Insuring Your Christmas Gifts

Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts, and sometimes, we receive gifts with significant financial or sentimental value.  These are the items that we’ll not only enjoy for years to come, but perhaps pass on to the next generation as meaningful heirlooms.

These are the items that should be properly insured.

Different types of insurance will cover different types of possessions.  Of course, you should have the appropriate policies for big-ticket items like vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles, and other “toys”.  But what about the rest?

Most homeowners’ policies will actually cover items such as:

•  Jewelry
• Electronics (including computers and cameras)
• Antiques
• Artwork
• Collectibles (such as porcelain dolls, stamp and coin collections, and political memorabilia)
• Firearms
• Rare books
• Sports equipment

Although your homeowners’ policy will recoup some of your losses if the item is lost, stolen, or damaged, not all of them will pay the item’s full value. Another option is to purchase a policy specifically for that item (such as jewelry) that will provide full protection.

First, you should decide what kind of coverage you will need. For example, if you want to buy a policy for an engagement ring, you can purchase an individual rider.  If you have a large collection of certain items (like wine, artwork, or memorabilia) you can purchase a policy for blanket protection (be advised that most blanket protection policies will only cover items with a maximum value of $2,500).  If you’d like to insure something worth more than $50,000, then you would need to have it appraised.

There are a few options for protecting your valuables. Of course, you should speak with your agent and choose the right kind of coverage for your most precious items. Everyone wants to enjoy gifts for as long as possible, and purchasing a personal valuables policy can help you do that.

Have you ever bought insurance for your valuables? What type of policy, and what was your experience? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Fun Facts About Christmas

Christmas is only a few days away! In honor of this festive time of year, below are some fun holiday facts that you can use to impress your family and friends at the dinner table.

--Oregon, North Carolina, Michigan, and Pennsylvania are the top producers of Christmas trees in the U.S.

   

--The tradition of decorating Christmas trees originated in 16^th century Germany.

--Political cartoonist and illustrator Thomas Nast is credited with creating the image of Santa Claus familiar to most of us. His illustration showing a jolly old man with a bushy white beard and twinkling blue eyes first appeared in the Christmas issue of Harper’s Weekly in 1862.  (Coca-Cola added the red suit in the 1930s for a marketing campaign and the image has stuck ever since).

--The classic Christmas film It’s a Wonderful Life originally bombed at the box office. It wasn’t until 1974, when NBC started airing it every holiday season, that it caught on with audiences. NBC continues to show it every year.

--Can’t get enough of Christmas? As their names suggest, these towns take the holiday seriously. Why not visit Santa Claus, Indiana; Christmas, Florida; Rudolph, Wisconsin; North Pole, Alaska; Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; or Noel, Missouri?

-- Mister Potato Head was the first toy advertised on TV in 1952. Children had to use a real potato until the molded plastic toy body hit the market in 1964.

--Christmas gifts weren’t always wrapped in paper. For years the tradition was to hang candy and small gifts on the family Christmas tree.

--Rudolph, Santa’s reindeer, was almost named Reginald.  The character was created by a copywriter in 1939 as part of a marketing campaign for Montgomery Ward’s holiday coloring books.

-- In 1936, Alabama was the first U.S. state to declare Christmas a legal holiday.

--The average person consumes approximately 7,000 calories on Christmas Day (including Christmas dinner and any second helpings, appetizers, and alcohol).

Do you have any random Christmas facts that you'd like to share? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!

Lessen Your Travel Stress This Holiday Season

Whether air or land, November and December are two of the busiest travel months of the year, and if you’re one of the millions of people who hit the road or fly to visit family for the holidays, you know how stressful it can be.  Of course, anytime you travel you may run into problems that are out of your control (flights delayed due to weather, traffic backups on highways due to accidents, and more), but with some advanced planning and a lot of patience, you can make your journey a little easier.

Below are a few tips to lessen your holiday travel stress.

Watch flight prices. If you fly often, checking flight prices is probably already second nature. If you only fly occasionally, start checking prices as soon as you confirm your plans (flying around the holidays can be very expensive). Price is important when booking a flight, but other things are important, too—whether it’s a day or night flight, renting a car versus having someone pick you up at the airport, and the airline’s checked bag policy. Some airlines like Southwest offer passengers two free bags (most require that you check larger bags and charge a fee of $25 per bag).  

Get to the airport early. The general rule is to get to the airport two hours before your flight leaves. This allows you plenty of time to go through security, find your gate, and generally get settled in before takeoff.  Sometimes flights do leave earlier than scheduled, so if you’re at the airport well in advance, you’re ready to go.

Be aware of your surroundings.  You should take the same safety precautions in an airport that you would in any other public place.  Never leave your purse or carry-

on unattended; never give your personal information to anyone (the only ones who should ask for any type of personal information are the TSA agents at the security checkpoint and everything they need is on your ID), and be aware of those around you.

Pack accordingly.  Airlines have gotten stricter with their luggage regulations. There is a 50 pound weight limit on checked bags for domestic flights, so try to weigh your bag before you leave (otherwise you may have to repack!) And if you’re planning to pack Christmas gifts, consider ordering them online and having them shipped to your destination, or if there’s time, shop for last-minute items when you get to your destination.

Have your documents ready.  If you’re traveling within the U.S., you’ll need to have a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, military ID, or passport. If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need to show a photo ID and have a valid passport. (Children under the age of 16, even babies, must have their own passports to fly internationally).

  

If you’re traveling internationally, add some extra peace of mind with a travel medical and international health insurance policy, which will cover you should you get sick or injured while out of the country.  Most regular health insurance plans will only cover a portion of your costs (if that), and so purchasing a plan specifically for traveling abroad will give you the coverage you need.

Do you drive a long distance or fly during the holidays? What are some other tips you’d add? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!   

Holiday Safety Tips

The holiday season can be one of the best times of the year—a time when we sit back and take stock of what matters most to us. Of course, the holiday season is also a time when people go all out with decorating, shopping, baking, and throwing parties. Although it’s a meaningful and celebratory time, the holidays are also full of potential safety risks. Below are a few ways to protect yourself and your property, valuables, and sensitive information this time of year.

