April Showers Bring.... Wet Basements?

With spring upon us and the potential for showers soon starting, there may be some wet basements and properties this spring season.  What can you do to prepare?  First - review your insurance policy!

Grab yourself a cup of coffee, find a comfortable seat on the sofa, and take a few minutes to look for this very important rainy day coverage:  Backup of Sewer or Drain.

If you have a basement, that's below ground level, chances are you have a sump pump to help keep the water out.  Sump pump failures often occur during power outages or periods of heavy rain or melting snow.  When the sump pump fails, water can back up into your home.  If you have a finished basement, the damage can be extensive as water can seep into your furniture, floors, walls, and damage your electronic appliances.

On most Homeowners Insurance policies, coverage for this type of loss is EXCLUDED unless you purchase Backup of Sewer and Drain coverage.  it's important to check your policy to see if it's on there.  If you cannot find it, call your insurance agent and ask them to add it.  The additional coverage is relatively inexpensive and ranges from $50 to $100 per year, depending on the limit you choose.  It is an invaluable coverage.

In the event of a sump pump failure, you'll want to do everything you can to get the water cleaned up, and the space dried out, as quickly as possible.  If there is a lot of water you should consider calling Alliance Disaster Kleenup.  ADK has been taking care of the Chicagoland area for over a decade.  Waiting too long to clean up the water can cause mold problems which can be very costly to remediate.

After you have contacted Alliance Disaster Kleenup to discuss the situation and the extent of the damage - they will come out to your property and perform an inspection.  After the inspection, you should know where the source of the loss started, and steps needed to get your property back to pre-loss condition.  Based on this inspection, you should have an idea if the damage is extensive enough to file a claim or not.

Of course you may also want to inquire about Flood Insurance with your Insurance Agent.  This coverage needs to be in place 30 days before flooding starts, so the time is NOW to make that phone call and get this coverage.  Having the correct insurance coverage in place is extremely important.  This is one area in life that you do not want to skimp on.  Adding $100 a year can literally save you thousands of dollars in the event of a loss.  This is less than $2 per week, but it is also amazing the number of people that don't think they need the extra coverage.  Until it's too late.

Contact ADK Toll Free at: 1-800-499-5921  24/7/365

Veteran's Day

Top 10 ways to honor a veteran on Veterans Day


Americans celebrate Memorial Day in the spring and Veterans Day in the fall. While it can be easy to confuse the two holidays, Memorial Day is set aside to honor American’s war dead; Veterans Day is intended to honor the service of all U.S. veterans, both living and dead.
In fact, celebrations surrounding Veterans Day often place a special emphasis on thanking all living U.S. military veterans who have or are currently serving in any U.S. armed service.  And it’s the perfect time for all Americans to show appreciation for their service.
The best way to thank a military U.S. veteran for his or her service depends on the individual and his or her needs. But the most important thing is to do something to show your gratitude.


Here are 10 ideas to get you thinking about how to be grateful for veterans on November 11.
1. Raise. Display the American flag in your yard to demonstrate your support of veterans everywhere.
2. Listen. Strike up a conversation with a disabled or homeless veteran and be an active listener as you hear about their experience.
3. Speak. Simply say, “Thank you” to veterans you see.
4. Reach out. Contact a disabled or homeless veteran whom you know and spend some quality time together.
5. Support. Send a donation to organizations that support the special needs of veterans.
6. Find. Trace your ancestry and identify how many veterans are in your family.
7. Write. Send a letter to someone who’s currently serving in the military.
8. Visit. Visit a disabled veteran in his or her home or a homeless veteran on the street.
9. Learn. Educate yourself on the challenges veterans face when retiring from service to rejoin civilian life.
10. Share. Use your social media to help celebrate Veteran’s Day and acknowledge the service of all veterans.


To learn more ways to honor a veteran on November 11, visit http://www.wallawalla.va.gov/Misc/Honor_Veteran.asp. 


To all our American heroes, we at the Mars Insurance Agency thank you for your service to our country.


Did you know? Veteran’s Day is always celebrated on November 11, regardless of the day of the week. It’s also a federal holiday, so federal government employees take the day off on Monday if the 11th falls on a Sunday, and they take the day off on Friday if the 11th falls on a Saturday.


Contact Us!
At Mars Insurance, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 815-459-0711 or send us a note at marsinsurance@marsinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!


Content provided by Safeco Insurance

Night Driving Dangers

A little extra caution can go a long way while driving at night.


Summer has ended, and while fall and winter have their own pleasures — including high school football games and evening hayrides — longer nights mean increased danger on the roads.


You might think you drive just as well at night, but consider this: Even though nighttime driving accounts for just 23% of vehicle miles traveled, more than 50% of fatalities for vehicle occupants 16 and older occur between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., according to the National Safety Commission (NSC).


Because we’re big advocates for safety at Mars Insurance, we thought it would be helpful to take a look at why night driving is more dangerous, and what you can do to decrease that danger.






What’s dangerous about night driving?
1. Decreased vision. We won’t go into all the biological details, but different parts of the eye (such as iris, pupil and retina) work differently at night. Your peripheral vision is actually slightly improved, but it’s more difficult to focus on objects ahead of you. And traveling between well-lit areas and darker roads creates issues as well.

