By Denis Riek via The Global Ocean Surface Ecosystem Alliance, CC license

Pacific Garbage Patch Is Full of Life

Posted on August 8, 2023July 28, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Goodnews Network.org | By Andy Corbley | Jul 27, 2023 | Pacific Garbage Patch | Shield Insurance Blog

Pacific Garbage Patch Is Teeming With Life–An Ecosystem Older Than Plastic But No One Saw it

In the northern Pacific Ocean, a powerful ocean ‘gyre’ pulls together several ocean currents into a single region—the site of the infamous Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP).

However, longer before there was plastic waste in these waters, and in spite of it, the Northern Pacific Ocean gyre is teeming with specially-adapted marine organisms that drift through the sea.

Take this beautiful violet snail above, constructing floating bubble rafts by dipping its body into the air and trapping one bubble at a time, which it then wraps in mucus and sticks to its floater.

Scientists recently documented hundreds of different life forms all concentrated within the center of the GPGP, where 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic have created an environmental feature like no other on Earth.

A swimmer named Benoît Lecomte completed a swim of 389 miles across the GPGP in 2019 and asked the scientists at Georgetown University to accompany the support crew in order to document the sea life.

The work they did has now been published in the journal PLOS One. They found greater concentrations of wildlife inside the GPGP than on its periphery. This is not because of, but in spite of, the trillions of pieces of plastic, as these living ocean hitchhikers evolved to use ocean gyres and currents to get around over thousands of years.

Violet snails, blue button jellies, by-the-wind sailor jellies, and sea slugs called blue sea dragons that hunt the tentacles of man o’ wars to use as makeshift protection, are all found there in large numbers.

“We saw just massive amounts of life at the surface,” study senior author Rebecca Helm, a marine biologist at Georgetown University, told National Geographic. “We’ve seen so many pictures of plastic from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, but we’ve never seen any pictures of life there.”

“These places that we’ve been calling garbage patches are really important ecosystems that we know very little about.”

MORE SURPRISING OCEAN LIFE: Scientists Discover Pristine Deep-Sea Coral Reefs in Galápagos Marine Reserve ‘Teeming With Life’

The technical term for all this floating sea life is called neuston, and much of it is colored blue atop, and white beneath—a sort of camouflage Helm and her team believe.

Most of our children will never be able to see the GPGP, because it’s currently on track to be totally cleaned down to the microplastic level over the next 20 years.

Boat Insurance and What You Need to Know

Posted on August 7, 2023July 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Boat Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When you own a boat, whether it’s a small fishing boat or a luxurious yacht, it’s important to protect your investment. Boat insurance is designed to provide coverage for different types of watercraft, and in Michigan, having boat insurance is a legal requirement. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right policy that suits your needs. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

Michigan is known for its beautiful lakes and waterways, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. However, it’s important to remember that accidents can happen, and having boat insurance can provide financial protection in case of an unfortunate event.

Boat insurance policies typically provide coverage for the following:

Physical damage: Boat insurance can cover the cost of repairing or replacing your boat if it is damaged in an accident or other covered event. This includes coverage for collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism.
Liability coverage: Liability coverage is essential for boat owners as it protects you if you are responsible for causing damage to someone else’s property or injuring someone while operating your boat. This coverage can help cover legal expenses and any damages awarded in a lawsuit.
Medical payments coverage: Boat insurance can also provide coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident. This can help cover the cost of hospital bills, doctor visits, and other medical services.
Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage: If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured boater, this coverage can help cover your medical expenses and property damage.
Personal effects coverage: Boat insurance policies can also provide coverage for personal belongings that are aboard the boat, such as fishing equipment, water skis, and other gear.

It’s important to note that boat insurance policies can vary in terms of coverage, limits, and exclusions. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to review your policy with an experienced insurance agent to ensure that you have the right amount of coverage for your specific needs.

