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Do You Know Your Flood Risk - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Do You Know Your Flood Risk?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Are you in a flood risk zone?

According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), everyone lives in a flood risk zone. Even those who don’t live near water are at risk because anywhere it rains, it can flood. Heavy rains, clogged or insufficient drainage systems, nearby construction projects, broken water mains, and inadequate levees and dams can cause flooding that puts your home and belongings at risk.

Your home is one of your greatest investments. It’s important to prepare ahead should a disaster occur. Here are three simple steps to help make sure you’re ready in the event of a flood risk.

  • Create a “flood file” and keep it in an accessible waterproof and fireproof container. It should contain a personal property inventory of your home, a copy of your insurance information, copies of any critical personal documents (e.g. social security cards, titles and deeds), and a CD backup of computer documents and digital photos.
  • Prepare your home by making sure your sump pump works and has a battery backup, your gutters and downspouts are clear, your electronics and appliances are elevated, and any valuables and keepsakes are moved to a higher level.
  • Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes from home, work and school. Make sure that plan includes an out-of-town contact list that all family members can call in case you get separated. Also, create an emergency kit with extra drinking water, non-perishable food, first-aid materials, blankets, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries that can be grabbed easily if you need to evacuate.

It’s important to know that most home policies don’t cover flooding and just a few inches of water damage can cost thousands. To find out if you live in an area that is at risk for flooding, type in your address in the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and use this interactive tool to learn more.

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What To Do After A Flood - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

What To Do After A Flood

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Anyone who’s been through a flood knows that recovering after this kind of disaster isn’t easy. You’re forced to accept that irreplaceable family treasures and memories may be gone forever, your furniture is destroyed, potentially along with your home. It’s a devastating and emotional moment and a lot to take in all at once. But you know the only thing you can do is move forward, and begin the steps needed to restore your home.

As soon as the floodwaters recede, you can return to your home as long as officials give the OK to do so. Before entering your home, however, make sure it is safe!

Tips for staying safe upon return:

  • Check for structural damage and use extreme caution. One way to do this is to check if the walls are vertical and straight.
  • Turn off the electricity in your home at the main breaker or fuse box. Make sure you stand in a dry spot to do this! If you can’t stand in a dry spot, call an electrician who will take care of the risk.
  • Turn off the gas. If you smell something unusual, leave immediately and call your gas company from another location.
  • Check your sewage system. Repair damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. These are serious health hazards.
  • Take precautions when inspecting your home. Your home may have sagging ceilings and areas that are still flooded. Also beware of critters like snakes, spiders, and rodents that may have taken refuge in your home!

Bring waterproof boots, a first aid kit, cleaning supplies, and a battery-powered flashlight with you before entering the house! You never know what you’ll run into.

Tips for claim reporting:
Another important step to take when recovering from a flood is reporting your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. While flood coverage is typically not provided under most homeowner’s and renter’s policies, flood insurance may be available to you through the federally regulated program known as the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If you need assistance to locate your flood insurance carrier, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). A claims adjuster should contact you within a day or two after the report of the claim, depending on the severity of the flood event.

When reporting a claim, you should have the following information available:
– Your name and address
– Policy number
– Date the loss happened
– Description of events that led to the loss
– Active phone number
– Confirm what’s covered under your NFIP policy (some policyholders may only have building or personal property items coverage, not both)

Tips for inspections:

The next step, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is to prepare for your inspection. After deeming the structure safe for entry, take as many photos or videos of the flood-damaged property on the outside and inside. Take pictures of high-cost items as well like washers and dryers, hot water heaters, televisions, and kitchen appliances. It’s also a good idea to separate the damaged from undamaged items prior to the inspection.

When the adjuster arrives, they will inspect your property including taking measurements and photos, and give you an overview of the NFIP flood claims process. Remember that some flood insurance claims are more complex than others. Some may be opened and closed quickly, while others may take weeks or even months to resolve.

If your vehicle was also damaged in a flood event, it’s best to call your auto insurance provider to see if you’re covered for the loss.