2. Driving too fast for your headlights. Depending on vehicle speed and headlight setting, many people “over-drive” their headlights. That means, by the time they see something on the road, it’s too late to stop in time to avoid it.

3. Impaired judgment. Whether due to drowsiness or the use of alcohol or drugs, it appears that drivers at night often don’t use good judgment. According to the NSC, 66% of fatalities at night involve vehicle occupants who weren’t wearing seat belts. 






So what do you do?
Sometimes, there’s no way around driving at night. So here are some tips to help you make a safe trip — whether you’re just running to the store, or you’re headed all the way to and from a Bears game.

1. Make sure your vehicle’s lights are in good working condition. And not just headlights, but turn signals, taillights, etc.

2. Avoid speeding. Leave a bigger cushion between you and other cars than you would during daylight hours. Leave yourself more time for the trip.

3. Be more aware of your surroundings. You shouldn’t be using your phone, messing around with the radio or trying to find something on the floor while you’re on the road anyway — and distractions are even more deadly at night.




Of course, if you’re not comfortable driving at night, the best thing is to avoid it altogether if possible. There’s nothing wrong with asking for a ride from a trusted safe driver or waiting for the sun to come out!




Sidebar:
We’re open all day!
When you’re driving around during the day, stop in to Mars Insurance for a review of your coverage. We won’t keep you after dark, we promise. Just give us a call at 815-459-0711. We’re here to help!


Contact Us!


Content provided by Safeco Insurance

Fire Hazard - From 9-Volt Batteries

Do you have a “junk drawer” somewhere in your house?  Most people do, and most of us probably don’t give a second thought to what we put in it.  We probably should since there may be items that, when thrown in together, can start a fire.  People have all sorts of stuff in a “junk drawer.”  One of those things could cause a fire, such as a 9-volt battery.

In a demonstration, items like keys, the clip of a pen and paper clips were put on a 9-volt battery and set next to a tissue.  In minutes, the battery heated up.  In approximately 10 minutes, the tissue had already browned.  The same process works even faster with steel wool.



There are easy solutions.  Just take a piece of electrical tape and put it across the battery posts.  It’s a simple move to protect your house from a common, but very real risk.  Experts also say it’s dangerous to store 9-volt batteries in containers with other batteries, as this can also cause a fire.



Article taken from Standard Mutual Insurance Company News & Views – May, 2014

Backyard Safety Tips #

The Grill

1.        Keep barbecue grills on a level surface away from the house, garage, landscaping and children.
2.       Wear a heavy apron and use a long-armed oven mitt to protect yourself.
3.       Let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
4.       Remember that grills remain hot long after you are through barbecuing.

Play Sets

1.        Have adult supervision on hand while children are playing on the equipment.
2.       Regularly check the equipment for sturdiness, rusty bolts and wood rot, and make necessary repairs.
3.       Ensure that play sets do not have openings between pieces that could trap a child’s head or neck.
4.       Place play sets securely on level ground and on wood chips or other soft materials to cushion and help prevent injuries.



Information taken from Travelers Insurance

Lawn Care Safety Tips

Lawn Mowers

1.        Read the mower’s manual, heed safety and operating instructions and learn the controls.

2.       Children should be at least 12 years old before operating a push lawn mower, and age 16 to operate a driving lawn mower.

3.       Do not allow children to ride as passengers on a lawn mower, and be sure to keep children out of the yard while mowing.

4.       Clean up toys and other objects, such as rocks, from the yard to help prevent injuries from flying objects.

5.       Never leave a running mower unattended.

6.       Never operate the mower in an enclosed place where carbon monoxide can collect.

7.       Never unclog or work on a lawn mower while the engine is on or when the spark plug is connected.  Doing this puts the user at risk for being injured by the blade.

8.       Wear non-slip shoes, long pants and ear plugs for protection.


(Information taken from Travelers Insurance Insights)




Frank Zimmerman, CIC
Mars Insurance Agency, Inc
815-459-0711
Fax:  815-459-1174

April Showers Bring... Wet Basements?

With spring upon us and the potential for showers soon starting, there may be some wet basements and properties this spring season. What can you do to prepare?  First- review your insurance policy!
Grab yourself a cup of coffee, find a comfortable seat on the sofa, and take a few minutes to look for this very important rainy day coverage:  Backup of Sewer or Drain.

If you have a basement that’s below ground level, chances are you have a sump pump to help keep the water out.  Sump pump failures often occur during power outages or periods of heavy rain or melting snow.  When the sump pump fails, water can back up into your home.  If you have a finished basement, the damage can be extensive as water can seep into your furniture, floors, walls, and damage your electronic appliances.

On most Homeowners insurance policies, coverage for this type of loss is EXCLUDED unless you purchase Backup of Sewer and Drain coverage.  It’s important to check your policy to see if it’s on there.  If you cannot find it, call your insurance agent and ask them to add it.  The additional coverage is relatively inexpensive and ranges from $50 to $100 per year, depending on the limit you choose.  It is an invaluable coverage.

