Why Insurance Agents Worry About Their Clients: Hotel Safety Tips

In my blog yesterday we talked about the holidays fast approaching and the highway travel that would be most likely taking place and some ways to be sure your reach your destination and return home safely. Today lets talk about when you actually arrive. If you are staying in a hotel there are some very important safety precautions you will want to take to be sure you and your family are protected.  Even if you think you know the area and you feel 'safe', you can not be too careful.  Crime is on the rise.

Before your stay, know your hotel:  Don't be afraid to call and ask questions before you make your reservation.  Select a hotel that has installed modern electronic guest room locks. Be aware of your hotels surroundings and location.  If you are visiting a foreign country, be aware of the security situation there.  Call ahead and make sure the front desk is staffed 24 hours a day. Jewelry, luggage and valuables should be photographed before your trip.  Be sure your cell phone works even if there is a phone in your room.

Once you arrive, be aware of your surroundings:  Immediately familiarize yourself with the fire escape route. Ask the front desk what number should be dialed in case of emergency.   Be aware of anyone listening in on your conversation as you check in. Don't let the front desk associate publicize your room number.

During your stay, be on guard:  Keep your room key, wallet, flashlight and cell phone on your nightstand. Check the locks on doors and windows as soon as you arrive. At night, use the main entrance.  Keep cash, credit cards and checks in separate pockets or areas of your purse. Never open your door to someone unless you are sure of their identity and expecting them.

Below is an infographic offering more safety tips before and during your stay.  You should also check with your insurance agent to be sure your belongings will be covered.  Some homeowners or renters policies provide coverage anywhere in the world, some in the US only and there is often limitations for jewelry.

If you would like a free review of your insurance policy, please visit us on the web or give us a call at one of our three locations.

Black Friday vs Cyber Monday

Is anyone else terrified of the Black Friday festivities that are about to commence? I have heard that some people turn selfish and greedy during the shopping process. I decided to attend Black Friday a few years ago because there was a bargain I just HAD TO HAVE.  Even though I was well aware that it is known as the busiest shopping day of the year.  I was faced with elbow to elbow crowds in every store and mall I dared to venture in.   I saw people pushing, shoving, even grabbing... it was horrible.

I promised myself I will never brave Black Friday shopping again. This year the stores will be open for early savings on Thanksgiving as well.  I think that is going too far.  It is mostly the large chains of retail stores that have decided to open, like Walmart, Target etc.  They will reap the rewards by getting some extra revenue they were not able to collect in prior years.  The employees will really suffer, instead of enjoying a day off with their families they most likely are being forced to work.  Cyber Monday offers a safer, more civil shopping experience that can be enjoyed from home, local coffee shop, or any other place with internet. Today’s infographic offers some interesting stories and information about Cyber Monday and Black Friday. Good luck to all you brave shoppers out there, get those deals and stay strong! [via]

reprinted in parts from dailyinfographic.com

Make sure all your purchases are covered properly, give us a call for a free review of your renters or homeowner policy or for a free quote.

Have you ever been victim to a frivolous lawsuit?

Did you know that included in many insurance policies is liability coverage.  There are many different types of policies and liability coverage.  Your homeowner or renters policy usually provides personal liability.  This type of liability is very broad and covers "you" anywhere.  Most people think that the liability coverage provided on this type of policy only protects you if someone gets hurt on the property.  Actually, it is much broader than that.   This is the type of liability coverage I am going to focus on today.  Here is some more specific information, in hopefully easy to understand language:

Personal Liability:  Found on  your homeowners or renters policy.  You must read your specific policy language for specifics of what is covered or not covered.  Who is covered is also defined in your policy language.  However, in most cases "YOU" are a named insured and any resident relatives.  Also, in most cases the policy language states that they will pay all sums up to the amount shown on the declaration page which anyone we protect becomes legally obligated to pay as damages because of a personal injury or property damage resulting from an occurrence during the policy period.  

A good example is if you are in the supermarket and you accidentally hit someone or perhaps their vehicle with your shopping cart.  If you are sued, your insurance company will hire and attorney, investigate, and if necessary go to court and pay any claims up to the limit on your policy.

If your son or daughter, who lives with you, is playing in the yard and accidentally knocks a ball through a window - a neighbors house or car, again you will be protected.