At home.

      

      Fires. Fire is always a concern, but there’s an even greater risk around the holidays.  Some of the biggest potential hazards? Real trees, fireplaces, live-flame candles, and faulty Christmas decorations. You can minimize some of these risks by making sure your tree is watered frequently, cleaning your fireplace after each use (especially if it’s a wood-burning unit), keeping any candles with a live flame away from your tree, curtains, or any other potentially flammable items, and carefully checking each electrical cord for any frayed wires or other defects before you put the lights on the tree or the item in your window or on your shelf or mantle.

·        

         Choking hazards. If you have little ones (or little ones who'll be visiting), you know that they love to put things in their mouths. Be extra careful about potential choking hazards in your home.  Ornament hooks, broken decorations or lights, and of course small pieces that come with new toys are some of the most common ones. If possible, try to keep the little ones out of the room while you’re decorating.  Vacuum the entire work area once you’re finished so there’s even less risk of them finding something harmful.

·      

          Fall risks. Decorating can be a very physical activity.  Whether it’s putting the star at the top of the tree or stringing several feet of lights and other décor across the exterior of our homes, for many of us, decorating means climbing a ladder. According to OSHA’s website, when climbing a ladder always maintain 3-point contact (two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand). Keep your body near the middle of the step. Come down immediately if the weather takes a turn for the worst.    

On the road.

  

You should always practice defensive driving any time of year, but during the holidays, it’s even more important.

•         Minimize or eliminate any distractions within your vehicle (particularly cell phones) so you can keep your full attention on the road.
•          Be especially careful when driving around mall parking lots. Not only are there more people walking to their cars, there are more people backing their cars out of parking spots!  This means more opportunities for potential collisions.
•          If you’re out at a holiday party, limit your alcohol intake or find a designated driver to take you home.

While shopping.

•      Whether you’re ordering gifts online or shopping in a store, protect your PIN and other financial information. Never give your PIN to anyone.
•      Never leave your bags unattended if you’re in a store.
•       Be aware of your surroundings. Walk in well-lit areas if you're shopping at night. Park as close to the building as possible. If you're alone, pay attention to those around you. If you see anyone suspicious or feel unsafe, contact the authorities.
•        Be sure to lock your car! The holiday season is a prime time for just-bought items to be stolen out of vehicles. Your homeowner’s policy may cover some of the costs for what was lost, but it’s best to not put yourself at risk for theft.

What other tips would you add to this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Tips to Minimize Holiday Stress

As the song says, it’s the most wonderful time of the year…but it can also be one of the most stressful. Shopping, baking, wrapping, attending concerts, recitals, parties—it’s a lot of extra activity to fit into just a few weeks.

Everyone wants to have that perfect holiday, but you don’t have to run yourself so ragged that you’re too tired to enjoy it. If you love the holidays but don’t love the stress, below are a few tips for keeping it under control this season:

Get organized. Sometimes stress can come from lack of planning. This year, start making lists for yourself and your family—write down everyone you buy for (including your children’s teachers or close friends so you’re prepared for any surprise gift exchanges, and service professionals whose services you use regularly, like your hair stylist or baby-sitter), the cooking and baking you need to do, the parties and events you’d like to attend, and any other commitments you usually have this time of year. Plan your usual activities but leave some flexibility for the unexpected event or activity that’s bound to come up.

Start early.  It’s easier said than done, but the earlier you start your holiday prep, the less scrambling you’ll have to do at the last minute. Many of us wait until Black Friday or Cyber Monday to take advantage of good deals for gifts; others shop all year-round; others fall somewhere in between. Spend Black Friday and/or Cyber Monday shopping for deals on big-ticket items; for others, start shopping as early as you can. Or keep a stash of “emergency gifts” on hand so you’re prepared for unexpected gift-giving.  But start early on other things besides shopping. Make some of your cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it. Set aside a day just for decorating or taking stock of your holiday décor, gift wrap and supplies, and gifts you may have purchased throughout the year and set aside.  Take care of those little tasks early, which will free up your time closer to the actual holiday.

Buy the same gift for multiple people. Check multiple people off your list at the same time by buying or making the same gift, but in a slightly different design or color, for friends or family who are close in age.  This will save you a tremendous amount of time and decision making, and if it’s a trendy or meaningful item (maybe a copy of a favorite family photo in a cute frame), the recipients will be happy to each have one.

Simplify.  There’s no reason why you can’t cut back on some of your holiday activities if you tend to get overwhelmed or stressed every year.  Bake a few less dozen cookies, tone down the decorating, buy fewer gifts, decline a few invitations and take some time to enjoy some unscheduled time at home—that home you’ve been working hard to decorate perfectly!

How do you keep your holiday-related stress to a minimum? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Show Your Gratitude This Thanksgiving

In honor of Thanksgiving, it seemed only fitting that this week’s post should focus on gratitude.

It’s very easy to take things for granted. Most of us get up, go to work, run errands, spend time with friends and family, and live our everyday lives without giving much thought to how lucky we truly are. The holidays can be a difficult time of year, but when we stop and think about it, we probably have more positive things in our lives than we realize. A quick list would include:

•     Health
•       Family
•     Friends
•     Home
•     Pets
•     Having the means of supporting ourselves (and it's even better if we're doing something we actually enjoy)
•      A favorite hobby or pastime

And the list goes on and on!

This Thanksgiving, or any other time of year, take a few minutes to just be thankful for all that you have.  We’ve all watched the news this year and saw the horrible stories of families who have experienced tremendous loss from either an extreme weather event (hurricane, wildfire, earthquake) or a random act of violence.  These stories are reason to pay it forward. The best way to truly show your gratitude is to help someone else. Volunteer for a local organization, donate to the long list of worthy causes who are always grateful for goods or monetary donations, or find other ways to help those who need a hand up. It doesn’t cost you anything and feeling as though you made a difference to someone else makes it so worthwhile.

What are you most thankful for? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Pet Owner? Why to Consider Pet Insurance

Pet owners know how expensive veterinary bills can be, even for routine vaccines and annual checkups.  If your pet gets sick or injured and requires more extensive care, some treatments can easily cost thousands of dollars.  Fortunately, there are pet insurance plans available that can help to ease some of the financial burden of costly procedures.

