Enjoy The 4th Of July And Be Safe

We are approaching our nation’s birthday, July 4^th, and we hope everyone has a great day of celebration with friends and family. In 2019 over 7,800 people went to the emergency room as a result of fireworks related injuries. There were an estimated 15,770 reported fires started by fireworks. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported deaths, and $38 million in direct property damage. This is why it is a good idea to have a free home insurance review and quote, call us today!

Homeowner’s Insurance

If you over-celebrate and do have a loss or damage, please call our office. It is very likely that the claim would be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy.

General 4^th of July safety

Be a safe swimmer. Water sports and fireworks are two of the biggest pastimes for Fourth of July celebrations, and these are both linked to numerous deaths and injuries each year. Never swim alone, and make sure that kids’ water play is adequately supervised at all times.

Be a safe boater. Never consume alcohol while driving a boat. Set water safety rules for your family and passengers.

Use alcohol responsibly. Alcohol and fireworks can be a hazardous and dangerous combination.

Use sun screen. At the start of summer skin is especially tender, so use a high SPF.

Keep alert for local weather conditions. Check to see if any warning signs or flags are posted.

Remember your pet. They are not used to all the fireworks, so keep them inside.

Grill safely. Before you use your grill, make sure all hoses are secure and leak-free. Never grill inside. Keep grill away for al structures.

Fireworks Safety

• Never try to make your own fireworks.
• Light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Only use legal store bought fireworks.
• Don’t point sparklers or fireworks at yourself or others.
• Make sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Always keep matches and lighter fluid far away from fireworks.
• Read labels and carefully follow directions.
• Only light fireworks on the ground and in areas that are dry and fire resistant.
• Don’t attempt to light multiple devices at the same time.
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers.
• Teach children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothes catch fire.
• Always keep a portable fire extinguisher close by. Also keep a water hose or buckets of water nearby to put out fires.

Thanks to our sources

http://www.medicinenet.com

http://www.redcross.org/

http://www.protection1.com/

 

 

 

Are You Sure Your Know These Things?

These Truths Apply To Personal And Business Insurance

One of the most important things to consider when considering your personal or business insurance is, “What is the purpose, or goal, of having insurance in the first place?” If you want insurance to cover every broken window, theft of a lawn mower, or $500 medical bill, then you will pay more for the coverage. But we believe that insurance is designed to protect your business, home and family from the catastrophic events like, fire, serious injury or loss of a vehicle. In other words, losses that will affect your long term–not ruin your day.

Insurance Truth About Auto Deductibles

If you own an older car, it is better for you to increase your deductibles and pocket the premium savings.

Personal Umbrella Truth

If you own your home, have a 401K, and are building financial resources for your future, a $250 investment in a personal umbrella will be one of the best investments you will make.

Business Insurance Truth

Your business is more likely to suffer a loss from being sued by an employee or having a cyber-breach than by a fire. Every business needs employment liability and cyber liability insurance.

Insurance Truth

Your personal and business insurance needs change over time. For example, you may have purchased your wife an expensive diamond ring, or your child headed off to college. Your business may have added new equipment or an additional location. All these actions can increase your risk and liability. That is why it is important to have a regular insurance review. Your insurance should change with your needs.

Flood & Earthquake Insurance Truth

Floods and Earthquakes are not covered or included in homeowners policies. You must buy separate coverage.

For most people, keeping home and auto insurance policies are pivotal to making sure your everyday assets are covered. Bundling your home and auto policies through North Bay Insurance Brokers is an easy way to make sure both are taken care of simultaneously — with other upsides to you.

Benefits of Combining Home and Auto Insurance

Packaging home and auto insurance policies lead to premium discounts in the 10 to 20 percent range. In certain cases, you can even combine auto insurance with other policies like boat, renters, condo and life insurance. Ask us for a free quote today so you can protect and save.

 

 

 

 

Are You Ready?

According to the Federal Government, almost 90 percent of the wildfires in the United States are caused by humans.  Wildfire can occur is the country and major cities. Wild fires can start in a vacant lot and spread to neighborhood very quickly.