In the event of a sump pump failure, you’ll want to do everything you can to get the water cleaned up, and the space dried out, as quickly as possible.  If there is a lot of water you should consider calling Alliance Disaster Kleenup.  ADK has been taking care of the Chicagoland area for over a decade.  Waiting too long to clean up the water can cause mold problems which can be very costly to remediate.

After you have contacted Alliance Disaster Kleenup to discuss the situation and the extent of the damage- they will come out to your property and perform an inspection.  After the inspection, you should know where the source of loss started, and steps needed to get your property back to pre-loss condition. Based on this inspection, you should have an idea if the damage is extensive enough to file a claim or not.

Of course you may also want to inquire about Flood Insurance with your Insurance Agent.  This coverage needs to be in place 30 days before flooding starts, so the time is NOW to make that phone call and get this coverage.
Having the correct insurance coverage in place is extremely important. This is one area in life that you do not want to skimp on. Adding $100 a year can literally save you thousands of dollars in the event of a loss.  This is less than $2 per week, but it is also amazing the number of people that don’t think they need the extra coverage.  Until it’s too late.

Information provided by Alliance Disaster Kleenup.  Mars Insurance makes no recommendation or warranty for the services of Alliance Disaster Kleenup.  Many companies provide the same type of services, and we recommend contacting several to obtain comparison quotations and recommendations.

Jewelry Protection

Have some new jewelry in the house? Protect it!


Ah, Valentine’s Day is near, and love is in the air. Well, love and a few other things, such as chocolates, romantic dinners, candy hearts that say “Be Mine” - and, of course, jewelry.

It’s exciting to receive jewelry from a loved one — or to give it as a gift. Not to mention romantic. But if you’re lucky enough to have some new jewelry in your Illinois home this Valentine’s Day, you should take a few minutes to think about something you probably don’t find exciting or romantic: insurance.

Don’t know where to turn? Don’t worry. at Mars Insurance Agency, we think it is exciting to help our customers protect what’s most important to them — so we’re ready to help and can answer all of your questions.

Things to consider when insuring jewelry: 

You may need to purchase additional coverage. Your homeowners policy covers valuable items such as jewelry only up to set amounts. If the cost of replacing your jewelry exceeds that limit, you will want to purchase scheduled personal property coverage. You can check your policy or give us a call at 815-459-0711.

You might want to reconsider your deductible amounts. As always, this impacts your policy premium. It’s a good idea to take a look at your deductibles whenever you make a change to your policy.

Do you need an appraisal? You may need to have an independent appraisal if the insurance company requires it or if you don’t know the value of your jewelry. Each item should be listed with a description and value on paper.

What kind of coverage is offered? You’ll want to determine if items are covered no matter where they are, whether they’re in Crystal Lake, or on an international trip, and if the policy offers full replacement cost. You also should ask if you will be required to replace your jewelry if lost or stolen, or if you can simply keep the cash settlement.

Pictures can be helpful. Lost or stolen pieces of jewelry sometimes can be recreated if the jeweler has a good photograph to work from.

Should I go with a company that specializes in jewelry insurance? There are companies that specialize in jewelry insurance. Whether you choose one of these, or a company that we represent, you’ll want to make sure they are reputable and stable.

Is the value of your jewelry mainly sentimental? Is an item irreplaceable? If the answer to either of these questions is “yes,” you might consider foregoing insurance. But please, talk to us at 815-459-0711 before making that decision. That’s what we’re here for.

Of course, it’s important to store your jewelry securely when it’s not in use; a safe in your home or a safe-deposit box is best. We want your jewelry to be replaced if it’s lost or stolen, but we’d rather your sentimental and valuable pieces stay with you and your family for years to come.

Here’s hoping your Valentine’s Day is full of fun and romance. And if there’s no jewelry involved, well, there’s always next year!

Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Mars Insurance Agency at 815-459-0711 or marsinsurance@marsinsurance.com.

Content provided by Safeco Insurance

What You Don't Know About Smoke Detectors Could Save Your Life!

The facts are clear that smoke detectors in your home are important.  In fact, not having a functional smoke alarm doubles your chances of dying in a house fire.  And, two-thirds of all fire-related deaths happen in homes without functional smoke detectors.

So, if you're like 96% of the nation's homes, you have at least one smoke alarm.  And because you are concerned about minimizing fire risk you change the battery twice a year when we set the clocks back and forward.  You can rest easy knowing that you're protected, right?

The answer is maybe and maybe not.  It all depends on the type of smoke alarms you have.

The Two Types of Smoke Alarms
Most residential smoke alarms utilize either ionization or photoelectric technology.  And while you may think that "a smoke alarm is a smoke alarm" there are crucial differences in the ways these two technologies respond to fires.

About 90 percent of installed alarms are ionization type smoke detectors which are typically more responsive to fast flaming fires such as stovetop or cooking fires.  These types of fires often occur when people are awake and can more easily escape.

Photoelectric smoke detectors are typically more responsive to smoldering fires in living spaces where furniture, mattresses and synthetic materials generally burn more slowly with a long period of smoldering before they erupt into open flames.  These fires often start overnight when occupants are likely asleep.

