Fireworks and celebrating the Fourth of July Holiday Safely

Fireworks and celebrating the Fourth of July Holiday Safely

This year fireworks season started early. Non-professionals have been using fireworks for a long list of reasons.  Local authorities will be on heightened alert due to this so please proceed cautiously if you decide to use fireworks this holiday and keep our pets and people with special needs in mind.

Using fireworks on the Fourth of July is a tradition. Many people forget though, that fireworks can be very dangerous if used or handled incorrectly. Every year, hundreds of people including small children are injured due to unsafe firework use. This year celebrating our Independence can be safe if a few common-sense rules are followed:

  • Have a designated shooter to organize and shoot all the fireworks.
  • A responsible ADULT should be supervising all firework activities as well as keeping an eye on children.
  • Guardians should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
  • Drinking while shooting fireworks is NOT a good mix. Save the alcohol for after.
  • Use fireworks outdoors where there is a clear area. Keep away from trees, cars and houses.
  • Do not carry fireworks in your pockets; this could cause a serious injury.
  • Wear safety gear while lighting and shooting fireworks. Safety glasses, safety gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants will help prevent burns.
  • Always have water available and ready when you are using fireworks in case of a fire.
  • Never relight a “dud” or already used fireworks. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Soak used fireworks with water before placing them in your outdoor trash can.

 

Ensure your safety as well as others around you, by simply observing local laws and using good judgment and common sense.

As a reminder, the use of fireworks by an amateur is illegal in The State of New York. If you are using fireworks and cause damage to yourself or your property, this will not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance.

  • If the damage is caused to your property by another person’s fireworks, there is coverage for this event on your Homeowners policy.
  • Sparklers and party poppers are considered legal fireworks and damage to your property would be covered in the event of this accident.

 Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July holiday from our C.H. Edwards, Inc. Family to yours!

by Denise Visco

What does Thanksgiving mean to you?

What does Thanksgiving mean to you?

As Thanksgiving rapidly approaches, we tend to get caught up in the preparations of the meal, watching of parades and sporting events and spending time with family and friends. For some, the planning and strategizing for shopping the sales of Black Friday and Cyber Monday consume our thoughts. Have we forgotten the real reason we celebrate Thanksgiving?

The first Thanksgiving was celebrated as a way for the Pilgrims to give thanks for the opportunity to begin a life in the New World. To get to this day, many survived illness and the restriction of freedoms that we now take for granted.

Thanksgiving is the one day a year set aside to give thanks. So what are you thankful for? This is a question that for many can bring about a storm of emotion. This question means something different to everyone.

In recent years, I made a choice to include my closest friends at my family table because close friends are as important to me as family. I am thankful for the opportunity to make this possible.

Thanksgiving is a time of reflection for me. I think of those no longer with me to celebrate the holidays and the memories of years gone by. I am thankful for my husband whose love and support I could not live without, my children who teach me what the meaning of love is every day, my family that remind me of where I started and how far we have come, my friends who support me in good times and difficult times and for the opportunities that I have been afforded to make this life one that I am proud of and happy to share with the people I care about.

However you decide to celebrate this year, I urge you to take time to remember why it is that we celebrate this day and to make thankfulness a part of each day not just Thanksgiving. In this fast paced world that we live in, it is too easy to forget to take time to slow down and remember just how we got here.

The Management and Staff of C.H. Edwards, Inc. would like to extend our best wishes for a very Happy Thanksgiving filled with the opportunity to make memories with those you cherish the most!

Written by: Denise Visco

National America Recycles Day

National America Recycles Day

National America Recycles Day

November 15th is National America Recycles Day. This day is dedicated to encouraging Americans to recycle and buy recycled products. The America Recycles movement was started in 1997 and since then has helped people everywhere learn the importance of recycling. In honor of today, here are some helpful tips to follow when going green and helping the environment.

Save energy to save money:

 – Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.

-Unplug appliances when you are not using them. Even if they are plugged in and not in use, energy is still being drawn to them.

Save water to save money:

-Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will also lower your water and heating bills.

-Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. 85% of the energy used to machine-wash clothes goes to heating your water.

Less Gas = more money:

-If you are traveling a short distance, consider walking or riding your bike instead of driving. Not only will this help the environment but it is better for your health also.

Recycle all plastic/glass bottles and papers:

-It may be a pain but be sure to recycle all of your used bottles and newspapers. Set up a separate recycle can outside by your garbage pails to help make sorting your trash easier.

Help make the earth a better place to live in today! Don’t forget to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Keeping Pets Safe on Halloween

Keeping Pets Safe on Halloween

It’s almost Halloween!  Costumes are purchased.  Decorations are in place and treats are being prepared for visiting trick or treaters.  Everything seems in place, but what about our pets?  Pets enjoy Halloween too so how do we keep them safe?