Wildfires And Homeowner’s Insurance

Unlike earthquakes and floods, wildfire damage should not require a completely separate policy, and probably does not even require a high risk policy. It is a good idea, however, to know what your homeowner’s policy does cover.  In many cases wildfires are covered, but it is always good to call your agent for a homeowner’s insurance review.

If your homeowner’s policy covers wildfires it would normally protect the building and contents from a covered loss. In addition, you will need additional living expenses if you must leave your home during re-construction.

Wildfire Prevention

Become familiar with your community’s disaster preparedness plans and create a plan for your family. Identify escape routes from your home and neighborhood and designate an emergency meeting place for your family to reunite if you become separated.

• Use fire resistant materials for roof and home construction.
• Keep wood piles at least 30 feet from your home.
• Create a 100-foot safety zone around your home.
• Prune trees within 15 feet of any chimney outlet.

• Follow local ordinances when burning yard waste. Avoid backyard burning in windy conditions, and keep a shovel, water, and fire retardant nearby to keep fires in check. Remove all flammables from your yard when burning.
• Make sure that fire vehicles can get to your home. Clearly mark all driveway entrances and display your name and address.
• Teach children about fire safety. Keep matches out of their reach.
• Keep roofs and gutters clean and free from debris.
• Have a ladder that reaches your roof.
• Have an extra-long hose.
• Rake leaves, dead limbs and twigs. Clear all flammable vegetation.
• Back as many vehicles as possible into the garage, then close the door. In the event that you evacuate, remember to close the garage door behind you as you leave. If you do not have a garage or if yours is full, park your vehicles heading in the direction of the evacuation route.

For most people, keeping home and auto insurance policies are pivotal to making sure your everyday assets are covered. Bundling your home and auto policies through North Bay Insurance Brokers is an easy way to make sure both are taken care of simultaneously — with other upsides to you.

Benefits of Combining Home and Auto Insurance

Packaging home and auto insurance policies lead to premium discounts in the 10 to 20 percent range. In certain cases, you can even combine auto insurance with other policies like boat, renters, condo and life insurance. Ask us for a free quote today so you can protect and save.

 

Don’t Trip Into Spring

Spring Brings the Need for Safety

Now that the weather is changing, many of us are heading outside to have some fun or start the home improvement projects that we have been planning for all winter.  However, before the outdoor fun begins, please remember to do it safely.  Every year, more than 60,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for lawn-mower injuries.

Stay Safe While Having Fun

As you plan your spring activities, remember these safety tips:

• If you are going on a bike ride, be sure to wear a helmet. Verify that the helmet sits level on top of the head–not rocking in any direction–and always fasten the safety strap.
• When using a barbecue grill, always be sure to leave sufficient space between the grill and your home’s siding and eaves.
• Keep children and pets far away from the grill.
• With gas grills, be sure that the hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks.
• If you own a pool, install a pool alarm to detect accidental or unauthorized entrance into the water. Always have an adult in the area when children are using the pool.  Limit use of alcohol when enjoying your pool.
• It is a good idea to do a safety inspection on all play structures, including tree houses. Inspect play structures for sharp screws, bolts, or nails.  Make sure the swing set is on a level area and the legs are properly anchored.
• Do not leave tools or sharp objects in the back yard.

Stay Safe While Completing Work Projects

• Spring is a good time to complete an inspection of all motorized equipment to make sure they are in good working order.
• Always wear protective eye gear, shoes, and long pants when using gardening power tools to protect your eyes, legs, and feet from flying rocks and debris.
• Never start your projects when you are tired. Fatigue can cause severe injuries with accidental slippage while using a dangerous power tool.
• If you are digging around your yard, verify that there are no electrical or gas lines in the area.
• Remember that your body may not be used to heat, so if it is hot be careful not to get dehydrated or even heat stroke. Hydrate yourself on a regular basis.

 

 

Our agency is committed to providing clients with the highest quality insurance plans available combined with some of the lowest possible rates.  Whether you are shopping for auto insurance, home insurance, life or business insurance, we can help you obtain the best coverage available with the lowest rate possible.