When shopping for boat insurance in Michigan, it’s important to consider the following factors:

The type and size of your boat: The type and size of your boat will impact your insurance rates. Generally, larger and more expensive boats will require higher coverage limits and will therefore have higher premiums.
The value of your boat: It’s important to insure your boat for its full value to ensure that you are adequately protected in the event of a total loss. Working with an experienced insurance agent can help you determine the appropriate value of your boat.
Your boating experience: Some insurance companies may offer discounts for boaters with a clean driving record and extensive boating experience. Make sure to inquire about any available discounts when shopping for boat insurance.
Storage and security: Insurance companies may also consider where and how your boat is stored when determining your premiums. Having a secure storage facility or anti-theft devices installed on your boat can help lower your rates.

Michigan has specific regulations and requirements for boat insurance, and it’s important to be aware of these to avoid any penalties. In Michigan, all motorized boats must be covered by liability insurance with minimum coverage limits. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and other penalties.

Boat insurance is not only a legal requirement in Michigan, but it’s also a smart investment to protect your financial well-being. Accidents can happen at any time, and the costs of repairs, medical bills, and legal expenses can be significant. Having boat insurance can provide peace of mind and help you navigate through any unforeseen circumstances.

When shopping for boat insurance in Michigan, it’s important to work with an experienced insurance agency that understands the local market and can help you find the right policy for your needs. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with options and competitive rates. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. Protect your investment and enjoy your time on the water with the right boat insurance policy.

More blogs by Shield Insurance Agency

Kayakers Swallowed By Whale Live To Tell The Tale

Posted on July 6, 2023June 12, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | June 8, 2023 | Swallowed By Whale | Life Insurance | Start A Quote Today

VIDEO: Humpback whale almost swallows kayakers near a California beach

The two managed to escape unscathed, briefly going underwater after capsizing before reemerging.

Julie McSorley says she learned an important lesson after she and her friend ended up in a humpback’s mouth: “Whales need their space.”

McSorley and Liz Cottriel were kayaking together in California’s San Luis Obispo Bay watching the whales feed on silverfish when one of the massive sea creatures surfaced beneath them, toppling their kayak and knocking them into the water.

Videos and photos from other kayakers and paddlers appear to show the women and their kayak being momentarily engulfed in the whale’s mouth — though the two friends say it all happened too fast for them to be sure.

“It’s definitely woke me up to the realization that, you know, our place is not in the feeding zone of whales,” McSorley told As It Happens host Carol Off.

“We didn’t think we were that close, but we definitely were right in the area that we shouldn’t have been — so I’ve learned my lesson, big time.”

Swallowed By Whale

AVILA BEACH, Calif. — Two whale watchers had a close encounter while kayaking off the coast of Avila Beach, California, that they will likely never forget.

Julie McSorley and Liz Cottriel were watching humpback whales on Monday when one decided to get up close and personal. A whale came up underneath them and caused them to capsize.

“I saw the big pool of fish, the big bait ball come up out of the water,” McSorley told CNN affiliate KMPH. “I saw the whale come up. I thought, ‘Oh, no! It’s too close.'”

“All of a sudden, I lifted up, and I was in the water.”

Footage from a witness nearby makes it appear as if the kayakers are being swallowed by the whale, but the two just tipped over.

“The whale was right here in my face, literally,” Cottriel told KMPH.

“I’m thinking to myself, ‘I’m gonna push. Like, I’m gonna push a whale out of the way! It was the weirdest thought. I’m thinking, ‘I’m dead. I’m dead.’ I thought it was gonna land on me. Next thing I know, I’m underwater.”

The two managed to escape unscathed, briefly going underwater after capsizing before reemerging.

Humpback whales typically feed on krill and small fish, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The NOAA says humpback whales are popular among whale watchers as they are active on the surface and often jump out and slap the water with their pectoral fins or tails.

Love your Daddy! This Sun, Jun 18, 2023, is Father’s Day!

Posted on June 16, 2023May 30, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

HISTORY.COM | MAY 15, 2023 | Father’s Day | Recreational Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

The nation’s first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in the state of Washington. However, it was not until 1972—58 years after President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day official—that the day honoring fathers became a nationwide holiday in the United States. Father’s Day 2023 will occur on Sunday, June 18.

Mother’s Day: Inspiration for Father’s Day

The “Mother’s Day” we celebrate today has its origins in the peace-and-reconciliation campaigns of the post-Civil War era. During the 1860s, at the urging of activist Ann Reeves Jarvis, one divided West Virginia town celebrated “Mother’s Work Days” which brought together the mothers of Confederate and Union soldiers.