Pet insurance was a niche market for a long time, but now more traditional carriers are offering this type of coverage.  Like any other policy, pet insurance gives you some extra peace of mind for your pet, especially if it is a mischievous breed prone to destruction (many larger dog breeds are known for chewing or swallowing an unbelievable assortment of items that must be surgically removed!), or known to have certain health problems.

Be advised that many insurance carriers do not cover a pet with a preexisting condition. Many animal care professionals recommend purchasing insurance as early as possible (ideally when your pet is a puppy or kitten) so any conditions they develop later in life are covered.  If your pet grows into a healthy adult, you can always choose to drop the coverage. If your pet’s background is questionable (for instance, if it was left at a shelter and you later adopted it), insurance is a good idea, just in case they develop problems later.

Plans vary from one carrier to another. Some policies cover accidents only; others cover illnesses only; some offer complete (accident, illness, and wellness).  Other options include preventive care, chronic conditions (such as allergies), and even alternative therapies. It depends on your pet’s needs, the cost, and the amount of reimbursement you will receive. If you’re considering buying a plan for your pet, ask for referrals from friends, family, colleagues, and of course your veterinarian. It’s important to do your research so you make the best decision for your 4-legged friend.

ETA Benefits Group now offers pet insurance through Petplan.  Contact us if you would like to learn more about this valuable coverage. 

Have you ever bought a pet insurance policy? What was your experience? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Supplemental Heating Sources for Your Home

Whether you use coal, oil, or natural gas to heat your home, the price of fuel is a major household expense for everyone.  You may use a supplemental heating source to cut costs and add extra warmth.  Some of the most common ones are:

•            Fireplaces (wood-burning or gas)
•           Pellet stoves
•       Coal stoves
•       Wood stoves
•        Kerosene heaters

Let’s look at some of the features, pros, and cons of each unit.

Fireplaces run on either wood or gas. Wood-burning fireplaces are messy and more high-maintenance than gas-powered units. They must be cleaned after each use, and a chimney sweep must inspect your chimney annually to keep too much creosote (a natural by-product of burning wood) from building up and potentially starting a fire. Gas-powered fireplaces are low maintenance; you don’t even need a chimney. Whichever model you choose, the heat these units generate will keep you cozy warm in the coldest winter weather.

Pellet stoves are available as freestanding or insert-style units and are either top- or bottom-fed. The freestanding model runs on a small amount of electricity. They can be placed anywhere in a room because, as their name implies, they don’t need to be mounted on or supported by a wall. An insert-style pellet stove would replace a standard fireplace, and since it does burn wood (in the form of small pellets), some ash will accumulate as it does in a fireplace. It should be cleaned and inspected by a chimney sweep every year.  One big difference between a fireplace and a pellet stove is that a fireplace will send air up the chimney; a pellet stove is more contained and better at keeping heat inside the room.

If you’re considering a wood or coal stove, as already mentioned, wood creates ash, a lightweight substance that blows around easily and can create a huge mess in your home. Coal, particularly anthracite, burns cleaner, slower, and longer, so you would actually use less coal to heat a space than you’d use wood for a wood stove.

Kerosene heaters are safer than they were even a decade ago, but they are still a common cause of many household fires every winter. They do a great job of heating a room, but it’s critical that you know how to use the unit before you get it up and running. Some common mistakes homeowners make with kerosene heaters are not allowing enough ventilation, spilling the fuel, or using the wrong fuel (you don’t want to substitute gasoline for kerosene!)

Supplemental heating sources can be an effective way to cut fuel costs, but they can also impact your homeowners’ insurance policy by way of higher premiums.  Be sure to review your coverage with your agent so you understand the implications of having one of these units in your home.

Do you use a supplemental heating source in the winter? What do you use? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Advantages of Agency Over Online Insurance

Every day, we are bombarded with commercials and ads for online insurance companies that offer various discounts, benefits, and other draws to gain your business.  Buying insurance from an online company might be easier, but in the long run, it might not be best.

One of the biggest advantages to working with an agency is the personalized service you receive.  Many agents already know their clients personally; if they don’t, they will take the time to get to know you and your needs.  Then they can identify the best coverage for those needs. (Independent agencies offer even more choices, as they are not aligned with one carrier and can shop around with several carriers to find the best policy for you).

If you file a claim, the agent will take care of the paperwork and track its progress from beginning to end. Your agent will always look out for your best interests and stay in touch with the carrier so they can reach a positive outcome.  They will also keep in regular contact with you for things like annual renewals and pending cancellation notices.

Many agencies also sell various products, so you can purchase more than one policy from your agent and have all of your coverage in one place. Several carriers offer discounts for bundling policies (home and auto is one of the most common), so you could save money if you have multiple policies with the same agent.

Customers like the convenience of buying insurance online because you can simply fill out a form and the company does the rest.  There is also some cost savings because online companies don’t pay a commission to an agent. But if you file a claim, it’s up to you to stay in contact with the company until it’s resolved.  Many online companies just sell one type of insurance, so you’ll have to find the policies you need on your own, and likely spend more on premiums since you’ll be paying different carriers.

Before you buy your insurance online, see what a local agent can do for you. ETA Benefits Group is a local independent agent that sells a wide range of insurance and works with several different carriers to offer clients the best coverage at a price that fits their budget.

Have you ever bought insurance from an online company? What was your experience? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Prevent Scary Accidents This Halloween

Halloween is the time of year for some spooky fun. But as always, along with fun comes the need for safety to prevent scary accidents on your property.

If you plan to welcome trick or treaters, clear away any yard debris or clutter from your porch or walkway. Little ones love Halloween, but when their enthusiasm and a long or cumbersome costume meets debris, they could trip, fall, and get seriously injured.  Likewise, you wouldn’t want an adult taking their kids trick or treating to fall on your front steps or sidewalk, either. For this same reason, be sure your porch or walkway is well lit. And if your kids are trick or treating, be sure to check their candy when they get home. Any pieces that look suspicious (such as, the wrapper has been opened or it looks like it’s been tampered with in some way), should be thrown away immediately.

