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National Walk Your Pet Month

National Walk Your Pet Month

January is National Walk Your Pet Month. During these cold winter months, it is important to keep your four legged friend warm when taking them for walks.

Many people are under the impression that dogs have a better capability of surviving cold temperatures than humans. However, this is not entirely true. Dogs may have the advantage of a fur coat but it does not mean they can stay warm in bitter cold temperatures.

Here are some helpful tips to follow, when keeping your dog warm during outdoor winter activities:

1. Dress your dog in a warm sweater when going on walks and playing outside. This extra layer of warmth will allow your dog to have more time outside without getting cold too quickly.

2. Slip on some dog booties. Dog booties are a great way to keep your dog’s paws warm when walking them in cold weather conditions such as snow.

3. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure they have the proper housing to shelter them. Their doghouse should have a sloped roof, insulation and even a heater if they will be in there for an extended amount of time.

4. Provide more food during winter months. Dogs use up more calories in the winter trying to stay warm. Providing a little extra food will allow your dog to have more energy.

Don’t forget the occasional treat and the belly rub. Nothing warms your dog’s heart and soul more than special food, and attention from their very best friend.

Written by: Amanda Haase

January is Eye Care Awareness Month

January is Eye Care Awareness Month

January is Eye Care Awareness month. Many think that eye exams and checkups are not as important as annual physicals from your primary doctor. That is not always the case.

It’s generally not necessary to see an eye doctor every 6 months for an eye exam, however, it is important to know when you should get your eyes checked. Age and medical conditions are two things to consider when making this choice.

Here are some other signs and symptoms that will let you know when it is time for an eye exam:

Sudden blurry vision or focus problems can be a sign of a larger health issue and should always be taken seriously. Even if it is happening in just one eye, play it safe and get it checked out.

Sudden appearances of visual disturbances such as floaters can be a sign of a retinal detachment, a retinal tear, or a retinal hole. If you experience this symptom, be sure to seek medical attention to avoid future vision loss or damage.

Gradual Blurring of Vision usually occurs over time or as we get older. If you have to move closer or further away from objects to have a better focus, it’s time to get a checkup.

Frequent or recurring headaches can be a closely related sign of a vision problem as well.

Having some infrequent eye pain or eye strain isn’t usually a big problem. However, if you are experiencing frequent eye pains or need to strain your eyes to focus, this could very well be a sign of a vision problem.

It is important that you and your family to get eyes checked today. Schedule an appointment with your eye care specialist for the New Year to avoid any future problems.

If you don’t have an eye doctor, find one at www.allaboutvision.com. This sight will help you locate an eye doctor in your area.

For more informational blogs like this one, visit our website at www.chedwards.net

Written by: Amanda Haase

Make Safe Travel #1 on your Holiday List

Make Safe Travel #1 on your Holiday List

Fact, the United States Department of Transportation says the Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year’s holiday periods are among the busiest long-distance travel periods of the year.

Approximately 90 percent of holiday travel takes place by personal vehicle, followed by air, bus and train. With so many people on the move, the risk for accidents and other incidents increases.

Keep the holidays enjoyable and safe, be sure to exercise caution and keep these few tips in mind:

Schedule a tune-up. Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the air pressure in tires and get an oil change your car is due. Other cars on the road may kick up salt and other debris from the road. Be sure to top off windshield washer fluid to maintain visibility.

Schedule plenty of time for travel. Expect traffic and leave extra time to get to your destination. Rushing may cause you to increase your speed or make risky choices behind the wheel of your car that may result in an accident or injury. Leave extra time for traveling through hazardous conditions like snow, sleet or heavy rain. Schedule time for bathroom and stretch breaks.
Know multiple routes to your destination. The increased volume or accidents on the roadways can result in detours. Make sure your navigation is up to date and a map in your glove box.

Leave room for emergency supplies. Make available room in your car for a change of clothes, a blanket, snacks and water, jumper cables and a flashlight. Drivers should be prepared for a breakdown. If you are a AAA member, remember the holidays are a time when the local companies have crews on holiday schedule and response time may be increased.

Keep the family entertained. A long trip can seem longer without proper planning. Plan for some activities ahead of time. Games, books, videos/dvds and music can help fill the time. Make frequent stops for bathroom and stretch breaks. Don’t forget to pack food and drinks to keep rest break times to a minimum. “Are we there yet” is not a phrase only used by children.

Take turns driving. If you are fortunate enough to travel with multiple drivers, take turns driving. Spending long periods of time behind the wheel can cause fatigue. If you are driving alone, plan for breaks to rest. Drowsy driving is a major cause of accidents on the roadways.
Secure packages and Luggage. Tie down items on roof racks and in rear cargo areas of SUV’s and vans so they are not moving around freely. In the event of an accident, items that are not secured can be dangerous.

Pack gifts and other items so that the driver’s line of sight is not impeded.