Did you know? There are more than 70 million fathers in the United States.

However, Mother’s Day did not become a commercial holiday until 1908, when–inspired by Jarvis’s daughter, Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother by making Mother’s Day a national holiday–the John Wanamaker department store in Philadelphia sponsored a service dedicated to mothers in its auditorium.

Thanks in large part to this association with retailers, who saw great potential for profit in the holiday, Mother’s Day caught on right away. In 1909, 45 states observed the day, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson approved a resolution that made the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of “that tender, gentle army, the mothers of America.”

FEATURED

Why the Founder of Mother’s Day Turned Against It

Anna Jarvis, who founded Mother’s Day in 1908, passionately opposed its growing commercialization and eventually campaigned against the holiday.

Origins of Father’s Day

The campaign to celebrate the nation’s fathers did not meet with the same enthusiasm–perhaps because, as one florist explained, “fathers haven’t the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.”

On July 5, 1908, a West Virginia church sponsored the nation’s first event explicitly in honor of fathers, a Sunday sermon in memory of the 362 men who had died in the previous December’s explosions at the Fairmont Coal Company mines in Monongah, but it was a one-time commemoration and not an annual holiday.

The next year, a Spokane, Washington, woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, one of six children raised by a widower, tried to establish an official equivalent to Mother’s Day for male parents. She went to local churches, the YMCA, shopkeepers and government officials to drum up support for her idea, and she was successful: Washington State celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day on June 19, 1910.

Slowly, the holiday spread. In 1916, President Wilson honored the day by using telegraph signals to unfurl a flag in Spokane when he pressed a button in Washington, D.C. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge urged state governments to observe Father’s Day.

Today, the day honoring fathers is celebrated in the United States on the third Sunday of June: Father’s Day 2021 occurs on June 20.

In other countries–especially in Europe and Latin America–fathers are honored on St. Joseph’s Day, a traditional Catholic holiday that falls on March 19.

Click here to enjoy a fascinating video of several Founding Fathers

More interesting blogs by Shield Insurance Agency

Shark Attack App Uses AI to Forecast and Detect Risk for Swimmers at 89% Accuracy

Posted on June 8, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

A sophisticated app generates shark attack “forecasts” using artificial intelligence.

GoodNewsNetwork.org | By Andy Corbley | May 19, 2023 | Shark Attack | Boat Insurance

The developers are taking advantage of a deep learning algorithm to compartmentalize over a hundred years of shark attack data to create a sort-of weather forecast for beaches around the US with an 89% accuracy.

Called SafeWaters.AI, they hope not only to save lives—their primary objective—but to help reduce the persecution of sharks in response to attacks on humans.

Shark Attack Risks

The risk of shark attack is about 1 in every 3.7 million swimmers, and 60% (28) of all recorded shark attacks in the US have occurred in Florida.

As the developers point out, most consumers of news regarding AI see it employed for aspects that seem frightening or purely futuristic, such as deep fake video creation or self-driving cars.

But the ability of a targeted AI to parse out trends and forces in mountains of data lends it to working with all manner of unique applications. In this case, over a hundred years of shark attack reports are analyzed, with data points being whether it was a swimmer or surfer, where the victim was swimming, what time of day it was, what the marine weather conditions were like, and even whether they were wearing shiny jewelry.

credit SafeWaters AI

In an era where artificial intelligence is progressively transforming our daily lives, a groundbreaking app, SafeWatersAI, has arrived. This innovative application, which has recently launched its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, revolutionizes our interaction with marine environments. SafeWaters forecasts the risk of shark attacks with an impressive 89% accuracy rate. You can say it’s like a weather app, for sharkiness.

All of this contributes to the total percentage risk displayed on the app.

Currently, the project is being crowdfunded, with 5% of all future sales to be donated to ocean cleanup efforts.

Click here to read the full article and see some great photos…

Boat Insurance: Protecting Your Watercraft and Your Family

Posted on June 5, 2023May 20, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Boat Insurance | Click here to start a quote today!

Boating is a popular pastime for many families and friends, whether it’s cruising on a lake or sailing on the ocean. However, owning a boat comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities. That’s where boat insurance comes in. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of boat insurance, the different types of coverage available, and how to get a boat insurance quote.