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Preparing For Severe Weather - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Preparing For Severe Weather

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Are you ready for Severe Weather?

Try and put yourself in the shoes of those who have gone through a natural disaster, and imagine this: Before a severe weather event hits – you hear the warnings from state officials and your local news, but might not take them too seriously. They’re urging the public to stock up on food and supplies, fill up on gas – or – worst-case scenario, they tell you to evacuate the area immediately. As the storm system nears, you realize this is serious. But, by the time you make it to the grocery store for important supplies and water– everything is sold out. It’s at that moment you might be asking yourself, “How did I let this happen?”

Severe weather can strike anywhere in the U.S., and if a disaster hits in your area, you may not have access to food, water, or electricity for days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults in the U.S. do not have the resources or plans in place for an emergency – that’s a big number! Always remember – there’s no such thing as being “too prepared,” and it’s better to start preparing now than later when the store shelves are empty!

Below are some important items to include in an emergency preparedness kit:

  • Food and water. A three-day supply of non-perishable goods, and have one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. (Also have a manual can opener on hand!)
  • Prescription medicines. Have at least a three-day supply on hand.
  • Personal care items. Items like soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and contact lenses.
  • First aid kit. Your local store should have them in stock. They cost anywhere from $25 to $35.
  • Electronics. Be sure to have battery-powered or solar flashlight, a cell phone with a portable charger and have extra batteries on hand.
  • Important papers. Copies of drivers’ licenses, special medical information, social security cards, etc. Keep them in a waterproof, air tight bag so water doesn’t seep through.
  • Cash. With no power, stores may not be able to take credit cards and ATMs may be out of cash so keep a reasonable amount of cash available so you have it if needed.
  • Basic hand tools. A wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet. Your furry friends also need a three-day supply of food and water!

Depending on the size of your family, you may need additional supplies not included in the list, such as baby formula or games for the kids.

If you do end up losing power, it’s important to think about ways you can keep your food cold temporarily if you don’t have a cooler on hand. One option is your washing machine – just fill it with ice and voila! You won’t have to worry when the ice starts melting since it can drain water. Plus – it has a lid! A second option is to fill your bathtub with ice.

Keeping these items on hand is crucial and could potentially save a life. Place your emergency kit in a designated spot all family members are familiar with and have it ready in case you need to leave your home quickly. From everyone here at Foremost – stay safe and stay prepared!

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UTV Safety Before You Ride - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

UTV Safety Before You Ride

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Off-road vehicles are a thrill, but they can be dangerous if you don’t know how to properly ride them. Did you know, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were almost 94,000 off-road vehicle injuries treated in the emergency room in 2017? That’s why it’s important to understand the dangers and take safety precautions before riding.

Off-road vehicles refer to many different machines, including ATVs, dirt bikes, 4-wheel drive trucks, SUVs, and UTVs. In this article, we’ll focus on UTV safety. They’re utility-terrain vehicles, utility task vehicles, or side-by-sides. They look like a cross between an ATV and a Jeep but trust me, they don’t drive like either one. Before you take one for a ride, remember these safety tips:

Don’t Drink and Drive A UTV

No matter what, never drink and drive. We’ve all heard this many times, but drinking severely impairs your reaction time and judgment. Drugs can also have this effect on your driving. Stay in control, and avoid putting yourself or anyone else in danger.

Understand the Vehicle

It may sound boring, but read the operator’s manual. It’s best to keep it in the vehicle at all times as a reference tool. Another way to familiarize yourself with the UTV is by reading the warning labels. They’re there to point out potential dangers and how to avoid them.

Do a Pre-Ride ATV Check

Check the tires before you head out. No one wants a flat tire! Also, check your fuel level so you know when you will have to fill up again. Do a quick walk around the vehicle and look for anything that may be wrong. This step can prevent a breakdown – you’ll be thankful you did it.

Wear Safety Gear

Always wear over-the-ankle boots, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, a certified helmet, and goggles if your helmet doesn’t have any eye protection. Wearing a protective suit is also something you should consider; it’s optional, but an important precaution, especially if you’re riding alone.