Carving pumpkins into scary or funny jack o’lanterns is a favorite holiday activity, but it can also be dangerous. If you’re not handling the knife correctly, or little hands are trying to carve their pumpkin by themselves, it could lead to a serious injury. Paint or decorate the pumpkins instead of carving them, especially if you’re working with kids. Jack o’lanterns are traditionally lit with candles, but open flames are another potential safety hazard. If the pumpkin is sitting on your front porch or in a high-traffic area, it could easily be knocked over.  Use a battery-powered LED candle rather than a live flame instead. Better yet, stick with an artificial jack o’lantern.  Sure, the genuine article always looks better, but the artificial version is much safer!

And of course, we can’t forget the Halloween party, whether it’s a traditional costumed gathering or not. If you’ll be serving alcohol, make sure your guests are able to drive or have named a designated driver.  Encourage them to stay over if they’re not able to drive.  

If you’re expecting a lot of visitors at your house this Halloween, whether for a party or the neighborhood trick or treat night, make sure you’re protected. Consider umbrella coverage for your homeowners’ policy, which can give you additional coverage should a visitor get injured on your property.  ETA Benefits Group works with several carriers that offer this valuable protection.  Please contact us to learn more.

How do you celebrate Halloween? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Quick Tips to Get Your Car Ready for Fall

Now that you’ve gotten your home ready for fall by using these tips,

it’s time to do the same with your car. Just like your home, fall is a great time to do some preventative maintenance on your vehicle before it’s tested by harsh winter weather. Depending on where you live, you may get snow and ice as early as October, so it’s important to have your vehicle ready.

Fill fluids. You’ll need wiper fluid to wash the nasty grime of road salt, slush, and moisture residue off your windshield. Make sure you use a fluid that is meant for cold weather conditions, otherwise it may freeze on your windshield and won’t be very helpful. As always, do routine oil, transmission, and HVAC fluid checks throughout the winter to ensure your car’s engine and electrical system runs smoothly.

Check tire tread. If you get a lot of snow and ice where you live, it’s critical that you have good tires on your vehicle. Make sure the tread is in good shape and not worn down so you have good traction.

Check and replace brake pads as needed. Good brakes are another necessity in bad weather. You need to be able to go downhill slowly and navigate safely if you skid on an icy patch.  You want to make sure your brake pads have enough “grab” so they can help you stop suddenly if you need to.

Check headlights. Visibility is essential when driving in snow and icy conditions, and if one of your headlights is out, it can be very risky to simply rely on one to see where you’re going.  Replace any burned out head- or taillight bulbs to ensure your visibility is good.

Assemble an emergency kit. Bad weather can strike at any time, so make sure you’re prepared. Pack an emergency kit to keep in your trunk that contains cat litter (to help with traction if you’re stuck), a flashlight with extra batteries, a blanket, and even some non-perishable food just in case.

Auto maintenance is essential all year round so your vehicle is in good working condition. Accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but some preventative maintenance can go a long way towards keeping you and your passengers safe. ETA Benefits Group works with several auto insurance carriers and can shop around to find the best coverage for your needs. Contact us for a free, no obligation quote.

What else can you do to prepare your car for winter weather? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

"In Case of Fire": Safety Devices for Your Home

The threat of a house fire can be very scary.  But there are ways that you can be alerted in case of a fire and get yourself and your family out of the house safely.  Although each one of these protective measures are effective by itself, ideally you should have all of them in place.

Smoke detectors. Most homes have smoke detectors, and if yours doesn’t, your local fire department may be able to get one for you. Some models also come equipped with a CO detector which can give you added security.  Professionals advise checking the batteries in your smoke detector twice a year (switching the clocks is standard practice for many of us), but if it slips your mind, the device will start chirping like a bird or make another irritating noise signaling that it’s time for new batteries!

Fire extinguishers. You should have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen should a grease fire break out or you have electrical problem with one of your appliances, and it’s also a good idea to keep one in the basement in case something goes haywire with your washer or dryer. There are several different makes and models on the market; this site explains the different types available and how to use them.  

CO detectors. According to the National Fire Protection Association’s website, carbon monoxide is an “odorless, colorless gas created when fuels burn incompletely.  In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide.” Carbon monoxide poisoning has been called a silent killer, and these fumes can be lurking in your home without you even realizing it. Fire safety professionals recommend installing detectors right outside of sleeping areas and testing them once a month.

   

Fire escape plan. It is important that your family establish an escape plan, and hopefully you never need to use it! Everyone in the family should know two ways out of every room, and you should agree on a meeting place outside should anyone get separated. Fire safety professionals suggest reviewing the plan every six months so everyone in the family gets a refresher and remembers what they are supposed to do and where they are supposed to meet.

Are all of the above components in your home fire safety plan?  Is there anything else you would add? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Fun Fall Activities for the Whole Family

For many of us, fall is a favorite time of year. There’s that slight nip in the air, football on the TV every weekend, and of course, pumpkin spice everything! Fall is the time to spend some real quality time outdoors before the harsh winter temperatures arrive and keep many of us inside.

From building a fire and toasting S’mores to tailgating before the big game, there’s no shortage of fun things for the whole family to enjoy this time of year. Below are just a few ideas:

Go on a hayride. Take a tour through a farm or the woods in a wagon and sit on an old-fashioned hay bale.  Bonus—there’s usually apple cider or hot chocolate waiting for you at the end.

Wander through a corn maze. Test out your navigational and problem-solving skills by wandering through a corn field and trying to find your way out.  

Pick apples or pumpkins (or both!) Nothing says fall like walking through a pumpkin patch and choosing just the right one to decorate your house or carve into a jack o’ lantern.  Or visiting an orchard and picking apples right off the trees. Both activities should preferably be done on a day that’s a bit chilly just to add some authenticity to the whole experience.