What is Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance, also known as marine insurance, is a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for your watercraft and its passengers. It protects you financially in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your boat. Boat insurance can also cover liability, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Why Do You Need Boat Insurance?

Boat insurance is not only important for protecting your investment, but also for protecting your family and friends who may be on board. Accidents can happen on the water just as easily as they can on land, and the consequences can be just as severe. Without boat insurance, you could be held liable for damages or injuries caused by your boat.

In addition, many marinas and waterways require proof of insurance before allowing you to dock or launch your boat. Without insurance, you may not be able to use your boat in certain areas.

What Does Boat Insurance Cover?

Boat insurance policies can vary depending on the type of coverage you choose. Here are some of the most common types of coverage:

1. Liability Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are found to be at fault for an accident on the water. It can cover damages to other boats, property, or injuries to other people.

2. Collision Coverage: This type of coverage pays for damages to your boat if it collides with another boat or object.

3. Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage covers damages to your boat that are not caused by a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.

4. Medical Payments Coverage: This type of coverage pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident on the water.

5. Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you are in an accident with another boater who does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damages.

6. Yacht Insurance: Yacht insurance is a type of boat insurance that is specifically designed for larger, more expensive boats. It provides higher limits of coverage and additional features such as crew coverage and emergency towing.

How Much Does Boat Insurance Cost?

The cost of boat insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of boat, its value, and the coverage you choose. Generally, the larger and more expensive the boat, the more expensive the insurance will be. However, there are ways to lower your boat insurance cost, such as taking a boating safety course, installing safety equipment on your boat, and choosing a higher deductible.

How to Get a Quote

If you’re in the market for boat insurance, the first step is to contact an insurance agency that specializes in boat insurance. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 companies and can help you find the best coverage for your needs. To get a boat insurance quote, simply call Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 or visit their website to fill out a quote request form.

In conclusion, boat insurance is an important investment for any boat owner. It not only protects your boat but also your family and friends who may be on board. With the right coverage, you can enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today to get a boat insurance quote and start protecting your watercraft and your loved ones.

More great blogs by Shield Insurance Agency.

Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Posted on May 17, 2023May 10, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 19, 2023 | Insurance | Start a quote today!

Insurance policies can be complex and confusing, but understanding the different parts of a policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the five parts of an insurance policy: premium, deductible, policy limits, exclusions, and riders.

1. Premium: The premium is the amount you pay for your insurance coverage. It is typically paid on a monthly or annual basis and is based on several factors, including your age, location, and the type of coverage you need. The premium is the cost of your insurance policy, and it is important to choose a premium that fits your budget.

2. Deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car is damaged in an accident that costs $1,000 to repair, you will pay $500, and your insurance company will pay the remaining $500. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

3. Policy Limits: Policy limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered loss. For example, if you have a $100,000 policy limit for liability coverage and you are sued for $150,000, you will be responsible for paying the remaining $50,000. It is important to choose policy limits that are high enough to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.

4. Exclusions: Exclusions are specific situations or events that are not covered by your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that excludes flood damage, you will not be covered if your home is damaged by a flood. It is important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

5. Riders – Additional coverage and options: Riders are additional coverage options that you can add to your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that does not cover earthquake damage, you can add an earthquake rider to your policy for an additional cost. Riders can provide additional protection for specific situations that are not covered by your standard policy.

Does Your Insurance Meet Your Needs?

Understanding the different parts of an insurance policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. It is important to review your policy regularly and make changes as needed to ensure that your coverage meets your current needs. If you have questions about your insurance policy or need help choosing the right coverage, contact your insurance agent for assistance.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping our clients find the right insurance coverage for their needs. Our experienced agents can help you understand the different parts of your insurance policy and make sure that you have the coverage you need to protect your assets and your family. Contact us today to learn more about our insurance products and services.

How to Paint an Aluminum Boat

Posted on April 13, 2023April 10, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Nationwide | December 07, 2022 | Aluminum Boat | Boat Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Aluminum fishing boats and pontoon boats provide an affordable, fun way to explore the water. Records show 85,431 aluminum boats were registered in 2021 alone. [1]

Proper maintenance is key to making sure you can get ample enjoyment and use from it for years to come. To keep your aluminum boat in top condition, follow these tips for cleaning, polishing, and painting.

