is when boats are damaged and sink. You can’t just look the other way and swim to shore. It’s your boat and your responsibility to remove it from the bottom of the body of water. Check to see how your boat insurance coverage might handle this exposure, coverage can vary from company to company.

Same is true with recreational vehicles. If you drive your ATV or snowmobile into the lake, you need to remove it. Insurance policies on these toys may have coverage built-in to absorb the expense of cleaning up after an accident. Just one more reason to have these items insured. Be sure you know your coverage and your exposure.

Plug the leaks, secure the tanks and take precautions everywhere you.  You never know when the driver ahead of you at the gas station is going to drive away with the hose still in their tank!

Published in: on June 15, 2010 at 2:10 pm  Leave a Comment  
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