Candy, especially chocolate is a significant danger and can be poison to our pets.  Chocolate is dangerous for two reasons.  First, chocolate contains two chemicals-caffeine and theobromine which are stimulants.  Symptoms can begin in 6-12 hours after ingestion.  These symptoms can include panting, hyperactivity, increased thirst and urination.  High concentrations lead to irregular heart rhythms, seizures, coma, and even death.  There are all levels of sensitivity just like in people, some dogs and cats can be sensitive to chocolate and show signs of poisoning from much lesser amounts.

Chocolate is very high in sugar and fat.  This could cause mild diarrhea, or more dangerous gastroenteritis, pancreatitis and liver disease from ingestion of large amounts of chocolate.  Keep all candy out of the reach of pets and explain to young children that it is not safe to feed candy to dogs and cats.

If your pet is afraid of loud noises or frightened when people come to the door.  Speak to your veterinarian about a calming supplement or mild tranquilizer to get your pet through Halloween comfortably. Never do this on your own.  Consult a professional as the dose for pets is different than people. Be extremely cautious if your dog or cat goes out and navigates the yard on their own.  Don’t leave them unattended on Halloween night.  Pets innocently fall victim to Halloween pranks.

Our pets are special to us.  Don’t let their safety become less of a priority due to the excitement of the holiday.  With some planning, the day can be fun for the entire family.  Hopefully, this information will help to provide a safe environment for our pets.  Think Safety First and Have a Happy Halloween!

by Denise Visco

 

Candy Corn Fun Facts

Candy Corn Fun Facts

Although everyone might seem pumpkin spice crazy at the moment, there is always one Halloween classic treat that will never be forgotten. And that is, candy corn. This sweet treat is a Halloween staple and often overlooked. We are going to give you some Halloween fun facts that you might not have known. And after reading our facts, let us know your favorite! And don’t forget to enjoy this classic treat on October 30th because that is National Candy Corn day!

• The original name for candy corn was “Chick Feed” and was marketed toward farmers.

• Candy corn has been around for over 130 years when George Renninger, a candy maker at the Wunderlee Candy Company, stumbled upon the perfect mixture of corn syrup, sugar and marshmallow flavoring, which invented the tri-color candy in 1880.

• Americans have debated on the style of how the kernels should be consumed. According to a survey, 46.8% of people think that the whole kernel should be eaten at once, compared to 42.7% that start at the white, narrow end. While the remaining 10.6% of people start at the wider yellow end.

• A recent CNN Facebook survey found that older people tend to like candy corn more than younger ones do. The study also found that 86% of females love candy corn compared to 14% of males.

• According to Google Insights, candy corn is the most searched for candy term in Google. Alabama has the highest about of candy corn searches out of all 50 states. The only thing sweeter than “Sweet Home Alabama” is the candy corn itself.

Written by: Sandra Costanzo

You Made it through the Holidays, Now take time to Just Breathe!

You Made it through the Holidays, Now take time to Just Breathe!

Wellness Wednesday
 
You made it through the Holidays, Now take time to Just Breathe!
 
The hustle and bustle of the holidays are over. The shopping, holiday parties, late nights, overindulgence of all the holiday favorites are now behind you. Take the time to Just Breathe!
 
The idea of New Year Resolutions weigh on your mind and the conversation of the New Year brings a fresh start and new opportunity, Don’t let this overwhelm you. Just Breathe!
 
It is natural to put this pressure on yourself with all the conversation that revolves around the New Year. More celebrations, starting a diet or fitness program, putting away the holiday decorations and taking on holiday returns. Just Breathe!
 
Pace yourself and be kind to yourself. There is plenty of time to get all of these things done. Take this time for yourself and Just Breathe!
 
Breathing is a daily function that keeps us alive but the flow of oxygen and the release of the breath during an exhale involves many functions in our body. Take time to consider this. During the exhale, oxygen is transferred into the bloodstream, decreasing stress, which is critical on days that you need the most energy.
 
It is recommended that an energizing breath be one where you breathe in through your nose while counting to four, then exhale through your mouth and count to four. Repeat this five to ten times. Be Mindful. During this time try to clear your mind of to-do lists and concerning thoughts. It is also important to stay hydrated during this exercise. Take this time for you and Just Breathe!
 
Wellness Wednesday topics are designed to bring topics of wellness to your attention and should never be viewed as medical advice or to replace a medical professional.
 