Baking. It’s time to trade the cool treats like ice cream for the warm, comforting ones like cakes and cobblers. Now that you’ve stocked up on plenty of ingredients at the pumpkin patch or orchard, it’s time to put them to use.  Think pumpkin bread, cookies, and brownies, and of course apple cobbler and apple pie. Baking is also a great way to get kids involved. They can help measure dry ingredients or gather the items you’ll need (and taste the finished product, of course!)

Leaf peeping. Here at ETA Benefits Group, we’re fortunate to live in beautiful northeast Pennsylvania, where people come from miles around to see our colorful foliage every year. Take a drive “up north” to check out the rich and vibrant red, orange, and gold leaves that peak for a few weeks in October, then the colors fade and before long the leaves are falling off the trees. (Jumping into a pile of leaves is another fun activity all on its own!) Some places offer steam train rides through the woods, which is a unique way to admire the changing colors.

Whatever you do, make the most of this beautiful time of year!

What are some of your favorite fall activities? We’d love to hear about them in the comments below!

Quick Tips to Prepare Your Home for Fall

It’s September! School is back in session and autumn is on its way. While many of us enjoy the cooler temperatures and beauty of the leaves changing colors, the arrival of autumn means that the cold, dark winter is not far behind.

Every season brings its own home maintenance projects.  Most of us focus on our home’s exterior, lawn, and garden in the summer. Fall means we’ll be spending more time inside, so it’s a good time to focus on indoor projects.

Below are a few routine household tasks to tackle this fall:

Clean your gutters. Keep the gutters clear of leaves and other debris.
    

 Have your heating system cleaned. Schedule an appointment with a reputable technician to service your oil burner or furnace. This is also a good time to clear out any soot or buildup in your fireplace, or hire a chimney sweep to do a thorough cleaning.

Secure windows and doors. Seal any gaps or cracks around your windows and doors with weather stripping and caulking. Air coming in through those cracks create annoying drafts; air seeping out means higher energy bills.

Inspect your roof.  Check for loose shingles, cracks, leaks, or other issues. A small problem can get big very quickly when snow and ice pile up on it in the winter.

        

Put a fire escape plan in place.  Check the battery in your smoke alarm or CO detector (most experts recommend doing this when you change your clocks, but it’s never too early!), make sure you have working fire extinguishers in your kitchen, and try to rid your home of any potential fire hazards.

How do you prepare your home for fall and the cooler weather? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Tips for an Affordable (and Still Beautiful!) Wedding

Weddings can be extremely expensive. It’s not unusual for a couple or their parents to spend several thousand dollars on their ideal wedding. Although not everyone has thousands of dollars to spend, all couples want a day that will be perfect, memorable, and unique.  There are ways to have the day of your dreams without going into massive debt.

Develop a budget. It’s very important to draw up a budget so you can see your anticipated expenses in black and white.  Budgets change; you may spend more or less on certain things, but try to stick to the numbers you’ve agreed on as much as you can. Discuss your budget with your fiancé regularly and keep track of your spending—fighting over your wedding isn’t the best way to start your life together.

Decide where to splurge. If you’re on a limited budget, choose a few “must have” items and splurge on them. Do you want an amazing dress, the best venue in town, tons of flowers, the most in-demand DJ or entertainment, or an incredible cake? Or are you willing to trim expenses for the ceremony and reception and have an unforgettable honeymoon, or have something very low-key and save your money for a large post-wedding expense, such as a down payment on a house?  Look at your budget and see where you can save money or eliminate something completely. Maybe you’re happy printing your own invitations or you decide you don’t want favors for your guests. Cut back on some areas so you can spend more on others.

Keep your guest list under control.  You want your nearest and dearest friends and family with you on your special day, but you don’t have to invite every acquaintance you’ve ever had. And don’t feel obligated to invite that great aunt you met once when you were five and barely remember. Huge weddings can be overwhelming and impersonal, not to mention expensive! Most reception venues charge a per-plate fee; even more affordable options like a buffet or family-style serving can get pricey if your guest list keeps growing.  

Do it yourself. As mentioned above, you can keep costs low if you do some things yourself.

Invitations, favors, centerpieces, and escort cards are just a few items that are relatively easy to make yourself (and therefore easy to customize to show some of your personality as a couple).  Some brides get very ambitious and design or sew their own dress or make their own wedding cake! If you have the skills and are willing to put in the time, do as much of the wedding prep as you can!

Use talent/skills of friends and family. Do you have a relative who’s a whiz with a needle and thread, a pro at arranging flowers, an expert baker, or has another skill that could help with some aspect of your day? Why not ask them? They’ll likely be touched that you asked, and if they use this skill professionally (for example, they own a bakery or flower shop), they could probably get you what you need at a deep discount or offer their service as a gift.

Ensure that everything goes smoothly on your big day with a wedding and special event insurance policy. ETA Benefits Group works with several carriers that sell this type of affordable coverage. Contact us to get a no obligation quote!  

Did you stick to your budget for your wedding? Was it low-key or over the top? We'd love to hear about it in the comments below!

Life Insurance Options for Children

Life insurance is one of those things that none of us want to think about.  But if the unthinkable happens, your loved ones will have the peace of mind and financial resources they need to pay your final expenses, everyday expenses like mortgage, or set a portion aside for the future (i.e., a child’s education or spouse’s retirement).

But life insurance isn’t just for adults. There are also policies available for children.  True, life insurance is a tough subject to discuss, and it’s even tougher when it applies to a child, but it’s also a wise long-term purchase for your child’s future.

Life insurance is essentially a means to replace lost income when the insured passes away. For this reason, it’s important that the parents have their own life insurance policies—if the unthinkable happens, the family will receive a lump sum payout from that policy and won’t have to rely on the children’s coverage for expenses.  There are two kinds of policies—term and permanent. Most agents will likely recommend a term life policy for a child, which can be cashed out when the term expires and used as an additional source of income.

The other option is a permanent life policy (also known as whole or universal life) which is suitable for parents or grandparents with a generous amount of disposable income.  These policies are more like an investment (such as bonds or stock) that combine a death benefit payout with a savings component.  Cash accumulates in the savings portion and in some instances the recipient can withdraw cash. Permanent life policies can be complicated, so it’s best to work with a financial planner or insurance agent to design the best plan for your needs.