Home & Auto Insurance in Sonoma CA, Napa CA and Surrounding Areas

Combined Home & Auto Insurance

For most people, keeping home and auto insurance policies are pivotal to making sure your everyday assets are covered. Bundling your home and auto policies through North Bay Insurance Brokers is an easy way to make sure both are taken care of simultaneously — with other upsides to you.

Benefits of Combining Home and Auto Insurance

Packaging home and auto insurance policies lead to premium discounts in the 10 to 20 percent range. In certain cases, you can even combine auto insurance with other policies like boat, renters, condo and life insurance. Ask us for a free quote today so you can protect and save.

 

Downsizing To A Tiny Home? Think About Insurance Implications

Tiny Home Insurance Questions

Tiny homes are becoming a trend all over the country.  They can be much less expensive than traditional homes, and they also allow people to live a pared down lifestyle.  If you own a tiny home, or are thinking about buying a tiny home, we have the right kind of insurance for you.

Your tiny home needs the right kind of insurance coverage, including coverage for the structure, improvements, and contents.  Tiny home insurance policies mimic traditional homeowner’s insurance, yet are unique.  Policies are available for certified and do-it-yourself built tiny homes.  Some carriers require an on-site inspection and an inspection of the electrical system by a certified electrician. We recommend your tiny home be certified to help us get the best insurance coverage available.

Coverage can include:

• Coverage for transportation
• The structure
• Theft
• Personal effects
• Personal liability
• Outside improvements

If someone who is certified by the National Organization of Alternative Housing (NOAH) built your tiny house, and you seldom move your home, your insurance options may include a manufactured homeowner’s insurance policy.

You should also be aware that the moment you hitch up your tiny home on wheels to tow it, your homeowner’s insurance policy may no longer provide coverage, unless you have added the proper coverage.

For most people, keeping home and auto insurance policies are pivotal to making sure your everyday assets are covered. Bundling your home and auto policies through North Bay Insurance Brokers is an easy way to make sure both are taken care of simultaneously — with other upsides to you.

Benefits of Combining Home and Auto Insurance

Packaging home and auto insurance policies lead to premium discounts in the 10 to 20 percent range. In certain cases, you can even combine auto insurance with other policies like boat, renters, condo and life insurance. Ask us for a free quote today so you can protect and save.

 

We Love Our Toys

Do you need insurance for your boat, RV, motorcycle, or ATV?

Regardless of whether you are relaxing on your boat at the lake, traveling through the Rocky Mountains, camping with friends and family, or enjoying the open road on the bike of your dreams; you need to take the proper steps to protect what you have worked so hard to enjoy.

All these activities need personal insurance to protect you against damage and other claims. Generally, we have found that we can get better coverage and pricing when we use our specialty carriers.  For example, watercraft insurance has pollution coverage for fuel spills, coverage for injured water-skiers, and on-water towing coverage that homeowner’s insurance won’t provide.

RV Insurance

RV insurance rates differ from company to company, so it really pays to have us shop your insurance. Some markets offer better rates for trucks, RV’s, and campers, while others can offer better rates for motorcycles. To properly insure your RV, you may need liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, medical payment, and towing coverage.

Motorcycle Insurance

All motorcycles on the road are required by law to have motorcycle insurance. Motorcycle insurance protects a motorcycle and its owner in the event of a loss. You may need to consider special coverage.  Custom parts and equipment (ACPE)/Accessory coverage can be purchased for motorcycles less than 25 years old. You may spend thousands of dollars customizing your bike and that is why you need custom motorcycle insurance.

Boat/Watercraft Insurance

Your boat will need boat insurance for liability and damage to the hull and personal property. Boat insurance can include physical damage coverage, medical payments, liability, and trailer coverage.

ATV Insurance

ATV insurance is similar to motorcycle insurance. We can combine motorcycle coverage and ATV insurance into one policy for multi-vehicle discounts. We offer additional ATV coverage for damage to custom equipment that you’ve added to your ATV.

Why Work With Our Insurance Agency?