Your feedback is important to us. Please let us know if you have tried any of these tips or if there are any topics that you would like to see covered.
 
by Denise Visco
 
For more information on Home, Auto, Business, Life, Umbrella or Flood Insurance contact C.H. Edwards, Inc.
www.chedwards.net
 
#WellnessWednesday #JustBreathe #NewYearResolutions #BeKindtoYourself #Mindfulness #LongIslandInsurance #CHEdwardsInsurance #Farmingdale #ViscoFamilyInsurance #WadingRiver
Decorating Safely for the Holidays

Decorating Safely for the Holidays

Don’t let fire or accident spoil your holiday season.  Use these tips to keep your family safe while celebrating all winter long!

The winter holidays are a time for fun, family, and festivities.  That often means more cooking, decorating, entertaining and shortcuts.  Christmas trees, candles, and holiday lights are responsible for hundreds of fires and accidents each year.  Before you deck your halls, make sure you’re following these safety tips.

-Inspect your holiday decorations carefully to make sure there are no loose or frayed wires.  Choose those made with flame-resistant, flame-retardant or non-combustible materials.

-Keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials, and do not use candles to decorate your Christmas tree.

-Purchase only lights and electrical decorations bearing the name of an independent testing lab, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance

-Do not overload extension cords.

-Always unplug lights before replacing light bulbs or fuses.

-Don’t use clips or nails that puncture your light cords wire insulation.

-Keep children and pets away from light strings and electrical decorations

-Turn off all lights and decorations when you head out for the day or go to bed at night.

-Test your smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly as a backup

-If you have a real tree, keep it moist by watering frequently.

-Candle fires in the home are reported to a U.S. Fire Department every 34 minutes during the holidays.  If you are decorating with candles, make sure they are far away from any item that can burn such as furniture, bedding, curtains or other decorations.

Follow these safety tips to ensure Happy Holidays for all!

These tips are designed as general information that may apply to many situations.  Please take them and apply them to your specific information.

For more information on Home, Auto, Business, Life or Flood Insurance, contact the specialists at C.H. Edwards, Inc.  We are happy to provide you with the information that will best protect your family.  www.chedwards.net

 

 

 

 

 

Why Washing Your Car In The Winter Is So Important

Why Washing Your Car In The Winter Is So Important

If you live in a snowy area like here in New York, chances are your car is looking pretty dirty these days.

Road salt, dirt, and snow can make your car unrecognizable.

Washing your car during the winter season may seem like a waste of time, but, it is worth it in the long run.

Road salt and moisture can cause rust on a car. Not only is rust hard to stop but it can truly do damage to your vehicle.

Taking care of your car now means that it will last longer and its overall value will remain high.

Be sure to give your vehicle a rough scrub and a waxing. Pay close attention to the areas behind the wheels, quarter panels and front grille. These are the main areas where salt and dirt are collected.

If you don’t want to do the work yourself, invest a few dollars at your local car wash. Chances are for the price you pay, your car will get an excellent wash and wax.

Winterizing your car doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. It just takes a little time.

How will you take care of your car this winter season?

Fire Place Safety

Fire Place Safety

The chilly months are here and there is no better way to warm up than next to your fire place.

It’s important to use extra precautions when burning wood in your fire place. Just a few simple safety tips will go a long way when it comes to protecting your home and family from a possible mishap.

Only burn dry, cured wood. Wood that has been split, stacked and dried for eight to twelve months is ideal.

Burn Firewood and only firewood! Other woods such as construction scraps, painted wood’s and treated woods release chemicals into your home. Not only does this compromise the air quality in your home but it can be deadly in some situations.

Have a chimney cap installed. This will prevent objects and critters from entering through and coming in your home.

Be sure to install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors near your fireplace as well as hallways and bedroom areas.

Do you have any fire place safety tips to share with us? Let us know!

Stay safe and warm this winter season.

 

Maintaining Your New Year Resolutions

Maintaining Your New Year Resolutions

New Year’s Resolutions can be hard to keep when your list of goals is as long as your shopping list. Add on some stress and post-holiday slump and you’re feeling hopeless!

Don’t panic! Here are some tips to help keep your resolutions in check and on track.

Start small. Don’t jump into an unrealistic resolution. For example, instead of promising yourself to go to the gym five times a week, make a promise of three days. This will help you feel more accomplished and help your strive towards the five days.

Change one behavior at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that you have to reassess everything in your life. Instead, focus on changing one thing at a time.

Talk about it. Share your goals and expectations with your family and friends. Having a support system will help you in achieving your goals.

Don’t beat yourself up. If you promised yourself to eat healthy this year and splurge on a bowl of ice cream. Don’t get down about it. We are all human and we are far from perfect. One bowl of ice cream or even a cookie will not permanently destroy your resolution. Everyone has up and downs. Simply recover from your mistakes and get back on track.

What are your New Year resolutions for 2018?