ETA Benefits Group works with several carriers that sell life insurance policies for both children and adults. Contact us to learn more about the different types of coverage available.

Do you have life insurance for your child? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Your Homeowners' Policy Can Cover More Than Just Your Home

Homeowners’ policies are meant to protect damage to our homes and property (such as barns, pools, and garages), of course. But did you know that this coverage can apply to much more than just a dwelling? Be sure to review your policy so you understand what it covers. Below is a partial list of things that may be covered by a standard homeowners’ policy. 

Valuables. Certain possessions have not only a strong sentimental value, but they can be worth quite a bit of money, as well. Think of family heirlooms like jewelry, china, or firearms, or certain stamp or coin collections. Your homeowners’ policy may include coverage for these items, or you may opt to purchase policies specifically for certain valuables.

Boats (under a certain size). Boats can be covered under a homeowners’ policy if it is physically damaged while stored on your property—the coverage may not even include the time you’re in the water. It is recommended that you purchase a separate policy specifically for boats as your homeowners’ policy only provides minimal coverage for certain incidents.

Service lines. This is a new type of coverage that many providers are adding to their policies.  Service lines are needed for our home’s most basic functions—water, sewer, electricity, cable, and heat—and they can be damaged by a wide range of things (animals, nature, or plain old age). Repairing these lines can be costly. Besides paying for the actual repair, a homeowner may have to dig up some or all of a sidewalk, driveway, or lawn, which would then need to be replaced. It’s not unusual for the entire fix to cost several thousand dollars, the expense of which usually falls on the homeowner. More providers are adding service line coverage to their policies, which will help the homeowner offset a portion if not all of the repair expenses. 

Personal belongings stolen from a car.  Most people think that a car insurance policy covers anything and everything related to your vehicle, but that’s not the case. If you have an item like a laptop, or something even more valuable like your purse, stolen from your car, your homeowners’ policy may offset some of what was lost.

Loss-of-use. If you’re having major work done to your home due to a covered loss, you may be displaced for a period of time and need to live in temporary housing. Your policy may cover your room and board at a hotel or other lodgings while the repairs are going on.

Policies can vary greatly so it’s best to speak with your agent about what yours includes.

Were you ever pleasantly surprised by what your homeowners’ policy covered? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below! 

Tips for Installing a Firepit in Your Backyard

Firepits can be a great addition to your backyard as a relaxing gathering space for friends and family in both warm and cool weather. With so many styles and materials available, you can install one in your yard at a relatively low cost. Whether you plan to purchase a ready-made pit or build one, there are a few things to consider before you set it up:

Cost. How much are you willing to spend on this project? Will you gather the materials and dig the pit yourself, or buy a unit? You can spend anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars on a firepit, especially if you add landscaping and outdoor seating to the area.

Size. The size of your pit depends on the size of your yard. Measure the space so you have a realistic idea of how large it can be.

Placement. Location is extremely important, so choose it carefully.  Be sure you apply for a permit in your town or borough so you’re not doing anything illegally. Most communities have requirements for fire pit locations, so you should definitely follow those regulations. Put the pit a safe distance from your home, deck, or low-hanging tree branches, as they are all potential fire hazards.  Be safe when using the pit—a responsible adult should always be present, have sand at the ready to extinguish the fire, and dispose of the spent coals in a metal container.

Type of fuel—wood or gas? How do you plan to fuel the pit—with gas or old-fashioned firewood? Purists usually choose firewood, which gives you the crackle and smoky wood smell of a campfire, but is more work (get ready to chop those logs!) Others may opt for the ease of gas or propane.   

What else to include? What will your guests sit on when the firepit is ready to go? Will they use fold-up camping chairs that they’ll have to arrange around the fire, or do you plan to make an actual sitting area with tables, comfortable seating (maybe a set of Adirondack chairs), and lighting?  With the right pieces, you can easily create a space you and your guests will enjoy spending time in throughout the summer and fall.

What does the fire pit setup in your backyard look like? Let us know in the comments below!

Fun Activities for the Last Few Weeks of Summer

It’s hard to believe that summer is almost over and school will be back in session in a few weeks! If you didn’t cross every item off your summer activity to-do list, you still have some time to do some fun things with family and friends.

Be a tourist in your town or nearest city. Maybe you’re back from your long vacation and want to do something else closer to home, or maybe you just couldn’t get away this summer.  Time for a “staycation”. You can still enjoy a change of scenery, even if it’s just for a day, by visiting some local venues. Be a tourist in your own town. Visit the various attractions, check out the shops, or get something to eat at a restaurant you haven’t tried yet. If you live in a small town, think bigger and explore a larger nearby city. You might discover a new favorite place to eat or learn something about your hometown you didn’t know before.

Go mini golfing. Mini golfing tends to be one of those summer activities that gets put off, but once you make the time to do it, you wish you’d done it earlier in the season! Some mini golf courses have extended hours through the fall months, but there’s something about putt-putting during peak summer season. And don’t forget to grab an ice cream or sundae before you head home!

Go to a fair. Fairs are a great, relatively inexpensive family-friendly activity. Kids love the animals and rides, adults love the entertainment, and everyone loves the food! Whether you’re a purist who sticks to fair staples like funnel cakes, corn dogs, and sno-cones or seek out something more exotic, you won’t be hungry when you leave!

One last backyard cookout. It’s always hard to say goodbye to the long days of summer when you can spend 12-14 hours outside, but take advantage of the time that’s left by inviting friends and family over for one last back-to-school barbecue. Make it potluck if you don’t want to do all the cooking.  Set up some games like badminton or a bean bag toss and enjoy a relaxed night before the rush of sports, activities, and other commitments fill up the calendar.

Take advantage of back-to-school and end-of-season sales. August and September is that unique time of year when you’re planning ahead for next summer (and maybe a once-in-a-lifetime vacation) and looking at bathing suits, but also stocking up on school supplies. Whatever you’re looking for, stores of all kinds are offering sales on end-of-season merchandise, so if you’re looking for a big ticket item, now’s the time to get it.

How do you plan to spend your last few weeks of summer? Let us know in the comments below!

