OH DEER! BEWARE!!!

The annual cost of deer-vehicle collisions in the United States is almost $4 billion. A 2010 study by State Farm Insurance and Fortune magazine predicted there would be 1.1 million such crashes before 2010 ended.

Though the mating season from October to December brings the most crashed, Bambi and his pals are crossing the roads throughout the year.

Pennsylvania had the highest number of crashes last year at 102,165, followed by Michigan with 101,174. Among the 35 states where at least 7,000 deer-vehicle collisions occur per year, New Jersey and Nebraska posted the largest increase, 54 percent. In all the states, crashes increased by more than a third from the previous year.

Some drivers avoid roads through forests and areas of heavy brush where deer can appear suddenly. Others drive at a reduced speed to give them more time to stop and the deer more time to cross.

 

At night, using high-beam headlights allows the driver more time to spot a deer.

Be aware of deer crossing signs and believe them. Deer generally use the same routes each day to find water, food and their resting places. They are most active from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Deer travel in groups so when you see one deer, there could be several others coming behind it.

Brake, don’t swerve. Swerving to avoid a deer can cause a more serious crash, such as into an oncoming car in another lane, or swerving off the roadway and into a tree or a utility pole. The goal is to maintain control of the vehicle

Information provided by our friends at Standard Mutual

For more information visit http://www.marsinsurance.com/

10 Ways to Prevent Zoonotic Diseases

In light of our pet blog being down for repairs I would like to post this blog and remind everyone that Mars Insurance does right pet insurance.

10 Ways to Prevent Zoonotic Disease Threats to Your Family and Your Pet
Zoonotic diseases are illnesses which can be transmitted from pets to people or infect both animals and humans. Here are some ways to protect your loved ones from Zoonotic diseases:
1. Wash your hands often when touching, playing with or caring for pets.
2. Never handle the stool of any animal without wearing disposable gloves or using a plastic barrier.
3. Avoid kissing your pet or letting your pet lick your face.
4. Do daily “tick checks” on yourself, your kids and your pet. If you find a tick, use tweezers to slowly pull it out. After removing the tick, immerse it in rubbing alcohol. Wash the tick bite would and your hands with soap and water.
5. If you are pregnant, ask someone else in the family to clean the cat’s litter box. I you must do it yourself, wear gloves and immediately wash your hands after changing the litter.
6. Wash your hands after gardening or working in soil where pets may have relieved themselves.
7. If you are scratched or bitten, wash the area with soap and water right away and administer first aid. I you are concerned, contact your healthcare professional.
8. Make sure your pet is protected against disease threats in your area.
9. Baring your pet to a veterinarian for a wellness exam at least twice a year, so problems can be detected or prevented.
10. Talk to your veterinarian and visit www.NPWM.com for more information about preventing Zoonotic diseases.

Information courtesy of the American Veterinarian Medical Association

For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance or visit our website at www.marsinsurance.com