Here's the critical difference between these two types of smoke detectors:

On average, ionization smoke detectors respond about 30 seconds faster to an open-flame fire than photoelectric alarms and in a flaming fire there can be little time to spare.

In a smoldering fire, however, ionization units may respond on average 30 to 60 minutes slower than a photoelectric unit.  In some cases, ionization smoke detectors may not always alarm even when a room is filled with smoke from a smoldering fire.

Photoelectric detectors can provide a lot more warning time than ionization detectors in a smoldering fire.  While smoldering fires account for only about 12 percent of fires, they also account for more than half of fire-related deaths and a third of fire-related injuries (most residential fire fatalities occur at night and are the result of smoke inhalation).

Changes in building materials and furnishings over the past decades have reduced the time available for safe escape in any fire so having the proper warning of either a smoldering fire or an open flame fire as early as possible is absolutely critical.

Another Problem with Ionization Smoke Alarms
A recent Alaskan nuisance alarm study indicated that 92% of homes with ionization smoke alarms experienced nuisance alarms compared to only 11% with photoelectric smoke alarms.  The reason this is important is that occupants disable ionization smoke alarms by removing the batteries because of frequent nuisance alarming.  And a disarmed smoke alarm is, obviously, useless.  In fact, homes with non-functional smoke alarms account for close to two-thirds of all fire-related deaths.

What Type of Smoke Detectors Should I Have?

You should perform your own research before making a final decision, but consider that the Consumer Products Safety commission says that best protection when it comes to smoke alarms is to:

   - Install a working smoke alarm on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms

   - Install both ionization and photoelectric type smoke alarms

   - Install interconnected smoke alarms

   - Install smoke alarms using house wiring with battery back-up

The data is clear that having both ionization and separate photoelectric smoke alarms provides the best protection from both fast moving flaming fires and smoldering fires.

Consider that the National Fire Protection Association, Consumer Products Safety Commission, United States Fire Administration, National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Association of State Fire Marshals all recommend having both types of smoke alarms installed.

Additional Features to Consider in Your Smoke Alarm

Interconnected Alarms: This type of alarm causes all the interconnected alarms in the home to alert if one has detected smoke.  For example, if a fire starts in the basement all the alarms in the house, including those on the upper bedroom level will sounds which may give occupants additional escape time.  Interconnected systems can be hard wired or are available using wireless technology.

Talking Alarms: There are now talking alarms that not just sound an alarm but "speak" to you alerting you to the detected hazard.

Kids and Your Escape Plan

Remember that many children will sleep through smoke alarms!  Do not assume they will awaken and find their way out of the house.  Make sure everyone in your family knows how to escape when the smoke alarm goes off, whether they are awake or asleep.

Courtesy of:

Alliance Disaster Kleenup 

574 Wheeling Road, Wheeling, IL  60090 

P: 847-205-2100  F: 847-205-4100  

www.adk911.com

10 Ways to Winterize Your Home — Now

1. Clean those gutters
Once the leaves fall, remove them and other debris from your home's gutters -- by hand, by scraper or spatula, and finally by a good hose rinse -- so that winter's rain and melting snow can drain. Clogged drains can form ice dams, in which water backs up, freezes and causes water to seep into the house, the Insurance Information Institute says. As you're hosing out your gutters, look for leaks and misaligned pipes. Also, make sure the downspouts are carrying water away from the house's foundation, where it could cause flooding or other water damage.

2. Block those leaks
One of the best ways to winterize your home is to simply block obvious leaks around your house, both inside and out, experts say. The average American home has leaks that amount to a nine square-foot hole in the wall, according to EarthWorks Group.
First, find the leaks: On a breezy day, walk around inside holding a lit incense stick to the most common drafty areas: recessed lighting, window and door frames, electrical outlets. Then, buy door sweeps to close spaces under exterior doors, and caulk or apply tacky rope caulk to those drafty spots. Outlet gaskets can easily be installed in electrical outlets that share a home's outer walls, where cold air often enters. Outside, seal leaks with weather-resistant caulk. For brick areas, use masonry sealer, which will better stand up to freezing and thawing.

3. Insulate yourself
Another thing that does cost a little money -- but boy, you do get the money back quick -- is adding insulation to the existing insulation in the attic. You need a minimum of 12 inches of insulation in your attic."

4. Check the furnace
First; turn your furnace on now, to make sure it's even working, before the coldest weather descends. A strong, odd, short-lasting smell is natural when firing up the furnace in the autumn; simply open windows to dissipate it. But if the smell lasts a long time, shut down the furnace and call a professional. It's a good idea to have furnaces cleaned and tuned annually. Throughout the winter you should change the furnace filters regularly (check them monthly). A dirty filter impedes air flow, reduces efficiency and could even cause a fire in an extreme case. Toss out the dirty fiberglass filters; reusable electrostatic or electronic filters can be washed.

5. Get your ducts in a row
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a home with central heating can lose up to 60% of its heated air before that air reaches the vents if ductwork is not well-connected and insulated, or if it must travel through unheated spaces. That's a huge amount of wasted money, not to mention a chilly house.
Ducts aren't always easy to see, but you can often find them exposed in the attic, the basement and crawlspaces. Repair places where pipes are pinched, which impedes flow of heated air to the house, and fix gaps with a metal-backed tape (duct tape actually doesn't stand up to the job over time). Ducts also should be vacuumed once every few years, to clean out the abundant dust, animal hair and other gunk that can gather in them and cause respiratory problems.