Making the Most of Your RV Vacation

Traveling by RV is a unique and fun way to go on vacation. Whether you’re planning a “staycation” and staying close to home or driving hundreds, even thousands, of miles away (even cross country!), going by RV will be a memorable experience.

If you’re used to traveling by car or plane, going by RV for the first time will be a big change.  But if you plan both your route and anticipated challenges along the way, you can minimize your stress and maximize your traveling experience. Even if you’re just renting the RV for a one-time trip, it will be one you'll never forget!

Below are a few ways to make the most of your RV vacation:

Plan your route but leave room for detours. Set definite starting and ending points with rest stops along the way.  But part of the fun of traveling is seeing new places, so if you come across a lesser-known tourist stop or an interesting-looking town, definitely pull over and check it out.

Talk to people. Another perk of traveling is the people you meet. RV enthusiasts are a particularly friendly group, and if you plan to stay at RV parks during your journey, you’re likely to meet plenty of interesting folks. Get to know them. Share meals or supplies with neighbors, participate in impromptu get-togethers with fellow travelers, and exchange contact information so you can stay in touch.

Pack and budget accordingly. Due to limited space in the RV, pack only your essential personal belongings. You should also develop a budget for your trip. Everyone’s budgets and expenses are different, but common line items include food, RV park or campground fees, fuel, and insurance costs.  

Be prepared for emergencies (especially medical and vehicle). Be sure to have a first aid kit fully stocked and on board for your trip. This post mentions an extensive list of items to include in the kit. Additionally, pack a roadside emergency kit should you have problems with the RV itself. Driving an RV is very different from driving a car, so you’ll need different items for the RV. This post explains what should be in your RV’s kit. 

Be open. Related to the first point, you’ll enjoy your trip more if you accept it for the adventure it is. You may be giving up the comforts of home for a few days/weeks, but that’s what traveling is all about—seeing different places and breaking out of your regular routine. Be open to seeing things and meeting people you’d likely never encounter in your everyday life.

If you’re purchasing an RV, contact us for a free no obligation quote on RV insurance.  We work with a number of carriers, and as independent agents, we can shop the market to find the best coverage at the best price.

What are some of your best RV travel tips? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Lawn Care Safety Tips 101

The care and upkeep of our lawns and gardens is all part of summer. Whether it’s cutting grass, pruning shrubs, or weeding gardens, it’s important to keep our green spaces looking neat so it increases or home’s overall appeal.

But if you’re new to lawn care maintenance, it’s probably not second nature to you just yet. There are a few safety tips you should keep in mind so you don’t hurt yourself, your equipment, or the greenery you’re caring for!

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      Know how to use the equipment. Not all lawn mowers, weed whackers, and hedge trimmers are alike. Be sure you are familiar with your model before you get started. If you’re not sure how something works, make sure your machine is OFF so you can figure it out. If you know someone with the same machine, ask them for a quick tutorial on how to operate it before you try it yourself. (Or just read the instruction manual.) If have a rider mower, never let a child ride on or operate it. Make sure all safety guards are in place while you work.

      Dress appropriately. If you’re using a lawn mower, always wear long pants and heavy, close-toed shoes—no sandals or flip flops. Always wear the recommended safety gear—goggles, gloves, and ear plugs. Wearing a cap to keep the sun out of your eyes and flying clippings out of your hair is a good idea, as well.

     Check your work area for safety hazards. If you’re mowing the lawn, do a quick walk-through and pick up any objects lying in the grass like toys, branches, and rocks—you don’t want the mower blade to hit something, send it flying and potentially hurt someone or their property. Don’t use an electric lawn mower if the grass is wet.  

Be sure any electrical cords you’re using are appropriate for outdoor usage. When you’re finished working, make sure all your equipment is fully turned off, any chemicals (such as liquid weed killer) are closed tightly, and everything is stored in a safe place.

Are there any other safety tips you would add to this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Insurance Needs for Your College Student

In just a few weeks, college campuses will be coming back to life after a long, quiet summer. Freshmen will be participating in orientation, trying to navigate their way around campus, and adjust to life away from home; upperclassmen will be catching up with friends, getting mentally prepared to take their most challenging classes, and start thinking about graduation and securing a job or internship. There’s so much for students to think about; chances are insurance isn’t near the top of that list. This is something parents can think about instead. If your child is going off to college this fall, there are some insurance policies that can benefit them while they’re away from home:

Renters. If your child will be living in an off-campus apartment, encourage them to purchase renters’ insurance.  There are several benefits to this type of coverage:  it will cover personal belongings (including furniture, clothing, and electronics) if they are damaged or stolen; medical payments for anyone who is injured at your child’s apartment, and expenses if your child’s residence is having major repairs and he needs a place to stay for a few days.

Auto. Your child may or may not have a car on campus for various reasons. (Some colleges don’t allow freshmen to have cars, for example). Some carriers offer discounts on car insurance depending on how far your child will be from home (more than 100 miles is the standard distance for the discount with most carriers). It’s a good idea to leave your child on your insurance policy, otherwise their coverage will lapse when they purchase their own policy, resulting in a higher payment.

Identity theft.  With so much business conducted online and personal information a prime target for hackers, identity theft is a real potential risk for college students. Identity theft insurance, along with credit monitoring plans and similar services, is meant to protect your child from the expenses incurred from having their identity stolen. This type of coverage is relatively new, only a few carriers sell it, and it’s gotten mixed reviews—financial and cybersecurity experts say that protecting confidential information, such as Social Security numbers and bank account PINs, is a better strategy than purchasing identity theft insurance. It is best to do your research and weigh the advantages and disadvantages before you buy this type of coverage for your child.

If you’re sending your child off to college and want to make sure they have the right insurance, contact us. We work with over 50 carriers, and as independent agents, we can shop the market to find the best coverage at the best price.

Have you purchased any of the above policies just for your college-age child? What was your experience? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

What's the Best Home Alarm System For You?

Whether your neighborhood has had an unfortunate increase in break-ins or you simply want additional protection for your home and belongings, installing a home alarm system is a smart investment. Besides the peace of mind it provides, it can also give you a discount on your homeowners’ policy. With dozens of options available, how do you decide which is the right system for you?