Wear Seat Belts

Even if you aren’t driving far, everyone in the UTV needs to wear a seat belt. Many states require this. A lot of UTV accidents are rollovers, and in some incidents, people have been ejected from their seats.

Practice Driving

Practice, practice, practice! The first time you drive a UTV you will probably want to go fast, but I highly recommend taking it slow. Practice going at a safe speed, taking corners, and adjusting to the way it rides on trails. If the driver is a young teen, be sure they have supervision.

Remember Passenger Safety

Never carry more passengers than the UTV is designed for and make sure they keep their limbs inside the vehicle at all times. There should be handlebars for passengers to hold on to – if a passenger is unable to reach the handles, then they should not be riding. Once all of the passengers are in, make sure the doors are secured and locked shut.

Stay on the Trail

Stay on the trail to help prevent collisions. Tires on most off-road vehicles are meant to stay, well…off the road. They aren’t made for paved roads, and therefore, they will handle differently. If you have to cross a public road at all, double-check for cars both ways and proceed with caution.

Ride Smart

It’s best not to ride alone for many reasons, such as breaking down or getting hurt. If you are riding alone, take extra caution and be prepared. When you ride you should be alert and observant. There may be other riders that aren’t experienced and forget to check their surroundings. Also, do not attempt maneuvers that could be risky – know your limits!

Take a Safety Course

The best advice to give any UTV rider is to take a safety course! Most people learn better hands-on, but there are also online courses available. Anyone younger than the age of 16 must complete a safety course before driving in most states.

Lastly, if you own a UTV, here’s one more important tip to keep in mind. Before you let someone else drive your UTV, help them understand these safety tips and why they’re important. Make sure they know the differences between driving an on-road vehicle and an off-road vehicle. Ride safe!

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It's Hot Out There. Are You Staying Cool - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

It’s Hot Out There. Are You Staying Cool?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

It’s Hot Out There. Are You Staying Cool?

All you have to do is turn on the news, or leave air conditioning, to know that it’s hot outside all over our country. I learned firsthand because I spent six hours outside yesterday when the Foremost Chopper visited our office park in Michigan.

This was about halfway through the day. Can you tell that my hair doesn’t cooperate with humidity? I was exhausted at the end of the day and fell asleep well before 10 p.m. and for a person who’s usually up to 11:30, that’s strange. So while I had time to prepare for an afternoon out in the heat, I wasn’t prepared for the heat. Let’s review where I went right and where I went wrong yesterday using the following heat-related illness preventative tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC recommends… “Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.”

This was my first failure. While I brought a bottle of water, I rarely drank from it because of that second sentence. I didn’t feel thirsty. If you are outside, remember to keep hydrated, regardless of thirst level. So I’m 0-1.

The CDC recommends… “Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.”

I usually only drink water, so I had this right. My water was also outside with me, so it wasn’t cold. BUT, and it’s a big but, I’ve already mentioned that I rarely drank my water. So I’m saying that I’m 0-2.

The CDC recommends… “Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.”

Well, as you can see in the photo, that dress I’m wearing is both light-colored and loose-fitting. I can also attest that it’s pretty lightweight. I’m 1-3.

The CDC recommends… “If you must be out in the heat, limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.”

I was outdoors from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., so I’m 1-4.

The CDC recommends… “Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat,…sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher…”

I wasn’t wearing a hat, but I was wearing sunglasses and I did wear a broad-spectrum SPF 70 sunscreen. If that is three items, I’m 3-7. 43% is not even close to a passing grade.

So while I was fortunate not to suffer from heat exhaustion, severe sunburn, heat cramps, or worse, hopefully, you’ll learn from my errors—especially if you’re trying to beat the heat while in your RV, on your boat, or PWC. Your safety is important to us.

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It's hot. Don't leave your kids in the car! - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

It’s hot. Don’t leave your kids in the car!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Don’t leave your kids in the car! | Start a Quote Today!