Clean and prepare your boat

Prior to polishing and painting your boat, make sure the surface is clean. Follow these steps to clean your aluminum boat:

1. Dry dock your aluminum boat

Pull your boat out of the water and prep a work area. This can be in a garage or a larger space that can get wet, such as a driveway or a dry-docking space at your local marina.

Elevate the boat off the ground in this workable space. If you need to use a sander or buffer, dry-dock your boat in an area where you have access to electricity.

2. Sand off loose paint and rust

If the boat has any rust, sand it off so you have a smooth surface. Depending on the sizes of the rusty patches, you might need a power sander and varying grit levels of sandpaper.

3. Wash the aluminum boat

You’ll want to clean all the grime and dust off. If you’ve waxed your boat previously, use a dewaxing solvent to remove traces of old wax. [2]

Mix mild soap and water in a spray bottle. Spray the boat and wipe it down with a sponge. This removes dirt but not hard stains. To remove tougher stains, mix a solution of 50% distilled vinegar and 50% warm water. Spray that mixture on the boat, let it sit for 60 seconds, and wipe it away.

Mild soap and vinegar are simple DIY solutions, but there are special cleaning products available too. Sometimes a stronger cleaner is necessary to remove oxidation. There are specific cleaners that can handle these dark patches, but they’re abrasive. Carefully follow the instructions on these products to keep yourself safe.

4. Rinse the boat

Grab a hose and rinse the cleaner from the boat. Be sure to use fresh water; you don’t want to use seawater or lake water. If you have the time, polish your boat once it’s dry.

Polish your boat

Follow these steps to polish your aluminum boat: [3]

1. Use aluminum boat polish

There are dozens of polishes on the market, but you need an aluminum-grade polish. You can also use an aluminum cleaner that can clean, polish, and protect your boat as an all-in-one option.

2. Apply the polish

To start, rub or paint the polish on the boat. You can do this by hand or with a power buffer. Polishing by hand can be rewarding, but it’s labor-intensive and can be more time-consuming. A power buffer can get the job done efficiently and quickly. However, you still might need to hand-buff nooks and crannies.

3. Work in small sections

Apply polish to small sections of the boat, working to completely cover each area before moving on to the next. Results should be instant as you work the polishing compound into the boat’s surface.

4. Check the boat

After applying the polish all over the boat, take a walk around it to make sure you haven’t missed any spots.

5. Let the polish dry

Let the polish dry completely, which usually takes 5 to 20 minutes. Be sure to check the instructions for your polish for the exact drying time. Wipe the boat down with a clean, dry cloth. [4]

Paint your aluminum boat

After your boat’s surface has been cleaned and polished it is ready to be painted. Plan for this project to take a few days. Follow these steps to paint an aluminum boat: [5]

1. Find a location for painting

Try to start this project when the weather forecast says there will be a few days of rain-free weather. Pick a work area that’s outside. It’s important that the work area is away from cars and buildings. Put a piece of plastic down to catch dripping paint. Elevate the boat so you have access to all areas of the hull.

2. Prepare the surface for paint

Before painting, remove rust, dirt, chipping paint, old wax and polish. Depending on the amount of rust present, you may need a power sander to create a smooth surface. Once you’ve removed rust, clean the boat by following the cleaning steps above.

3. Apply primer

Apply a self-etching, oil-based primer that sticks to aluminum surfaces. [6] Using a brush or a sprayer, apply a thin layer of primer inside the boat. Let it dry and then paint the outside. Let the primer dry overnight, or for at least 12 hours, before moving on to the painting process.

4. Apply aluminum boat paint

Choose a water-resistant marine paint that adheres to aluminum. Using a sprayer or brush, paint the inside of the boat first. Paint in horizontal strokes for an even coat. The inside coat should dry for around 12 hours before you paint the exterior. The outside coat needs to dry for the same amount of time. You may decide to add a second layer of paint to the boat for protection. If so, make sure the paint dries completely between applications.

5. Apply a clear coat

Once the painting is finished, apply a clear protective coat. This layer helps keep the paint intact and prevents scratches. Check the product label to determine how long this coat will need to cure before you put the boat in the water again.