Cost. If you sign a contract with a company that will install the system, there is generally a cost for installation plus a monthly payment. If you’re buying one to install yourself, the price range can vary widely—anywhere from $30.00 to several hundred dollars.

Features. The cost has a lot to do with the system’s features. Some are basic, controlled through a code on a keypad and installed through your phone line. When someone enters your home and does not de-activate the code, the authorities (fire/police/ambulance) will be notified.  But rapidly-changing technology has also made some very sophisticated models that might include things like motion detectors, heat sensors, panic buttons, pressure mats to detect footsteps, gauges to detect leaky pipes or broken furnaces, and more.

Brand recognition. Most folks choose a DIY system, or to sign a contract, with a name they recognize. Some of the more well-known contracted companies are ADT, ProtectAmerica, SimpliSafe, and Frontpoint.

Professional vs. DIY installation. Some major security companies will sell the equipment directly to customers for a DIY installation. Others require customers to use one of their contractors. If you’re handy you may want to skip working with a security company and buy a system from a department or hardware store. It’s really a personal preference, but many homeowners appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a package through a security company, which includes central monitoring. 

Technology and automation.  Nearly every system is controlled with a security code, whether it’s one that you manually punch-in on a keypad every time you enter or leave your home, or one that you can control through a device. Most systems have one of two “sound” options—either an ear-piercing alarm that will (hopefully) chase away any would-be burglars, or a silent alarm that is triggered by a panic button. The alarm will notify the central monitoring system, who will then contact the authorities. Most home security systems have the loud alarm—the silent alarm works if you are in the house and can push the panic button. (So of course, you’re taking a bigger risk by encountering an intruder!)

How did you choose your home alarm system? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Doggie Paddle: Tips for Taking Your Dog Swimming

Humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy summer’s warmer temps—our dogs also appreciate the sunshine, fresh air, and chance to run around to their hearts’ content. It’s the perfect opportunity to spend some real quality time with our four-legged friends, whether it’s going for long walks, playing at a park, taking them on vacation (to a dog-friendly resort or hotel, of course), and a favorite summer activity—swimming.

Depending on the breed, your dog may or may not be a huge fan of water, but if you are planning to get them in the water sometime this summer, there are a few things to keep in mind so you can keep your pooch safe.

First, can your dog swim? Sure, most can, but it’s not innate for every breed—just like humans, they have to learn.  If your brand-new puppy has never stuck a paw in the water before, you may not want to take them in a rushing river or lake during your camping trip. Start them slowly in a calm body of water for a few minutes at a time so they can build up their stamina and just get used to the new experience.

Second, where will you take the dog swimming? Do you go camping at the same campground or visit the same beach resort every summer? Will you swim in a river, lake, pool, or ocean? Each body of water comes with its own potential risks for dogs.  For instance, dogs that drink or swim in any fresh water that wild animals may have access to run the risk of developing a serious infection. Vets also recommend that dogs be up-to-date on their leptospirosis vaccine, which protects them against Lyme disease.

Two of the biggest risk factors when taking dogs swimming?  Rushing currents and swallowing too much water. Let’s look at each of them in more detail.

Rushing water.

Waves can be fun to splash in, but as currents pick up, they can be dangerous.  Larger breeds like Labs, golden retrievers, and German shepherds obviously have more endurance than a smaller breed, but their stamina will likely give out before their enthusiasm does.  For fresh water rivers and lakes, stay in a calm swimming area; for oceans, pay attention to any signs that warn of riptides and don’t let your pooch swim too far from safety—the trip back to shore can easily exhaust them.  It also recommended that young and senior dogs swim with a flotation device.

Swallowing too much water.

Just like kids, dogs sometimes need reminders about what’s good or not good for them. Dogs are obviously used to drinking water at home, but taking in too much while swimming isn’t good. Watch your dog for any signs of distress—vomiting is a clear signal that they’ve taken in too much. If they are vomiting or show any other signs of illness, get them to a vet as soon as you can.

Dogs are our great friends all year long, but summer is a great time for some outdoor fun with our best buds. Like humans, a little moderation and common sense can help you both enjoy your time together.

Have you taken your dog swimming? What safety tips would you recommend? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Choosing the Right Bike Helmet for Your Child

Summer vacation means that it’s time for kids to get outside and get some exercise. Whether it’s taking a walk, going swimming, or riding their bikes, there’s no shortage of fun outdoor activities that they can do before they head back to school.

In Pennsylvania, approximately 900 people are killed in bike accidents each year; approximately 200 are under 12 years of age. Approximately 130,000 riders suffer from head injuries due to bike accidents. With stats like these, it’s important to keep your child safe. If your child is ready to put some serious mileage on their bike, be sure they have the proper equipment, namely a helmet.  Most states have laws about safety gear—in Pennsylvania, children age 12 and under are required to wear helmets when bike riding. But with so many models and styles on the market, how do you choose the best one? Below are a few tips to help you with your decision:

•         Get the right fit. Fit is the single biggest deciding factor when it comes to choosing a helmet. The helmet should fit your child’s head right now; unlike clothing or shoes, don’t get a larger size with the thought that they’ll “grow into it” in a few months. It should be snug and secure for them to use right away. The helmet should sit comfortably in the center of their head—not too far back or too far forward. The child should still be able to see. The straps should be fastened securely
•           The brighter, the better. Visibility goes a long way towards safe bike riding, especially if your child will be riding their bikes anywhere other than your driveway or immediate neighborhood.  Encourage your child to select a helmet in a bright color so that they can be seen by drivers easily.
•          Make sure it meets safety standards. In the United States, must meet the safety standards established by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; those that do will be labeled with a sticker.

      You must purchase a new helmet if your child takes a spill or the helmet hits the ground. Wearing a helmet can reduce your child’s risk of a skull fracture by 85%, but they are still at risk for a concussion. Make sure your child sees a doctor if they fall off their bike and hit their head.

      Any other tips you’d offer for choosing the right helmet? We’d love to know in the comments below!