Here is the most important thing I want you to know about this coverage and the least known:

Personal liability coverage is the LEAST expensive coverage on  your policy. Often times $100,000 worth of coverage is automatically included in your premium. Did you know that usually for $20-$30 approximately more a year you can make that $1,000,000.  

Please contact us if you would like a free review of your current home or renters policy, even if you are with another agent or if you would like to increase your coverage.

You can also contact us on the web and get a free homeowner quote or visit us at one of our three locations.

Swimming Pool & Spa Safety Tips

I know you may be wondering why I would be offering swimming pool and spa safety tips when the low temperatures have been in the 20's in Central NY lately.  The fact of the matter is now is the perfect time to offer these up for your review!  The swimming pool most likely is not being used at this time of year (unless it is indoor) and that makes it very convenient to correct any deficiencies before the high season arrives.  Also now is the time of year when outdoor tubs and spas are used the most!

Every year the CPSC reports that an estimated 300 children under the age of five drown in swimming pools and spas. And more than 3,000 children in that same age bracket are treated in hospital emergency rooms after sustaining submersion injuries.

Before you prep your swimming pool or spa for summer activities take a moment to read through the following safety tips.

General Pool Safety

• Enclose with a 4 foot fence around all 4 sides. Enclose your pool or spa area on all 4 sides with a fence that is at least 4 feet tall. If your house makes up one side of your fence, install secure locks that are out of reach of children and install alarms. It only takes a moment for a child to wander into danger.
• Remove covers completely. When the time comes to uncover your swimming pool, take the cover completely off. A child can easily become trapped in the portion of the cover that is not removed. 
• Install self closing gates. Make sure all gates leading to the pool area are self closing and self latching, with the latches high enough to be out of the reach of children. 
• Move tables and chairs. Keep all tables and chairs that are outside the enclosed pool area away from the fence to keep children from climbing into the pool area. 
• Have proper rescue equipment. Keep rescue equipment – a shepherd’s hook and life ring – near the pool and in good condition. 
• Keep phone close. Keep a phone near the pool whenever it is occupied. You don’t want to leave young swimmers unattended for even a few seconds while you run to answer the phone. It is also crucial to have a phone near the pool in case of emergency.
• Never let children swim unsupervised. Knowing how to swim does NOT mean children are safe in the water. Even children on swim and dive teams have drowned while swimming unsupervised. Never leave children unattended in or near a pool or spa.
• Know CPR. Make certain everyone who is watching over children in the pool knows CPR. 
• Educate babysitters. Go over your pool safety rules with all babysitters whether or not the children will be swimming while in their care. Also, insist that your babysitters know CPR.
• Practice “Touch Supervision.” Practice “touch supervision” with children under five years of age. This means children are always within an arm’s reach when in or around the pool. 
• Require swimming ability. Never allow children over four years of age in your pool or spa if they don’t know how to swim unless they are accompanied by a parent. Children under four should never be allowed in the pool or spa without a parent.
• Don’t use inflatable swimming aids. Never use inflatable swimming aids – water wings, float tubes, water mattresses, etc. – as a substitute for a certified life vest or floatation device. Be aware that inflatable swimming aids can lead to a false sense of security. 
• Remove toys. Remove all toys from the pool or spa after swimming. Children might try to reach for toys in the water and fall in. Putting them in a closed bin or small storage unit will keep them out of sight and reduce the risk of children going into the pool area to get them. 

Avoid Drain Entrapment

Drain suction can be powerful enough to trap an adult underwater. Keep children safe by following these drain safety tips.

• Keep drains and drain covers in excellent condition. Loose, broken or missing drain covers pose a serious drowning threat. 
• Keep children away. Never allow children to go near drains or suction outlets. This is especially dangerous in spas and shallow pools. According to CPSC, “children’s public wading pools, other pools designed specifically for young children, and in-ground spas that have flat drain grates and single main drain systems pose the greatest risk of entrapment.” Anything from hair, to body parts, to jewelry and bathing suits can become caught on a drain cover or entrapped in the drain.
• Have your pool and/or spa inspected. The CPSC recommends that all pool and spa owners contact a licensed professional engineer to regularly inspect drains and covers to make sure they are P&SS Act compliant. They recommend contacting “state or local officials to determine who is qualified in your area.” 

