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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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Navigating the Season: Winter Driving Safety Tips

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As the seasons change and leaves turn vibrant hues of red and gold, it’s a reminder that fall and winter are just around the corner. While these seasons bring festive holidays and cozy nights by the fire, they also come with challenges for drivers. Rain, snow, ice, and reduced daylight can make the roads treacherous. To ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road, it’s essential to be prepared and knowledgeable about fall and winter driving safety.

Have us complete a review of your auto `insurance to make sure you have the right coverage for your individual situation.

Vehicle Maintenance

Before the cold weather sets in, make sure your vehicle is in top-notch condition. Consider the following maintenance tasks:

  • Tire Check: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth for better traction on wet and slippery roads. Consider switching to winter tires if you live in an area with heavy snowfall.
  • Brakes and Lights: Check your brakes and lights to ensure they are working correctly. Visibility is crucial during the darker months.
  • Battery Health: Cold weather can be tough on car batteries. Make sure your battery is in good condition, and consider having it tested.
  • Fluids: Ensure that all fluids, including engine oil, antifreeze, and windshield washer fluid, are at the recommended levels.
  • Heating and Defrosting System: Ensure your heating and defrosting systems are functioning properly to keep your windows clear and passengers warm.

Plan Ahead

Before heading out, check the weather forecast and road conditions. If severe weather is expected, consider postponing your trip or finding an alternative route. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination, as driving in adverse conditions can significantly slow you down.

Slow Down and Increase Following Distance

One of the most crucial safety tips for fall and winter driving is to reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Slower speeds provide more time to react to unexpected hazards and reduce the risk of skidding on slippery roads. A good rule of thumb is to double your following distance in wet conditions and increase it even more in icy or snowy conditions.

Use Proper Lighting

With reduced daylight during fall and winter, it’s crucial to use your vehicle’s lighting system effectively. Ensure all your lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, are functioning correctly. Use your headlights even during daylight hours, as this increases your visibility to other drivers. Don’t forget to clear snow and ice from your vehicle’s lights and windows to maintain maximum visibility.

Avoid Cruise Control

Cruise control can be a great feature on dry roads, but it can be dangerous in slippery conditions. Avoid using cruise control when driving on wet, icy, or snowy roads, as it can hinder your ability to react quickly to changing road conditions.

Know How to Handle Skids

Skidding can happen even to the most experienced drivers. If your vehicle starts to skid, remain calm and follow these steps:

For a front-wheel skid: Ease off the gas pedal and steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid sudden jerking movements.

For a rear-wheel skid: Turn your steering wheel toward the skid until you regain control. Avoid oversteering.

Carry an Emergency Kit

Prepare for the unexpected by carrying an emergency kit in your vehicle. This kit should include items like a flashlight, extra warm clothing, blankets, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, and basic tools. Having these items on hand can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency or if you become stranded.

Fall and winter driving can be challenging, but with the right preparations and knowledge, you can navigate these seasons safely. Vehicle maintenance, careful planning, reduced speeds, proper lighting, and knowing how to handle adverse conditions are all key elements in ensuring your safety on the road. By following these tips and being vigilant, you can enjoy the beauty of the season without compromising your safety or that of others.

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.

 

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.

Heat Safety Tips For Your Pet

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Summertime means sun, sand, and lots of outside playtime with your dog or cat. Summer is a wonderful time to spend with your pet. However, rising temperatures pose a greater risk to our pets, including more injuries, skin and ear infections, and the risk of heat stroke.

  • Consult your veterinarian about the dangers of warm weather for pets (and travel safety if you plan to travel with a pet).
  • Look for signs of shock. Collapse, 104°F+ body temperature, bloody diarrhea or vomit, depressed stupor, seizures or coma, heavy panting or trouble breathing, elevated heart rate, and salivation are some of the symptoms.
  • When your pets are outside, make sure they have limitless access to fresh water and shade.
  • Never leave your pet in the car.
  • Place water-soaked towels on the dog’s head, neck, feet, chest, and abdomen, turn on a fan and direct it toward your dog, and rub 70% Isopropyl alcohol on the dog’s foot pads to help cool him down, but don’t use too much.
  • Inquire with your veterinarian about how to spot signs of heat exhaustion.
  • Keep your pet free of parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworm, which are more common in the summer.
  • Summer is the ideal season for barbeques, picnics, and other outdoor celebrations, the most famous of which is the Fourth of July, which has the most anticipated fireworks display. While we all like a huge brilliant boom, our pets are usually startled and flee. Furthermore, pyrotechnics contain chemicals such as potassium nitrate, which can poison your curious pet if consumed.

In 1989, Oakwood’s founder, Bruce L. Sogn, set out to establish a business that would give him the opportunity to serve the community and to fulfill a need in the marketplace. Today as an independent insurance agency, Oakwood does just that.

After researching the insurance industry, he found that by becoming an independent insurance agent, he could offer a comprehensive range of insurance products and services to his clients. By maintaining focus on competitive products, Oakwood has kept its commitment to service, professionalism, and the highest integrity.