• We know and understand your risks
• We are a full service independent insurance agency
• Our goal is to provide the best possible combination, of coverage, price and service

 

For most people, keeping home and auto insurance policies are pivotal to making sure your everyday assets are covered. Bundling your home and auto policies through North Bay Insurance Brokers is an easy way to make sure both are taken care of simultaneously — with other upsides to you.

Benefits of Combining Home and Auto Insurance

Packaging home and auto insurance policies lead to premium discounts in the 10 to 20 percent range. In certain cases, you can even combine auto insurance with other policies like boat, renters, condo and life insurance. Ask us for a free quote today so you can protect and save.

 

Tips for Working at Home

Does COVID-19 Have You Working From Home?

Due to the stay at home mandate, there are many people who are working remotely these days.  It appears this mandate will last at least another month.  Many people have thought that working remotely would be great, but working remotely is a double-edge sword.  Sure, you get to stay home, but studies show that it can be harder to focus on work.

Benefits of Working Remotely:

• Remote employees tend to be more productive
• Remote workers cost employers less
• Remote employees tend to be happier and more satisfied
• Remote workers have a better work/life balance

Remote Workers Need to Be Aware of These Challenges:

• Lack of a work routine
• Tendency to over-work
• Lack of human interaction
• Prioritizing a work project
• Interruptions from family, pets, phone calls, and the doorbell

How to Make Working Remotely Work for You

• Confine your workspace to a specific area in your home.
• Set up your workspace like your office.
• Set a schedule and create a routine.
• When in doubt, go with over-communication; update your boss frequently on everything you are doing, and whether your schedule and deliverables are changing in any way.
• After work, stay off electronic devices for some time to transition to “home time.”
• Take regular breaks.
• Get dressed every day. Taking the time to get dressed and perform your usual self-care routine can prove a big psychological booster.

 

At North Bay Insurance Brokers, we know how hard you’ve worked to turn your house into a home. Since your home is one of the most important financial investments of your lifetime, you’ll need proper coverage in order to keep your investment protected and provide your family with the guarantee that they’ll always be safe and sound.

 

Your Personal Insurance and COVID-19

As our North Bay community and the country continues to manage through the COVID-19 crises, we thought it might be useful to take some time to remind you of the importance of your personal insurance during this time. The coronavirus pandemic won’t affect your auto or homeowner’s insurance too much, but there are a few coverages that could be impacted because of the temporary lifestyle change.

• Do not cancel your auto insurance just because you are temporarily not driving.  Auto insurance is required by law.  If you are looking for ways to save money on your auto insurance, give us a call.
• If you are working remotely via computer, there should be no issues with your homeowners or renter’s insurance.  However, this is true as long as there are no customers coming to your home.  If you are running a business from your home, you will need business insurance.  We are happy to help you with this.
• If you have a claim, we are open, as are the insurers.  Give us a call, and we will be ready to help you. Your policy has toll-free claim numbers to help you get the process going.
• Many insurance companies are offering relaxed payment terms. We suggest you contact them directly if you feel you may miss a payment. Of course, you can always contact our office to assist you.
• Be aware of credit card and cyber scams. Unfortunately, criminals have ramped up their efforts during this crisis.  The fraud ranges from false claims of cures and treatments for the coronavirus to fake charities attempting to soliciting money to help those suffering.
• As we all have so much time at home, now is a good time to complete a home inventory of your personal property.  Creating and updating an inventory of your personal possessions is one of the best ways to make the most of your homeowners or renters insurance, and it makes filing a claim easier and more efficient.  If your home is damaged or totally lost due to a fire or other event, having a home inventory will help you recover all your personal property with the least amount of time and stress.
• Life insurance should not be affected because of COVID-19.  If you already have life insurance, you are covered, and a company cannot make changes to a policy that is already active.  If you do not currently have coverage, however, your application may be affected.  Keep in mind that each life insurance company is handling the pandemic differently. It is important to have us shop your life insurance to make sure the company you choose meets your needs.

 

At North Bay Insurance Brokers, we know how hard you’ve worked to turn your house into a home. Since your home is one of the most important financial investments of your lifetime, you’ll need proper coverage in order to keep your investment protected and provide your family with the guarantee that they’ll always be safe and sound.