Enjoying the water is a wonderful way to escape the heat of summer. Follow these safety tips and have a safe, enjoyable summer.

Visit us on the web or contact us at one of our three locations for a free review of your insurance.

Cell Phone Safety - Driving Home the Importance

These days, it’s hard to find someone who does not have a cell phone.  Cell phones can be invaluable for those business professionals who spend a lot of time out of the office, or for anyone who wants the added peace of mind knowing they can call for help in an emergency.

Are there laws limiting the use of cell phones while driving?

New York state prohibits the use of cell phones while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway. Violators charged for using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle can face a fine of up to $100. Hands-free cell phones, however, are permitted.

In 2013, several changes have been made to the law.  Now you can face up to 5 driving points. If you are a probationary or junior driver you could be looking at a suspension for 60 days and if it happens a second time revocation.  The maximum fines have been increased to $150 for 1st offense,$200 for 2nd offense, and third $400 and lets not forget the surcharge...$93.

Familiarize yourself with your phone

Be sure you review all the literature that comes with your phone.  Understand how to use its many features—including speed dial, re-dial and hands-free options.

Many manuals are available for free online.

Be aware of your surroundings and road conditions

If you find yourself in hazardous driving conditions-whether traffic-or weather-related—let your voice mail system pick up the call.  A few minutes of paying attention, and pulling over in a safe location, could make a huge difference in your safety and the safety of those around you..

Are there laws limiting the use of portable electronic devices used for text messaging or transmitting electronic data while driving?

Effective Nov. 1, 2009, New York state prohibits the use of electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway.

Portable electronic devices include hand-held cell phones, but also include PDAs, laptop computers, pagers, broadband personal communication devices and electronic games.  Violators charged for using an electronic device while operating a motor vehicle can face a fine of up to $150.

Stay calm on the phone and on the road

Don’t use driving time to engage in stressful or emotional conversations.  They can distract you from driving safely and sensibly, even if you are using a hands-free phone.

Cell phones can be an invaluable business tool or your lifeline in a real emergency.  But, remember, when you’re behind the wheel, your most important responsibility is safe driving.

There are new penalties that just went into effect for commercial drivers effective October 28, 2013 - click here for our free report : FREE REPORT FOR MOTOR CARRIERS & COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DRIVERS

For more information visit us on the web at www.tiains.com or contact us at one of our three locations.

Reprinted in parts with permission from PIA Management Services Inc.

Prevent Water Damage Caused By Winter Ice Dams

What is an Ice Dam?

In the winter a warm attic can melt snow on the roof causing water to run down and re-freeze at the edge of the roof where its colder.  If ice builds up it becomes an ‘ice dam’ that blocks water from draining, so the water is forced under the roof covering and into the attic or down inside the walls causing water damage.

How to prevent Ice Dams?

The best way to prevent ice dams is to maintain a cold roof.  Use sufficient insulation in the attic to keep the inside warm air from getting into the attic and warming the roof.  Also, maintain a cool, well –ventilated attic space that will not allow the roof to warm up.

Is there coverage ? 

To obtain coverage for this kind of leakage, not directly the result of damage to the roof by wind or the weight of snow, you would need an all-risks-not-excluded type of policy.  It is often referred to as an HO-3 or special form.

What to do if you get an ice dam?

First, take immediate steps to prevent further damage and contact our agency.  We will verify your coverage and give you instructions for preparing your claim.
Generally, you’ll be asked for repair estimates for structural damage and a list of items that will need repair or replacement.  Depending on the amount of damage, an appraiser from your insurance company may need to see the damage.  As with any insurance claim, keep all receipts.
Using a long handled snow puller, pull the snow from the roof, back just a few feet from the edge of the eaves before ice has a chance to form.  By simply removing the snow along the edge of the roof, you will give melting water a chance to drain from the eaves and prevent the formation of ice dams that  may damage your roof.
DO NOT GET ON THE ROOF TO REMOVE SNOW BUILDUP.  This is dangerous and you could easily damage the roofing material, resulting in leaks when it rains.

Please contact us, on the web or at one of our three locations, if you would like to know if you have this coverage on your existing homeowner policy - even if you are not a current customer we are happy to provide FREE insurance reviews.

This information is reliable and accurate, but we can not guarantee prevention or that the corrective measures will alleviate damages.  Always consult an experienced contractor or other expert to determine the best preventative and corrective action.