A fresh layer of paint will help protect the exterior of your boat, but this is not the only way to protect it. Another component of caring for your boat is having boat insurance. Find out whether you need boat insurance before you put your boat in the water.

Frequently asked questions

Can you paint over old paint on an aluminum boat?

Painting over old paint on an aluminum boat is not advised; however, there are a few key things to consider if you do attempt it.

What type of paint was the old paint? Will the new paint adhere or react to it?
Is the old paint flaking or peeling? If so, the new paint won’t have a good surface to stick to.
Are you planning on sanding the old paint surface or chemically preparing it for a fresh coat of paint?

If you know the paint types and there are no conflicts, it’s recommended that you sand the hull prior to painting so that the loose paint will flake off. [7]

Should you paint the bottom of an aluminum boat?

While many might think painting the bottom of your boat unnecessary, it’s actually an essential part of protecting your aluminum row boat from the elements. When choosing your bottom paint, make sure to pick one that is specifically designed for aluminum boats, as some bottom paints can cause corrosion on aluminum. In general, you’ll want to apply two coats for the best results. [8]

How to clean a painted aluminum boat

Maintaining your boat’s condition is important to keep it clean, especially for an aluminum boat, which can be easily damaged by dirt and algae. Follow the steps below to clean your painted aluminum boat:

Remove the boat cover, motor, and any other large items
Hose down the entire boat
Scrub the hull with a smooth brush that won’t damage the paint
Rinse the hull with clean water at a low pressure
Dry the hull with a cloth
Inspect the hull for any remaining dirt or debris
Let the boat dry completely
Wax the boat

Cleaning a painted aluminum boat isn’t difficult, but it does require special care. Avoid using harsh chemicals, and be sure to use the proper detergents and brushes. Waxing the boat will help create a barrier that will protect the paint from scratches and rust. [9]

Protect your boat

You have made this investment in your aluminum boat and carefully painted and cleaned it; now you need to protect it. Why? Boat insurance can be the difference between navigating a crisis peacefully and needing to pay tens of thousands of dollars if things go wrong. It could also protect against third-party liability for damage caused by you and your boat, which may be the bare minimum protection required to moor in your marina. Ultimately, boat insurance will give you peace of mind knowing you’re protected while you’re out on the water, no matter what occurs. [10]

Sources

[1] “The Glass is Still Half Full,” tradeonlytoday.com/columns-blogs/the-glass-is-still-half-full (July 18, 2022).

[2] “Polishing an Aluminum Boat [Guide],” boatlife.com/boatlife-blog/polishing-an-aluminum-boat-guide (accessed Aug. 4, 2022).

[3] “Cleaning an Aluminum Boat with Vinegar,” pontoonopedia.com/cleaning-aluminum-boat-vinegar (June 11, 2018). x

[4] “6 Steps to Painting Aluminum Boats,” chiyachtrefinishing.com/blogs/6-steps-to-painting-aluminum-boats (June 20, 2018).

[5] “How to Paint an Aluminum Jon Boat,” bottompaintstore.com/blog/aluminum-application/paint-jon-boat (accessed Aug. 4, 2022).

[6] “How to Paint a Boat,” boats.com/how-to/how-to-paint-a-boat (April 14, 2021).

[7] “How To Paint Over Your Aluminum Boat (Step-by-Step),” watercraft101.com/how-to-paint-aluminum-boat (accessed Aug. 4, 2022).

[8] “How to Apply Bottom Paint to an Aluminum Boat,” bottompaintstore.com/blog/aluminum-application/how-to-apply-bottom-paint-to-an-aluminum-boat (accessed Aug. 4, 2022).

[9] “How To Clean Painted Aluminum Boat? Complete Guide,” emozzy.com/how-to-clean-painted-aluminum-boat (April 9, 2022).

[10] “Why Boat Insurance Is Important & How To Obtain It,” wavetechpowersports.com/why-boat-insurance-is-important-how-to-obtain-it (accessed Aug. 4, 2022).

Disclaimer:

The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates, and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2022 Nationwide and Shield Insurance Agency.