I wish I were kidding. As an on-the-go mom, I have sympathy for parents trying to multi-task, but there are certain things that we MUST pay attention to. Leaving the kids in the car while grabbing a snack in the gas station may be a time-saver, but with the extreme heat that can take place across the country, saving time is something you don’t want to test. As a mom, I’m going to give you a blunt reminder during this hot weather:

DON’T LEAVE YOUR KIDS IN THE CAR ALONE—EVER!

Yesterday the temperature gauge in my car read 93 degrees. This is the exact temperature that proves your car can become an oven in high temperatures. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, when it’s 93 degrees outside:

  • After 20 minutes temperatures inside a car = 125 degrees
  • After 40 minutes temperatures inside a car = 140 degrees

It’s also important to remember that your kids’ little bodies are affected by heat more quickly and severely than us adults, so our judgment of temperature is not accurate to that of a child. The stats above may be based on extremely hot weather, but at any temperature, it’s never a good idea to leave your kids in the car alone. Saving a few minutes is far too big a gamble for the priceless cost it could pay. Don’t let those be the few minutes you regret forever.

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What To Do When Driving In A Work Zone - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

What To Do When Driving In A Work Zone

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Driving In A Work Zone |

What To Do When Driving In A Work Zone

Once I see that the cars are slowing down, I always get frustrated, and then I see that the cars are merging to one lane (way too late) and all that makes me think is, ugh…it must be road construction. I’m sure some of you have the same feelings and after researching this topic I feel very guilty. Not only are work zones good, because that means that our roads are being improved upon and made safer, but it also provides jobs to our economy.

So, why do I get so frustrated when I come upon a work zone? Impatience probably. Or maybe it’s that person who sped by everyone and at the last minute and wants to merge in front of me, I’m sure you know the one. But, I do understand the importance of driving safely and being aware while I am in the work zone. Fines and tickets are usually double or triple, depending on your state, and very expensive. And, an even more important reason is that people are working in this area. I can’t imagine what it would be like to go to work every day on the road, where people are impatiently speeding by you. That’s why this week is Work Zone Awareness Week. To remind drivers, like me, to be aware and careful at these “places of business.”

The Department of Transportation offers 10 tips that should help with your awareness while driving through that oh-so-common work zone:

  1. Expect the unexpected. (Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes changed and people working very close to the road).
  2. Slow Down. (Speeding is the major causes of work zone crashes)
  3. Don’t tailgate. Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. (The most common crash in a highway work zone is the rear end collision.)
  4. Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and construction workers.
  5. Pay attention to the signs. Enough said.
  6. Obey road crew workers.
  7. Stay alert and minimize distractions.
  8. Keep up with the traffic flow. (Don’t drive right up to the lane closure and then try to barge in.)
  9. Schedule enough time to drive safely and check for traffic information before you began your journey.
  10. Be patient and stay calm. (Work zones aren’t there to personally inconvenience you.)

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Autonomous Cars - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Autonomous Cars?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

A self-driving car, also known as an autonomous car, driverless car, or robotic car, is a vehicle that is capable of sensing its environment and moving safely with little or no human input.

What do you think, will autonomous cars affect the insurance industry?

From what I understand, the manufacturers of the vehicles are planning to have their own insurance plans. But, many variables are still in the process of being determined. Such as, many tracking sensors will need to be placed in vehicles so they will be able to determine whether a human or autonomous vehicle is at fault. The northern states weather conditions still need to be tweaked, because no matter what…you can’t control “Old Man Winter”!!


Can you believe that as many as 94% of all accidents are preventable and only happen because of human error! WOW.. That’s hard to fathom! Saving human lives is the ultimate goal, and I really do believe that this is going to help our future generations. 🙂


They are saying that insurance premiums will become much lower because accidents will become rarer. Autonomous vehicles will be on the roads with our regular vehicles, then they will eventually take over all roadways. Can you imagine sitting in a car, reading, eating, napping? This could become a new norm in our future. The future is coming and autonomous cars are right around the corner!!

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What to Do in a Car Accident or Breakdown - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

What to Do in a Car Accident or Breakdown

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

For when things go wrong on the road.