6. Face your windows
Now, of course, is the time to take down the window screens and put up storm windows, which provide an extra layer of protection and warmth for the home. Storm windows are particularly helpful if you have old, single-pane glass windows. Update windows when needed.

7. Don't forget the chimney
Ideally, spring is the time to think about your chimney, because chimney sweeps are going crazy in the fall. That said; don't put off your chimney needs before using your fireplace. A common myth is that a chimney needs to be swept every year," says Eldridge. Not true. But a chimney should at least be inspected before use each year.

8. Reverse that fan
Reversing your ceiling fan is a small tip that people don't often think of. By reversing its direction from the summer operation, the fan will push warm air downward and force it to recirculate, keeping you more comfortable.

9. Wrap those pipes
A burst pipe caused by a winter freeze is a nightmare. Prevent it before Jack Frost sets his grip: Before freezing nights hit, make certain that the water to your hose bibs is shut off inside your house (via a turnoff valve), and that the lines are drained. Next, go looking for other pipes that aren't insulated, or that pass through unheated spaces -- pipes that run through crawlspaces, basements or garages. Wrap them with pre-molded foam rubber sleeves or fiberglass insulation, available at hardware stores. If you're really worried about a pipe freezing, you can first wrap it with heating tape, which is basically an electrical cord that emits heat.

10. Finally, check those alarms
This is a great time to check the operation -- and change the batteries -- on your home's smoke detectors. Detectors should be replaced every 10 years, fire officials say. Test them -- older ones in particular -- with a small bit of actual smoke, and not just by pressing the "test" button. Check to see that your fire extinguisher is still where it should be, and still works.

Information provided by Alliance Disaster Kleenup Wheeling, IL 

Cholesterol: Do You Know Your Numbers?

Do you know your cholesterol levels? About 1 of every 3 adult Americans has high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
Without even making you feel sick, high cholesterol can clog your blood vessels and contribute to a heart attack or stroke.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is known as “bad” cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as “good” cholesterol. LDL, HDL, triglycerides and Lp(a) cholesterol make up your total cholesterol count.

To find out what your cholesterol levels are, ask your doctor for a blood test called a lipid panel. The American Heart Association suggests that adults age 20 and older have a fasting lipoprotein profile every five years. This test is done after a nine- to 12-hour fast.
For most adults, the numbers should be:
Total cholesterol: • 200 or lower
• LDL (“bad”) cholesterol: Lower than 130
• HDL (“good”) cholesterol: Higher than 60
• Triglycerides: Lower than 150
Talk with your doctor about your results and how often you should be tested. Some people who are already at a higher risk for heart disease may have different targets for their levels than those listed above.

High LDLs are a major risk factor for coronary heart disease. The problem is the build up of plaque, which is made up of cholesterol, fats and other things in the blood, inside the heart’s arteries. Blood vessel linings are usually smooth and strong. When plaque builds up, the vessels narrow. The vessel walls are also weakened. This can cause cracks in the lining that attract blood clots, blocking the flow of blood to the heart even more. If the blood supply to the heart is severely reduced, you could have a heart attack. If your numbers are borderline or high, you can make lifestyle changes to help you lower your levels and your risk for heart disease by eating a healthy diet, controlling your weight
and exercising regularly.

An important step to healthier eating is looking at food labels. Be on the lookout for trans fats, such as hydrogenated oils in baked goods, and saturated fats in high-fat meat and dairy products. Choose plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat milk products, lean meat and poultry without skin, and unsaturated vegetable oils such as canola and olive oil.

And for dessert, take a walk after dinner. Exercise can help lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol, which can help keep you healthy.

www.marsinsurance.com/#health

Information courtesy of Blue Cross Blue Shield

The Homeowners Policy & College Students

Each year, late summer brings a milestone for many families – sending a child off to college.  It is certainly a time of adjustment for parents and their young adults alike.  It is also a time for reviewing the new insurance exposures that arise from having college students.

Having a child in college creates a number of insurance exposures which can impact several areas of a homeowner’s policy.  A few of the more asked about exposures are addressed here:

Personal Property Taken to College
Coverage C for Personal Property applies to “personal property owned or used by an insured while it is anywhere in the world”.  As broad as this coverage is, it does refer to personal property of an “INSURED”. “INSURED” definition is those who are “residents of your household who are your relatives”.  Therefore, for a kid in college to be considered an “insured”, they must still be a “resident” of your household.  While the word “resident” is somewhat ambiguous and has many definitions, the vast majority of courts hold kids in college to be residents of mom and/or dad’s house.

Even though most kids in college are considered insured’s under mom and/or dad’s Homeowners Policy, there is a limitation on the amount of Coverage C available for the property they take with them.  The Homeowners Policy provides that only 10% of Coverage C, or $1,000, whichever is greater, applies for “personal property usually located at an insured’s residence, other than the residence primary premises”.

