WINTER: Be Prepared, Not Surprised!
This winter has been one of the coldest and wintry in many years. Because it’s been a while, some of us have forgotten a few basic tips to protect ourselves from winter perils within our very own control. Here are a few countermeasures we can all take to prepare and avoid being surprised this winter.
AUTO:
- NEVER, NEVER, NEVER text while driving!
- Maintain a minimum safe following distance of two (2) seconds during Dry Daylight conditions.
ADD time for each of the following conditions – unfamiliar surroundings (+1 second), heavy traffic (+1 second), darkness (+1 second), rain (+1 second), snow (+2 seconds), icing (+3 seconds). - Cold weather shrinks air molecules. Check your tires for properly inflation to avoid low air pressure tire blowouts.
- Don’t leave your car unattended for morning/evening warm up to/from work/school. It’s against the law and your stolen car claim may get denied as a result.
- Clear frost and snow from ALL windows and run your window defrost to avoid creation of blind spots.
- Have your cars properly serviced for battery charge, antifreeze and tire tread to avoid a Roadside Assistance needs later.
HOME:
- Clean out those gutters. Fall’s leaves and sticks cause drain blockage which may result in your home’s attic
becoming the only source of relief. - If you’re going to be away for several days, consider turning off the water main to avoid supply in case of frozen pipe burst.
- Keep watch on dogs let out unattended to do their business. Dog bites are the cause of over $300,000,000 in home liability claims each year.
- Shovel, sweep and salt those slick drives, steps and sidewalks. Remember, you’re responsible for visitor safety while on your property.
- Use space heaters and candles safely, maintaining a 3 foot minimum distance from any ignitable objects.
- Clean out those Dryer vents and filters.
- Have all tree branches overhanging your home removed to avoid damage from falling due to weight of ice and snow.
- Have your furnace serviced and checked for proper operation and efficiency to avoid failure and the inconvenience of being displaced.
LIFE:
- Review your Life Insurance policies to make sure:
1) They’re still in force
2) They provide sufficient benefit for your survivors’ current financial situation
3) All Beneficiaries are correct and current and are aware of the protection you’ve put in place for their benefit
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Remember, it’s your assets as well as insurability we want to protect.
Luis Roque is a local Independent Agent who strives to help you to “Be Protected, Not Surprised. Get More Than You’re Already Paying For.” Roque Agency Insurance is located at… 150 Uptown Square, Suite C
Murfreesboro, TN 37129.
Roque Agency Insurance 
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