4 MINUTE READ

Compliments of Shield Agency and AAA Insurance Companies

Nathan Hackett

Don’t wait until a car accident or breakdown happens to figure out the steps you need to take. Prepare for it ahead of time with the help of these checklists for what to do in a car accident or breakdown:

Download and print this page to put in your glove box as a handy reminder in case you need it down the road (and we hope you never do).Get It Now

What to do in a car accident or breakdown: before it happens

  • Put a copy of your proof of insurance (plus a pen and paper) in your glove box.
  • Add your insurance company’s phone number and your policy number to your phone. (If you have insurance through AAA, download the AAA Mobile app for free and log in. Your policy details are on the app.)
  • Make note of your preferred repair shop should your vehicle need to be towed. If you need recommendations for trustworthy shops, find AAA Approved Auto Repair facilitiesnear you.
  • Keep an emergency kit with first-aid and roadside visibility items (e.g., flashlight, flares) in your car.

What to do in a car accident: after it happens

1. Check for injuries: Take a few slow, deep breaths to calm yourself and assess your own condition. If you’re able, check on others involved in the collision to determine if anyone is hurt. If you or they need medical attention, call 911.

2. Remain at the scene: If no one is injured and your vehicle is drivable, turn on the hazard lights and safely move it to an emergency lane or parking area. If it can’t be moved, turn on the hazard lights and go to a spot safely away from moving traffic until emergency services arrive.

3. Exchange information: Take photos of the location, people involved and damaged vehicles, and exchange information with all parties, including witnesses. Write down or use your phone’s camera to collect everyone’s information: name; address/email; driver’s license number; insurance carrier and policy number; vehicle make, model, and year; license plate number; VIN.

4. File a police report: If the police don’t come to the scene, file an accident report at a local police station or your insurance agency a day or two later. It will be important if injuries from the crash (such as whiplash) don’t appear for several days and you or another party needs to file a liability claim.

5. Notify your insurance carrier: The sooner you make your insurance company aware of the crash, the sooner it can start the claim process.

6. Get your vehicle repaired: The choice of where to get the repairs done is yours, and you can ask your insurance company for body shop recommendations. Plus, we can help with that at one of our AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities—simply find the one closest to you.

What to do in a breakdown: after it happens

Locations, traffic patterns, and vehicle problems vary—so the following are general suggestions, not rigid rules:

1. Safely pull off the road.

2. Alert other motorists so they avoid you (turn on hazard lights, open hood, etc.).

3. Make a written or mental note of your vehicle’s location.

4. Identify the problem or anything unusual (sounds, smells, etc.).

5. Call for roadside assistance and, if needed, contact your insurance company. (You can reach AAA via the AAA Mobile app or by calling the number on your membership card.)

6. If it’s safe to do so, remain with your vehicle until the service technician arrives.

Have a Trusted Partner on the Road

Get the protection you need from a brand you trust. Contact your local AAA agent to learn more about auto insurance through AAA.

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Halloween Driving Tips

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At a glance: Help protect trick-or-treaters by following these driving safety tips on Halloween, or on the night your community hosts Halloween activities. Be especially careful between 4 and 8 p.m., when most severe vehicle/young pedestrian collisions happen.

Drive slowly, and don’t pass stopped vehicles. The driver might be dropping off children.

Park your mobile phone. Avoid distractions by waiting until you’ve stopped to call, text, or surf. Get more mobile phone safety tips.

Watch for children darting into the street. Kids can cross the street anywhere, and most young pedestrian deaths happen at spots other than intersections.

Yield to young pedestrians. Children might not stop, either because they don’t see your vehicle approaching or don’t know how to safely cross the street.

Communicate with other drivers. Always use your turn signals. And if you have to pull over to drop off or pick up your kids, turn on your hazard lights.

And, to keep your own trick-or-treaters safe:
Teach them how to safely cross streets. They should look both ways and cross only at corners and crosswalks.

Consider indoor community Halloween programs for younger kids. Some communities also offer to help you inspect your kids’ treats to make sure they’re safe to eat.

Brighten them up. Give them flashlights and glow sticks, and/or use reflective tape on their costumes, so drivers can see them.

BROUGHT to you by PROGRESSIVE

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