Liability Coverage for Kids
The insuring agreement for Liability provides coverage for bodily injury and property damage claims brought against an “insured”.  As discussed above, in most cases, kids are considered insured’s under mom and/or dad’s Homeowners Policy, and thus are protected under Coverage E – Liability and under Coverage F – Medical Payments, giving them personal liability coverage worldwide.

Premises Liability for Rented Dorm, Apartment or Rental House

While most college kids receive “insured” status for their personal liability, the Homeowners Policy has limitations on which premises are covered for liability that arises out of the premises.  Most policies contain exclusions for Claims “arising out of a premises owned by an insured, rented to an insured, or rented to others by an insured, that is not an insured location”. While a dorm room, by its nature, fits the definition of an “insured location”, to avoid any uncertainty regarding whether or not a rental house or rental apartment is considered an “insured location”, these secondary residences should be added to a Homeowners policy as insured locations.  So be sure to contact your insurance agent to make sure these locations are covered.

Liability for Damage to a Rented Dorm, Apartment or Rental House

Property coverage cannot be extended to provide coverage for damage to a rented dorm, apartment, or rental house.  As for coverage for property damage liability, there is limited coverage.  Contained within the policy is an exclusion for “property damage to property rented to, occupied or used by or in the care of the insured.  This exclusion does not apply to property damage caused by fire, smoke or explosion”.

Note:  Please be aware that every claim situation is different and every loss scenario has its own unique set of circumstances.  Coverage for a specific loss will be determined based on actual coverage purchased and is subject to all of the terms and conditions of the insurance policy that is in force at the time of loss.

This information provided to us by our friends at Standard Mutual Insurance.

Insuring Your Bicycle

With gas prices being elevated, beautiful summer weather surrounds us and vacations occurring, I am seeing more people taking the time to ride bikes. Many of whom ride to work daily to save the gas expense, some ride merely for the enjoyment while others for exercise.

If you are one of the many people who take time to ride, perhaps you have invested in a higher quality bike.  Did you ever think about how that bike might be covered by insurance?

Our friends at the Insurance Information Institute (III) have provided the following helpful information for all you cyclists out there.

A bike can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a basic model to several thousand dollars for a fast, light racing bike. In 2010 (the most recent data available) there was over $6 billion in bicycle sales in the United States, according to the National Bike Dealers Association.

Fortunately, bicycles are covered under the personal property section of standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. This coverage will reimburse you, minus your deductible, if your bike is stolen or damaged in a fire, hurricane or other disaster listed in your policy. Under most policies, you would also be covered if the bicycle is stolen from your car.

You can insure personal property like a bike in two ways—for its actual cash value or its replacement cost. If you have an actual cash value policy, you would be reimbursed based on the depreciated value of the bike. With replacement cost you would be paid the cost of replacing your current bike less the deductible.

Homeowners and renters insurance policies also provide liability protection for harm you may cause to someone else or their property. If you injure someone in a bicycle accident and he or she sues you, you will be covered up to the limits of your policy. It does not matter if you own or rent the bike; if you have a home or renters insurance policy, you will have liability protection. Most people have $100,000 to $300,000 worth of liability protection as part of their standard policy. But higher amounts of coverage are available. Your homeowners or renters insurance policy also includes no-fault medical coverage in the event you injure someone. This way, they can simply submit a medical claim to your homeowners insurance company without suing you. This coverage usually ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.

When purchasing a new bicycle, keep the receipt and call your insurance professional immediately. And

keep in mind that bike accessories such as a helmet, pump, lights, saddle bag and clothing can add up and are included in your insurance coverage.

If you own a particularly expensive bicycle, you may want to consider getting an endorsement to your homeowners or renters insurance policy. A number of insurance companies have endorsements for sports equipment; some specifically for bikes. The endorsement may have broader coverage and there will likely be no deductible. Your insurance professional can review your coverage options with you.

One of the best ways to make you are properly insured is to have an up-to-date home inventory of all your personal possessions, including your bike and accessories. A home inventory can help you purchase the correct amount of insurance and make the claims filing process easier if there is a loss. The I.I.I. provides free, online home inventory software atKnowYourStuff.org, as well as a home inventory app.

Basic Bike Safety
The I.I.I. recommends the following safety measures for cyclists:
1. Protect your head: Never ride a bike without a properly fitted helmet.
2. Make sure your bike is safe to ride: Your bike should fit you properly. A good bike shop can adjust your bicycle so that it fits your body comfortably, and check all parts of the bike to make sure they are secure and working well.
3. Follow the rules of the road: Bicycles are considered vehicles on the road; therefore riders must follow the same traffic laws as drivers of motor vehicles. Always ride with the flow of traffic, on the right side of the road, and as far to the right of the road as is practicable and safe.
4. Be predictable: When you ride, consider yourself the driver of a vehicle and always keep safety in mind. Ride in the bike lane, if available. Take extra care when riding on a roadway. Courtesy and predictability are key to safe cycling.
5. Be visible: Take responsibility for making yourself visible to motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists. Wear bright colors and have lights mounted on your bike if you plan to ride after dark.
6. Stay focused and alert: Do not wear headphones as they hinder your ability to hear traffic. Be aware of your surroundings and ride defensively. And, don’t try to talk or text while cycling.
7. Take safety classes: Bike clubs, bike shops and community groups offer a range of classes on everything from preventing helmet hair when you get to the office to cycling tips for children. These organizations are familiar with the cycling conditions in your area.