Top Five Uses for a Trailer Hitch

Posted on March 27, 2023March 24, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Foremost | by Rachel Neva | Trailer Hitch | Auto Insurance | Click here to start a quote today!

A trailer hitch just might be the most inventive way to add more cargo space, value, and extra opportunities for fun to your vehicle. While some vehicles like trucks and SUVs may come with a factory-installed hitch or tow package, it’s very common for drivers to install a hitch or tow package to their vehicle as an after-market accessory.

Wondering what the difference between a hitch and a tow package is? Depending on what you plan to tow, you may need more than a standard hitch with a trailer ball attached to your vehicle. In addition to the tow hitch itself, a tow package (especially if it’s factory-installed) may include things like a wiring harness and circuitry to power the lights and accessories on a trailer, heavy-duty suspension and brakes to handle the extra weight, an enhanced engine and transmission cooling system, larger battery and alternator to help power your vehicle and what you’re towing with ease, and additional driver-assistance systems that can help with overall spatial awareness while towing.

Depending on what you’re towing and where you’re going, this article provides some helpful information if you’re deciding between a factory-installed tow package or an aftermarket tow package for your vehicle.

If you’re thinking about adding a hitch to your vehicle … here are our top five uses for a trailer hitch:

Hitch-mounted bike rack — If you like to hit the mountain bike trails, go on scenic family bike rides in your area, or take bikes along on family vacations, a hitch-mounted bike rack is an easy way to transport bicycles of all kinds. While this type of bike rack extends the overall length of your vehicle (something to be aware of when parking), loading and unloading bikes can be much easier than bike racks that are mounted on a vehicle’s roof.
Utility trailer — A small utility trailer can be ideal for many towing tasks such as hauling plants and supplies for a garden or landscape project (and any debris resulting) or moving large items that won’t fit in your vehicle, like furniture or appliances.
Travel trailer — From pop-up camper trailers to luxury, fifth-wheel travel trailers, there’s a camping travel trailer to fit almost every kind of person who enjoys camping and exploring the great outdoors.
Boat trailer — If you don’t live on a lake or body of water but want to take nearly any kind of boat — a small fishing boat, a ski or wake boat, a pontoon or sailboat – out on the water, you’ll need a trailer that’s specific to the boat. Unless you have a boat slip at a marina that offers haul-out and storage service, you’ll likely need a trailer for your boat at some point.
Off-road vehicle trailer — There are many types of off-road vehicle trailers from simple, utility-type trailers for things like ORVs and off-road motorcycles to enclosed cargo-type trailers for ORVs and snowmobiles. If you like to explore new trails on your ORV or snowmobile, you may want to invest in a trailer to haul them with you wherever you go.

If you add a trailer hitch to your vehicle and have questions about insuring the things that you’ll tow, give Shield Insurance A call to shop for coverages that can help you protect the things you tow.

Four things you might not realize about boat insurance

Posted on March 27, 2023April 10, 2023 by admin

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Purchasing boat insurance is important for boat owners in Michigan. Shield Insurance Agency provides boat insurance policies that can cover your watercraft.

Before you buy boat insurance, it’s a good idea to spend some time researching how boat insurance works and what the different coverage options are.

The following are four things you might not realize about boat insurance.

A boat insurance policy typically offers some coverage for belongings in your boat.

If you keep valuable items in your boat, these items can be covered up to a certain amount by your boat insurance policy.

Boat insurance is frequently required by marinas.

You aren’t required by law to have boat insurance in Michigan. However, boat owners often need coverage because it is a requirement of the marina they use to store their boats.

Boat insurance policies specify a certain geographic area.

Boat owners need to realize that they won’t be covered if they travel in their boat outside of the coverage region that’s specified by their policy. That’s why it’s important for boat owners to let their boat insurance provider know where they’ll be traveling with their boat when they buy their policy.

A number of boat insurance policy add-ons are available.

When you buy a boat insurance policy, you may want to take advantage of various policy add-ons. Add-ons available for boat insurance policies include coverage for dock contract liabilities, ice and freezing issues, towing, boat trailers, and equipment like fishing tackle.

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Do you have questions about boat insurance coverage in Michigan? Get in touch with us at Shield Insurance Agency to learn more about boat insurance coverage. Contact us today for a policy quote!

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