Teens Behind The Wheel

Tanner Insurance Agency, Inc. cares about you and your family.  With a new teenage driver in the household, we would like you to consider some important facts so you can help your teenager become a safe driver.

The Statistics:

Young drivers, in the age group 16-20, have one of the highest fatality rates of all drivers.  In fact, motor vehicle related injuries are by far the leading public health problem among teenager today.  In 2005 in the US 5,288 teenagers died from crash related injuries, and 61% of teenage passenger deaths occurred in crashes which another teen was driving.

Five Principal Reasons Contributing to Teen Driving Problems:

1. Distraction
2. Speeding
3. Drinking
4. Seat Belts
5. Weather

What’s A Parent To Do?

• Choose vehicles for safety,  not image.  Ensure the car has airbags and anti-lock brakes

• Provide new drivers with plenty of supervised driving practice, even after they have their license. Including night driving and hazardous road conditions

• Mandate safety belt usage

• Restrict number of passengers.  Crash rates increase sharply when a teen has passengers especially other teens.

• Emphasize that safe driving requires your teen’s full attention. Distractions like text messaging will greatly increase their risk of motor vehicle related injury

• Discuss and reinforce responsible driving behavior with teenagers.

Download our FREE Parent - Teen Driving Contract - Click Here

Visit us at www.tiains.com  or contact us at one of our three locations.

How Safe Is Your Heating?

The right way to use alternative heating sources when fending off old man winter….

The best defense may be maintenance of your home’s heating system. But, if you decide to give alternative heating a try, make safety a top priority.  The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) suggests: 

• Look for products tested by Underwriters Laboratory (UL).
• Buy models with automatic shut-off features and heat element guards
• Maintain a 36-inch clearance between the heater and combustible materials, such as bedding, furniture, wall coverings or other flammable items. 
• Do not leave a heater unattended.
• Check every electrical cord for fraying and cracking.  If one looks worn, replace it before using.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in several parts of the house.
• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at least twice a year and make sure to test them as well.

Other safety suggestions:

•  Never use a kerosene heater indoors.
• Never use electric or gas stoves (ovens) to heat the home.  They are not intended for that purpose and can cause fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If using a wood fireplace, have inspected annually by a professional chimney sweep 
• When using a gas fireplace, keep the glowing embers and logs clean; inspect and clean the air circulation passages and fan; avoid obstructing the vents.

Visit us online at www.tiains.com or contact us at one of our three locations for more information.

Snowmobile Registration & Insurance

It’s almost that time of year again! Time for snowmobiling.  Here is some helpful information from the NYS Office of Parks and Recreation and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Display of Registration:

Registration numbers are permanently assigned to a snowmobile when it is registered for the first time.  These numbers stay with the machine from owner to owner until it is destroyed or permanently removed from the state.  DMV provided registration number decals must be displayed on both sides of the cowling of the sled at all times.  The cowling is defined as the forward portion of the sled surrounding the engine and clutch assembly.  Any display position behind the sled cowling (tunnel or seat area) or on the windshield is illegal and could result in an expensive citation for violation of the registration law.

Insurance Requirements:

All snowmobiles operated on any part of a roadway or shoulder of a highway in NYS must be covered by minimum liability insurance.  NYS Parks law requires snowmobilers to carry liability coverage in the minimum amount of $25,000 for an accident involving one person, 50,000 for an accident involving two or more persons, and $10,000 property damage from one accident.  These are bare minimum limits of insurance and are not recommended .   Proof of Insurance must be carried by the snowmobiler and must be displayed upon request of any magistrate, law enforcement officer, or anyone who has suffered personal injury or property damage as a result of the snowmobilers actions.

Trailers and Trailer Registration:

Trailers manufactured specifically for snowmobiles are usually the best choices.  Your tow vehicle should be big enough and have enough power to handle the trailer easily or you will put yourself and your snowmobiles in a very dangerous situation.  All trailers operated on NYS public highways must be registered, inspected and display a license plate with an annual validation tag.  The vehicle used to tow the trailer must be insured.  You must provide the DMV with all required items to receive a valid registration and license plate for your trailer.  Custom built trailers must meet all equipment requirements of section 375 of the vehicle and traffic law and must be assigned a VIN number by the DMV.  Contact your county’s weights and measures office for local weighing stations.

