Be “Street Smart” During The Holiday Shopping Season

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Don’t let criminals take the Ho Ho Ho out of your Christmas

For the next few weeks, everyone will be very busy. We all have family activities, work, school, shopping, parties and football games to fill our days. Unfortunately, criminals are also busy this time of year.  So when you are shopping, make sure to protect yourself.  These tips can help you to stay safe during the holiday season.

  1. If shopping online, don’t click on unfamiliar web sites or emails. Don’t give your personal information to sites you don’t know; shop with companies you know and trust. Check for background information if you plan to buy from a new or unfamiliar company.
  2. Do not download holiday apps from unfamiliar websites and then give your permission for the app to have unlimited access to your information.
  3. Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle, particularly when shopping. Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.
  4. Do not buy all your holiday gifts online using unsecure, Wi-Fi connections.
  5. Avoid driving alone or at night. Park in well-lit parking lots, and write down your location.
  6. Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
  7. Keep receipts in your pocket, not in the package.
  8. Never leave packages in the car; place in the truck if necessary.
  9. Don’t take all your credit cards with you, only those you may need.

To find more useful shopping tips and personal safety information, visit the National Crime Prevention Council’s website.

 

 

 

 

 

 

How To Stop Porch Pirates?

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The holiday season is filled with fun, parties, food, gifts, overeating, and, unfortunately, some risk. One of the fasted growing risks for many people is stolen packages by porch pirates. More than 25 million Americans have their packages stolen right from their doorsteps by porch pirates each year, don’t be one of them.

Your homeowners or renter’s insurance generally may not cover this loss as it tends to be under your deductible. There could be covered if you have personal property off-premises insurance.

Call our office for a review of your homeowner’s insurance, as each policy is unique to your circumstances.

Things To Do

  • Delivery confirmation is a good way to prove the package was delivered.
  • Thieves will follow delivery trucks, waiting for the perfect target.
  • These thieves commonly strike during working hours as many homes are empty at that time.
  • You can insure your packages.
  • Consider having a person there when the delivery is scheduled.
  • Install a security camera.

What To Do If A Package Is Stolen

  • Track your package. Check the delivery confirmation and tracking number.
  • Make sure a neighbor did not pick it up for you.
  • Contact the seller. Different retailers have different policies and processes for handling stolen items, but usually, you are entitled to a refund or a replacement item.
  • File a claim with the shipping company.
  • Check your Credit Cards for Purchase Protection.

Call our office for a review of your homeowner’s insurance, as each policy is unique to your circumstances. We are happy to help you through your claim and help you determine the best course of action.

 

Don’t Let Your Holiday Party Turn Into A Lawsuit

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A Business Insurance Update

It is the holiday season, a great time for charity events and company parties. These events are a great time and place to gather together to increase employee morale and say thanks, they also can lead to increased liability and risk.

Your commercial or business insurance may provide coverage but if you have any question, it is best to call our office for a review of your business insurance program.

The biggest issue involves the use of alcohol. When business owners host a holiday party and serve alcohol as part of the festivities, liquor liability can be covered by their commercial insurance policy. However, it is always best to check with your insurance agent.

Holiday Party Risk Management

  • Limit use of alcohol; offer two drink tickets per person.
  • Remind employees via email about your company’s code of conduct and substance abuse policy prior to the party.
  • Reinforce the company’s harassment policies prior to the party. Emphasize the company has a zero-tolerance policy for any sort of harassment, including both physical and verbal forms.
  • Make sure you have food at your party.
  • During the party, monitor alcohol consumption.
  • Consider having the party at a restaurant. This is a good way to transfer liability.
  • Make the party optional.
  • Arrange for cab rides or transportation home for guests who may need it.
  • Encourager managers to set a good example.
  • Consider inviting spouses, which is a good way to reduce romantic hook-ups.

Personal service combined with depth of knowledge in the insurance marketplace, and access to a wide range of carriers is the combination of factors that sets Oakwood Insurance apart from its competitors. We not only work in the north metro, but it’s also our home. We strive to support the vibrancy and growth of this community. We want it to thrive, and we want you to thrive. We will review your insurance coverage and help you understand what you have and ensure that it’s the best fit for your goals.

Stop Porch Pirates This Holiday Season

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The holiday season is filled with fun, parties, food, gifts, overeating and unfortunately some risk. One of the fasted growing risks for many people are stolen packages by porch pirates.  According to proopertycasualtiy360, over 26 million packages are stolen during the holiday season.  Need more bad news?

Your homeowners or renter’s insurance generally may not cover this loss as it tends to be under your deductible.  There could be coverage if you have personal property off premises insurance.  Also for theft coverage to apply generally, you need proof of loss by a broker indoor, etc.

Call our office for a review of your homeowner’s insurance, as each policy is unique to your circumstances.

Things To Do

  • Delivery confirmation is a good way to prove the package was delivered.
  • Thieves will follow delivery trucks, waiting for the perfect target.
  • These thieves commonly strike during working hours as many homes are empty at that time.
  • You can insure your packages.
  • Consider having a person there when the delivery is scheduled.
  • Install a security camera.

What To Do If A Package Is Stolen

  • Track your package. Check the delivery confirmation and tracking number.
  • Make sure a neighbor did not pick it up for you.
  • Contact the seller. Different retailers have different policies and processes for handling stolen items, but usually, you are entitled to a refund or a replacement item.
  • File a claim with the shipping company.
  • Check your Credit Cards for Purchase Protection.

How To Shop Safely This Holiday Season

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Halloween is over and that means we are in the middle of the holiday season.  During the next 45 days, we will all be busy shopping, eating out, and traveling.  Thieves know that the police are overloaded during the holiday season, and they take full advantage it.  Burglars know that there are many expensive items in homes and cars during the holidays.

Your home or renter’s insurance will provide coverage for theft or loss if you have the coverage. Now would be a good time to call us for a free personal insurance review. Whether you are holiday shopping at the mall, online, or a little of both, keeping yourself and your personal information safe is important.  Here are a few holiday shopping safety tips:

Holiday Shopping Safety

  • Always be aware of your surroundings.
  • Lock your shopping bags in your trunk.
  • Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
  • Never leave car doors unlocked or windows open.
  • Always park in lighted areas. DO NOT park in remote areas.
  • Shop with a friend.
  • Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
  • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
  • Keep receipts in your wallet or purse.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • As you return to your car, make sure to keep your car key in your hand.

We work to ensure that your personal insurance provides the protection you deserve and need.  We understand you may need different coverage like a personal umbrella, RV insurance, valuable articles coverage, earthquake, or flood coverage.

Over the years, we have found that homeowners who adhere to the following strategies have a better chance of obtaining the best possible combination of coverage, price, and service.

Our trusted insurance professionals are here to help you with every step of the insurance process and can design a personal or commercial insurance policy to fit your needs. One of the insurance professionals will work closely with you to ensure that you receive the individualized attention you deserve.