Give us a call so we can provide you with options.

 

Let’s Get Prepared For Wildfires

Wildfires have caused the loss of life and caused millions of dollars of damage In the North Bay. It is important to understand the facts about wildfires and personal insurance. Let’s look at the facts regarding wildfires.

• Wildfires can occur anytime, not just during the summer months. Wildfires can occur when high winds spread quickly
• Wildfires spread quickly. Even if you live in an area not traditionally exposed to wildfire you may be at risk.
• Wildfires occur in all areas. Wildfires can be caused by campfires and other accidents.
• There are many things you can do to protect your property. You can keep your property free of debris and create a buffer zone around your home.

Don’t wait until the last minute to think about homeowner’s insurance and don’t be shy about asking for estimates on more than one house. Ask if the house will qualify, and get an estimate of the premium.

Become familiar with your community’s disaster preparedness plans and create a plan for your family. Identify escape routes from your home and neighborhood and designate an emergency meeting place for your family to reunite if you become separated.

• Use fire resistant materials for roof and home construction.
• Keep wood piles at least 30 feet from your home.
• Create a 100-foot safety zone around your home.
• Prune trees within 15 feet of any chimney outlet.

• Follow local ordinances when burning yard waste. Avoid backyard burning in windy conditions, and keep a shovel, water, and fire retardant nearby to keep fires in check. Remove all flammables from your yard when burning.
• Make sure that fire vehicles can get to your home. Clearly mark all driveway entrances and display your name and address.
• Teach children about fire safety. Keep matches out of their reach.
• Keep roofs and gutters clean and free from debris.
• Have a ladder that reaches your roof.
• Have an extra-long hose.
• Rake leaves, dead limbs and twigs. Clear all flammable vegetation.
• Back as many vehicles as possible into the garage, then close the door. In the event that you evacuate, remember to close the garage door behind you as you leave. If you do not have a garage or if yours is full, park your vehicles heading in the direction of the evacuation route.

Choosing the right coverage for your home may depend on a number of factors. You generally need enough insurance to cover the cost of rebuilding your home and replacing your personal possessions. The homeowner’s policy also provides liability insurance to defend you in the event of a lawsuit.

At North Bay Insurance Brokers, we know how hard you’ve worked to turn your house into a home. Since your home is one of the most important financial investments of your lifetime, you’ll need proper coverage in order to keep your investment protected and provide your family with the guarantee that they’ll always be safe and sound.

Give us a call so we can provide you with options.

 

Coronavirus Will Have An Impact In The North Bay

The Centers for Disease Control recently stated that the Coronavirus will have an impact in the United States.

People who contracted the Wuhan virus have reported symptoms that include fever, chills, headaches, difficulty breathing, and a sore throat.  Now is a good time to start thinking about how you might protect yourself and your family from contracting this virus.

The World Health Organization and the CDC recommend that you take the usual precautions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth if your hands are not clean.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
• Clean surfaces you often touch.
• Stay home from work, school, and public areas if you are sick.
• Check with your doctor if you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, and tell your doctor about any recent travels.
• Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat or animal organs.
• If you are visiting live markets in areas that have recently had new coronavirus cases, avoid contact with live animals and surfaces they may have touched.

Traveling

If you do get sick while traveling, it is important to know the signs of coronavirus and seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have contracted the virus.

Symptoms like illness include fever, cough and shortness of breath. It is important to note, however, that the coronavirus symptoms are common to a number of viruses.

You might be able to pay less for your insurance premium and not even know it. So it pays to connect with us to review your insurance needs. Allen & Furr Insurance, is an Independent Insurance Agency, we represent many of the top insurance companies in the country. This means better coverage, and at a competitive price, including life and health insurance.

At North Bay Insurance Brokers, we know how hard you’ve worked to turn your house into a home. Since your home is one of the most important financial investments of your lifetime, you’ll need proper coverage in order to keep your investment protected and provide your family with the guarantee that they’ll always be safe and sound.

Give us a call so we can provide you with options.