Snowmobile  insurance is generally fairly inexpensive and something we can do quickly.  Visit us on the web or give us a call at one of our three offices for a quote!

For more information about what is needed to register your sled visit : http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/

Winter Driving Safety Tips

Some say it is going to be a rough winter.  I have lived in NY all my life (which is over 4 decades) and so I am used to it.  However, not all of us are.  Here is some advice for those not experienced in driving in the winter snowy months.  The best advice for driving in bad weather is not to drive at all if you can avoid it.  If you have to drive make sure your car is prepared, and you know how to handle road conditions.

Start With A Checkup:

· Check ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses, and belts

· Change and adjust spark plugs

· Check air, fuel and emission filters

· Inspect the distributor

· Check the battery

· Check tires for air, sidewall wear, and tread depth

· Check antifreeze levels and the freeze line

Necessary Equipment:

An emergency situation on the road can arise at any time and you must be prepared.  In addition to making sure you have the tune up, a full tank of gas and fresh antifreeze you should also carry the following items in your trunk:

· Properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod-type jack, tow and tire chains

· Shovel, bag of salt or kitty litter, woolen blanket

· Jumper cables, tool kit, non perishable food items, hard candy etc.

· Working flashlight and extra batteries, two flares

 If You Become Stranded:

· Do not leave your car unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to possible help, and are certain you will improve your situation.

· To attract attention, light two flares and place one at each end of the car at a safe distance away.  Hang a brightly colored cloth from your antenna.

· If you are sure the car’s exhaust pipe is not blocked, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so depending upon the amount of gas in the tank.

· To protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia use the woolen items and blankets too keep warm.

· Keep at least one window open slightly. Heavy snow and ice can seal a car shut.

· Eat a hard candy to keep your mouth moist

For more safety  information visit the National Safety Council website at http://www.nsc.org

We offer discounts for reduced use vehicles as well - those vehicles only driven during winter or summer months.  Visit us on the web at www.tiains.com for a free quote or contact us at one of our three locations!

The Car Accidents You Don’t Think About

Every year, tens of thousands of children are rolled over, caught in power windows, and even unintentionally left in vehicles to die.  But these incidents are preventable as they are upsetting.  This is what every parent needs to know now.

· Never leave children alone in the car.  A recent survey by the National Safe Kids Campaign found that 20% of parents ages 18-24 considered it ok to leave kids unattended in a car.  What’s more 1/2 the parents surveyed said they don’t always lock cars parked at home.  Kids ‘N Cars, a San Francisco-based non profit, has compiled more than 1200 cases in which kids were injured while left alone in cars.  Besides putting a car in motion, children have also been burned by lighters, injured by windows, and trapped in trunks.  One in four cases was fatal.

· Store your car keys in a secure place.  Children pay close attention to what you do and know full well what those keys are for and how to use them.  Keep your keys inaccessible to your kids.

· If you have a trunk, use it.  Most people don’t understand the violence of a crash, If you are going 35 miles per hour and get in a crash, everything in your car is still going 35 miles per hour until it hits something.  That something could be you or your child.  Partners for Child Passenger Safety says that 15% of kids in a collision come into contact with things inside the care.  These include loose object, other occupants, even dogs. Store all loose objects even groceries or clothes in the trunk.

· Use a booster seat.  Only 5% of kids who should be in belt-positioning booster seats are actually using one, says principal investigator of Partners for Child Passenger Safety.  But standard seat belts are not designed for kids, and lap belts alone have the potential to be even more harmful.  A child who is restrained only by a lap belt (or who has pushed the shoulder belt behind his back because its uncomfortable) often gets injured when his head slams into his own knees or the back of the front seat. For seat belts to operate properly, a child over 40 pounds must be in a booster seat, which elevates him enough so the belt crosses his shoulder and hips in the right place.  Kids generally need that seat until they weigh 80 pounds.

· Don’t breastfeed while in the car.  Children who are unrestrained in a car become projectiles in a crash and are often ejected from the vehicle says SafetyBeltSafe USA, a public-service group based in CA.  A child is going to hit something or someone in the car or worse you could crush your own child as you try to hold on to him. If your child is hungry or fussy, stop driving and find a safe place to park before you calm her.  Don’t try pulling over on the highway shoulder, collisions occur there all the time, find a rest area or parking lot.  Never sit in the front seat holding your baby, and never put an infant car seat in the front seat.  If your air bag discharges your child could be killed.