For more information on Rules of the Road for Biking Safety  and Tips for a Better Ride, visit
League of American Bicyclists

Rules of the Road - http://www.bikeleague.org/content/rules-road-0

Ride better tips - http://www.bikeleague.org/content/ride-better-tips

Water Backup Coverage

Do you know what is covered and what is not covered by your homeowner policy?

If a toilet overflows or a shower drain gets clogged and overflows, your homeowner policy provides coverage.  However, all homeowner policies exclude any damage caused by water that escapes, overflows or discharges from a sump pump, sump well or any other system designed to remove water which is drained from the foundation area.

The good news is that there is an endorsement that can be added to your homeowner policy which removes the exclusion and provides coverage for such an unexpected incident.  Pricing and coverage amounts available will vary, depending on the carrier.

The other thing to remember is that flooding is not covered by this endorsement, but can be purchased through the government's national flood insurance program.

Note:  Some of the above information was obtained from a News & Community Bulletin from Safeco Insurance.

10 To Do's To Keep Your Home Safe Before You Leave For Vacation!

Summer is almost here and that means one thing: Vacation.  Whether you follow Route 66 or fly the friendly skies, you will most likely be one of the many people taking a well-deserved break!

To reduce the likelihood of house damage or a break-in, be sure to take the following steps before you go on vacation:


1) Turn off your water.  Many expensive losses occur when water leaks from a hot water heater or broken pipe.

2) Unplug your coffee pot, TV and other small appliances.  This will lower electric costs, as well as prevent possible fires.

3) Cut your grass and water your plants.  High grass or wilted plants may indicate you are away from your home - a possible draw for thieves.

4) Lock your windows and doors, and close curtains on windows where people can see into your house.  A simple, but oftentimes overlooked, step.

5) Install smart timers.  These inexpensive items can be programmed to turn lights on and off throughout the evening.  Burglars are less likely to target houses with lights on.

6) Stop your paper and mail deliveries.  Full mailboxes and a stack of old newspapers on your porch may signal you are out of town.

7) Don't leave an outgoing message on your phone announcing that you are away.  In this time of social media, even a post on Facebook could draw trouble.  Instead, try "I'm not able to take your call" or "I will respond to your message as soon as possible."

8) Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your house.  You may also want to give them your contact information while you are away.

9) Unplug the motor of your garage door opener.  This will help ensure that no one will find a compatible opener and get into your garage.  (Leave a key with a neighbor or relative so you can get in upon return).

10) Ensure required security devices are in place - especially around your pool.

Taking some simple precautions will help ensure you enjoy your vacation - and your return to your home sweet home... exactly as you left it!



Source: MSB

Never Use Cruise Control on a Rainy Day

Cruise control is designed for normal road conditions.  It doesn't know when the pavement is slippery.  Under slick conditions, you need to be in complete control and monitoring road conditions.  You’re more likely to notice hydroplaning if you are not relying on the cruise control.  With some cars, it is possible that the wheels will actually spin faster when the cruise control is on/engaged and the care hits a slippery spot.  When the tires make contact with firm road again, the car can skid or lose control.


On most cars, the cruise control is disengaged by tapping on the brake.  In an emergency situation, this adds a fraction of a second to your response time as well as the risk of the braking action itself causing a loss of control on a slippery road.

Allow plenty of distance between vehicles, avoid cruise control and reduce your speed to allow for slippery roads, especially during the spring and fall when there is debris from the trees also on the roadway making for more slippery pavement.

Check back for more safety information.  We’ll keep you up to date on Illinois Auto Insurance,  home insurance in Illinois and all your other coverage too.

The Benefits of Pet Insurance

  

Pet Insurance is a growing trend.  People love their animals as if they were their own children and for many folks, they are just like children.  Therefore, when they become ill, it is devastating.

As medical costs increase around the country for humans, the same is true for animals.  Consequently a few companies have instituted pet insurance products to help offset the rising costs of medical care for your dogs and cats.

The costs of good veterinary care are high, especially as more treatments become available for animals. Most pet insurance carries a deductible, you pay the initial charges up front, file a claim with the company and the carrier reimburses you for the allowable limit for treatment.

Imagine coming home from work to find that your dog had consumed the entire bag of chocolate that your son left sitting on the counter.  Your pet will need immediate emergency attention and probably monitoring overnight to be sure he is out of the woods.  Or you allow your cat outside to explore the countryside and she is attacked by a feral cat.  Events like this and others such as a diagnosis of a tumor, kidney disease, heart disease, all treatable from emergency care to long term treatment; but they come attached with a price tag.

If you are as in love with your pets as I am, please consider looking into a pet health insurance policy to be assured your pet is with you for a long time with proper medical treatment.

The ASPCA Pet Health Insurance program is a fantastic policy which gives you the option of 4 levels of coverage at very affordable rates.  It offers a $100 deductible and the ability to use your own vet and not be tied down to using someone you don’t know and trust and reimburses up to 90%.