For more tips: http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/safety/car

Visit us on the web www.tiains.com

Halloween Safety

Are you going to take your children trick or treating this year?  If yes, we suggest a community sponsored event like a mall, school, party etc.  Door to door in today's day in age is really not safe anymore- especially without an adult or parent present.

I found this great acronym on the CDC website and thought I would share to help keep our trick or treaters safe this year:

Going trick-or-treating?

	Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be short, soft, and flexible.
	Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
	Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
	Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit the amount of treats you eat.
	Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always WALK and don't run from house to house.
	Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.
	Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.
	Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
	Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
	Wear well-fitting masks, costumes, and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips, and falls.
	Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
	Enter homes only if you're with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Don't stop at dark houses. Never accept rides from strangers.
	Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Parents please be sure to examine your children's candy before they consume ANY.  Dispose of any unwrapped candy, apples, etc anything that is not in its original packaging or wrapper.  Examine the wrapped candy for tampering.  Discard any candy with torn or missing wrappers.  Homemade treats also should be discarded unless you know the person who made them.  Homemade treats can make a person sick, even if it is not intentional.  Some hospitals also open their doors to allow candy to be closely examined through and X-ray machine to check for pins, razors, etc.  Lastly, it is important to smell the candy too, a strange odor can also be an indicator, promptly discard any foul smelling items in your bag.  Here is a great article with more specific information: Candy Examination.

For more information visit us online at www.tiains.com.

Disaster Preparedness

I recently came across the reality show Doomsday Preppers on the National Geographic Channel.  I have to admit I was hooked well for a hour or so.   Some people take this to the extreme - or so it seems anyway. However, It made me stop and think.  I thought about what I would have or do if I suddenly had no power for more than a few hours.  I would have no water, no can opener, no stove, no microwave. I have a family and just to be safe I started taking a few simple precautions.  Not building an underground shelter but setting a side a few simple supplies in case my family and I should need them.

Travelers Insurance has a wealth of helpful information on their website and anyone with an internet connection can access it.  There are several other sites available...some perhaps not so reputable.  I would stick to Insurance companies, and government sites like the CDC  and of course the Department of Homeland Security  and lastly FEMA .

If you don't want to read up, here are a few simple things you can do:

1) Get a couple of gallon jugs of spring water at your next trip to the store.  They are usually less than $1 each.  They suggest a gallon of water per person per day.  

2) Stock up on extra can goods (already cooked) like beans, soup, raviolis, fruit, etc.  The best way is to purchase them with the pull tab tops.

3) Non-electric can opener

4) Portable battery operated radio

5) Batteries

6) Blanket (ideally one for every person in the household)

7) Matches in a zip lock bag

8) First aid kit

9) Flashlight (rechargeable that do not need batteries is best)

10) Dust masks, these are really inexpensive and can be purchased at even the dollar store

11) Baby wipes, garbage bags and twist ties

12) Infant formula, diapers, baby food

13) Prescription medications, vitamins, and glasses

14) Some basic tools, wrench or pliers, screwdriver, hammer, utility knife

Of course there are lots of variations on this and you can find them by checking out the links I provided.

I gathered as much as I could and threw it in a backpack.  Hopefully I will never need to use this in my lifetime, but I am prepared at least for a couple days.

If you have questions or need more information go to www.tiains.com or stop into one of our three locations. We would be happy to print you out a checklist to help you be prepared.

Workers Compensation Insurance for the Construciton Insdustry & Contractors

In October of 2010, the New York Construction Industry Fair Play Act took effect.  The law created a definition specifically for the construction industry as to who was an 'employee'.  There will also now be penalties for employers who fail to properly classify the employee.

Here is how you determine whether someone is an independent contractor. (They must meet all three of the criteria below):

(1) Free from control and direction in performing the job, both under contract and in fact.

(2) Performing services outside of the usual course of business for the company and;

(3) Engaged in an independently established trade, occupation or business that is similar to the service they perform.

In the past the company that hired the subcontractor used to have to pay for workers compensation coverage for all monies paid to the subcontractor but in a lessor expensive class code used solely to identify subcontractors.  Now if they don't meet the criteria above the monies paid will all be put into the governing class code on the policy.  For carpentry or roofing this could be VERY expensive bill at the end of the year.