Visit their website today and find out just how affordable this valuable coverage is.  Protect your pets as you would yourself.

http://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/enroll/?priority=BR10MARS87







To learn more about pets visit www.barkpurrandinsure.com

Summer Safe Driving

According to a recent survey provided to us by Travelers Insurance, 67% of Americans taking a summer vacation plan to drive.  Make sure it is a safe trip by doing the following:

1.  Do not overload your vehicle - keep the load evenly distributed and do not block rear and side view mirror vision.

2.  Be prepared - Pack snacks and entertaining items for the little ones in the backseat to help avoid distractions.

3.  Take a break to avoid fatigue - this helps maintain focus - make sure to pull off in a safe spot.

4.  Know the route - be familiar with the route and do not solely rely on GPS so as to avoid dangerous last minute turns and lane changes.

5.  Use cruise control carefully - it can be easier for the driver to lose focus on the road and become more distracted.  But also remember never to use cruise control when roads are wet due to the slowing of response time when cruise control is engaged

6.  DO NOT TEXT WHILE DRIVING - even using a hands-free device can be enough of a distraction to cause a driver to miss key visual and audio cues needed to avoid a crash.



Enjoy your summer vacation, but please be safe and cautious.

Frank Zimmerman, CIC

My brother is getting married this upcoming June to one of the most wonderful women I have had the honor of meeting.  I have volunteered to throw a bridal shower for them and I wanted to share a couple of the ideas that I have done to make it special for them.
The first game I decided to do for them was a word search.

Going to the Chapel and We’re Gonna Get Married!

The wedding bells are ringing
And the guests are seated. Help
Us find the wedding party so
We can cue the music!

L    B    M   A   R  Y   N  A   T   T    I   R   B

K   D    F    T    I    F    F  A   N  Y   W  R  J

G    Z    D   Q   C   Y   K  C   I    R   T   A  P

C   W   H    J     X   E    E  T   J    C   S   U  T

D   N    C   O    E    L   A   I   P   N   X  C   P

V   R    W   H    Z    L   N  V   Z   Q  U  B   T

W  I     E    N    H    E   A  Y   M  A  R   Y   L

V   E    R    M   P    I   D   H   S   G   O  P   S

O   B    D   T    E   N   Z   T    R   V   D  A  R

T   Q    N   D   S   A   A   O   B   U  R   L   I

W  M   A   Z   O   D   D   M  J   A  V   Q   E

J    S    A   B    J    Y   W   I    J   D  O   Q  O

E   N    P   G   N   W   D   T   P   Z  G   F    J

Andrew      Brittany
Joe             Danielle
Eirn            Dana
John           Mary
Joseph       Sara
Patrick       Tiffany
Timothy      Mary



By Mary Marsh



Everyone at Mars Insurance Agency sends best wishes to the happy couple!

Getting Ready for the Spring Storm Season

We’ve all heard the expression, “take care of your body and your body will take care of you.” Homeowners should apply this wisdom to their home and the premises around it. While it is easy to see physical damage that can be caused by large storms, Mother Nature also is slowly and consistently breaking down a home’s defenses against future weather conditions. The specific weather conditions a home is exposed to, coupled with a maintenance plan similar to that below, play a large part in the strength and longevity of a home and the homeowner’s resulting bottom line.

Roof & Its Drainage Systems
Keep all drains, scuppers, gutters and downspout inlets free of debris that may restrict proper flow. It is also important to keep the roof clear of debris, leaves and vegetation, all of which may retain water. Trim trees near the home and branches that hang over the roof.

Home Joints & Connections
Intersections of the roof to walls, rooftop air conditioner mounts and curbs, window and door frames, and pipes through walls all require some type of transition material that is typically more prone to wear out over time. Rubber gaskets, seals and caulks should be inspected for brittleness, cracks, chips and gaps, and replaced as needed.

Walls
Inspect for and seal all minor wall cracks. Inspect Exterior Insulating Finishing Systems (EIFS) for cracks, chips, holes and other problems, and repair them as needed.

Windows & Doors
Ensure that all doors and windows have proper seals. Water stains below a window sill on the inside of the home are a sign of leaks. Inspect the rubber gasket or glazing putty surrounding the windows for cracks and reseal when necessary, even if stains aren’t obvious. Examine magnetic contacts that may be part of the home’s security systems to monitor when the window is opened or closed, and make sure they are well sealed.

Inspect the wooden threshold, where the door meets the floor. If there are signs of decay, replace the threshold and place new seals around the door.

Home Penetrations
Check and seal all roof and wall penetrations, including all water lines and electrical conduit. A single tube of caulk can likely seal all gaps between utility service lines that enter the walls.

Surroundings
Check downspout outlets to ensure that they are not blocked by debris or by the ground itself. It is best to have the surrounding terrain slope away from your home to prevent storm water runoff from accumulating around perimeter walls. Keep all exterior storm water drains free of debris. Drainage canals and culverts that are designed to shed water from the property should be checked and maintained for proper water flow.

Information courtesy of our friends at Grange Insurance.