There are SEVERE penalties for employers who violate the newly enacted law.

Today, most companies that have a workers' compensation policy in place will require that any person they hire as a subcontractor also has their own insurance.

You can read about the Fair Play Act here:  http://www.labor.ny.gov/formsdocs/wp/P738.pdf

Here is a poster also provided by NYS Department of Labor: http://www.labor.ny.gov/formsdocs/ui/IA999.pdf

If you are interested in more information or a worker's compensation quote, please feel free to check out our website at www.tiains.com or stop by one of our three locations.

Contractors and Fall Protection

This has become a major issue for Contractors in the State of NY.  Fall claims have driven up the cost of insurance and a lot of standard insurance carriers in NY are no longer writing contractors that have a height exposure.  This applies to carpenters, electricians, heating and air conditioning contractors and commercial snowplowing just to name a few.  It is not so much the fact the insurance companies even end up having to pay out anything on these types of claims.  However, the insurance companies still have to hire and pay an attorney, go to court and then pay any required claims.  This could take years to finalize and cost insurance companies hundreds of thousands of dollars just in attorney fees.

If you have had continuous insurance and have a good claims history and have a safety plan in place there is a good chance you can still get insurance with one of the standard carriers in NY. 

Following are some resources to develop your own safety plan:

http://www.osha.com/store/written-safety-plans.html

http://www.ehso.com/sampleplans.php

http://freeonlineoshatraining.com/index.html

https://safetyskills.com/

http://www.nsc.org/products_training/Training/Pages/OnlineTraining.aspx

Once you have a safety plan in place it is important to give a copy to your employees, go over it in detail and have them sign off on it.  It is important to do this at least once a year and definitely upon hiring someone new.  Check for updates too.

If you are interested in more information or a quote, please feel free to contact us at www.tiains.com.

Fall Tips for Homeowners

Fall has arrived and that is the perfect time to do some basic home maintenance that may prevent a loss from occurring.

1)Heating System:  Now is a great time to give your heat system a check up before you turn it on.  If you have baseboard heaters, you should vacuum them to keep them free from dust and debris.  While your there be sure nothing lays on them like drapes for example.  If you have a furnace, you should call in an insured HVAC contractor to come and give your system a tune up.  Certain items need to be cleaned and replaced on the furnace directly. They also may be able to clean out any heating ducts for you or direct you to someone who can.  (This will help with allergies too!)  If your furnace uses air filters buy a bunch, keep them on hand and change them every month.

2) Detection:  You should change batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.  Every home should have a carbon monoxide detector in the room where the furnace is located and in the kitchen.

3)Windows:  Make sure all windows are closed and locked.  If you still feel drafts you can always get those plastic window insulation kits or save even more money by buying a roll of plastic and cut and measure yourself.  Use thin cardboard strips around the edges and cover with the plastic so it is flush against the window and thumb tacks to secure in place. 

4)Doors: Check for drafts around your doorways too.  If you have glass panels you can plastic them too.  Also if it is entrance you are not using you can get weather strip and place along the door jam.  Just be sure you can still get out in case of emergency.  They also sell strips for the bottom of the door that still allow the door to be opened and closed regularly.

5)Chimney: If you have a fireplace or wood stove it is critical that this be cleaned regularly.  Otherwise buildup and residue inside can start a fire.  Also be sure and keep any stacks of wood away from your home. Not inside or too close to the wood burning unit.

6) Outside:  Don’t forget about outside too.  Look for any loose boards, bricks or stones in walkways, & rake any leaves these all pose trip, slip and fall hazards especially once the snow and ice start to build up.  Clean out your gutters, the clogs could cause water to not drain properly and may cause ice buildup in the winter or excess along the foundation and walkways. Don’t leave leftover fuel from mowers or weed-whackers in the equipment. If left in the equipment it can cause sediment and possibly prevent the equipment from working properly when you need them again. Be sure to store gas cans in a safe place and out of reach of children.

Lastly, have a safety plan in place.  Go over exits with children, have a fire drill, teach your children where and what the detectors are and what to do if they go off.  Designate a meeting place across the street or neighbors to meet in the event of an emergency.

Contact us if you have questions or need more information at www.tiains.com