Last but certainly not least, review your insurance coverage. During an emergency you want to be assured that you have rental reimbursement, full glass coverage, towing, medical reimbursement and your course collision. A call to your insurance agent can never hurt. If you are unable to reach them or feel it is time for an insurance review, feel free to call C.H. Edwards, Inc. at 516-249-5200 and we would be happy to assist you.

If holiday travel is on your to do list, remember to make safety a priority.

Happy Holidays from your friends at C.H. Edwards, Inc.!

Written by: Denise Visco

What to do in the event of an Automobile Accident

What to do in the event of an Automobile Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a very frightening event for the drivers involved. Here are some things to remember should this happen to you.

-First, stop your vehicle and remain calm.

-Determine if there are any injuries and call for medical assistance if
necessary.

-Call the police to report the accident. Don’t forget to ask the
officer when you can obtain a copy of the report.

-Do not admit to fault of liability. Discuss the accident with only the police and your insurance representative.

-Exchange information, If possible, at the scene. Name, phone number, license numbers of all drivers and passengers and witnesses to the accident, including pedestrians, bicyclists, etc. Ask all drivers for their insurance information.

-Record all details of the accident immediately so nothing is lost or forgotten.

-Important factors to consider are time of accident, weather conditions, direction vehicles were traveling in, condition of the vehicles as well as note any traffic signs, lights or road markings at the site of the accident.

All of the above information is important to have available when calling a claim into your Insurance Agent. Keep a copy of this information in your glove box for safe keeping in the event of an accident.

Has your Insurance Agent ever provided you with this important information? If not, maybe it’s time to consider another agent. C.H. Edwards, Inc. is an Independent Insurance agency located in Farmingdale, New York. We have been in business since 1925 providing our clients with the best customer service and competitive pricing. Call for your
no obligation quote today 516-249-5200.

Written by: Denise A. Visco

Common Teen Driving Mistakes

Common Teen Driving Mistakes

Fact: Teen drivers are nearly four times as likely to crash when on the road. Below are some of the most common mistakes made by teen drivers:

Peer Pressure – friends encouraging the driver to turn up the music, or violate other family rules, to distract the driver.

Drinking and Driving – In 2013, 17 percent of drivers ages 16-20 were involved in fatal car crashes, due to intoxication. Do not drink and drive!

Distractions – Distractions while driving are more than just cell phones. Talking to passengers, using navigation systems, and applying makeup while driving all count as distractions.

Failure to wear a seatbelt – Seatbelts save an estimated 12,174 lives each year. 55 percent of teens killed in car crashes were not wearing seat belts. Buckle up! It is the law!

Underestimating the risks that come with driving – Teens often underestimate the risks and responsibilities that come with getting behind the wheel, making them feel invincible. This can lead to careless, dangerous mistakes.

Driving at night – A teen driver’s chance of being involved in a deadly car crash doubles, when they travel at night. This can be due to limited visibility and other dangers on the road.

Having multiple passengers – When your teen drives with multiple passengers in their car, their risk of being involved in a car crash increases 44% due to possible increased distractions, caused by the passengers.

Loud Music – “Cranking up the tunes” and adjusting the radio can cause major distractions while driving.

Overestimating their driving abilities – Overestimating their driving abilities, such as what speed they are comfortable at, as well as maneuvering on the road, can be dangerous to them and other drivers.

Fast or reckless driving – Going too fast, tailgating, and road rage are often primary factor in teen crashes.

Although these facts may seem unfortunate, talk to your son or daughter about these dangers before this upcoming winter driving season. It is Important to protect them and others when they are behind the wheel.

If you have any further questions regarding the information provided or you have a new teen driver that you are looking to insure, give C.H. Edwards a call today at 516-249-5200 for a free no obligation quote for the whole family! Please visit our website at www.chedwards.net.

Let us help you get covered! Please drive safely.

Written by: Amanda Haase

October is Emotional Wellness Awareness Month

October is Emotional Wellness Awareness Month

Aside from being physically healthy, it is important to keep your mind healthy. Simple things like controlling your stress levels and getting enough sleep can help and play a big roll in your mental health.

If you overexert yourself on a hot day or stay up for 24 hours with no sleep, you probably wouldn’t be surprised if your body suddenly “broke down”. Your mind is subject to the same rules, meaning that it can only take so much stress before it breaks down.

Here are 8 strategies to stay emotionally healthy:

  1. Be an optimist and look on the bright side of everything.
  2. Have hope and know that things will get better during dark times.
  3. Accept yourself. Instead of pondering on all the things you dislike about yourself, think about all the good things that define you and make you, you!
  4. Stay connected and go out with family and friends often. It is always good to be surrounded by people that love you.
  5. Express gratitude. Studies show that people who are thankful are better at dealing with stress.
  6. Find your purpose and meaning. Set goals for yourself and thrive on your natural talents.
  7. Exercise regularly, a little bit of exercise every day is good for your well being; it helps you concentrate and get things off your mind.
  8. Practice mindfulness; meaning really focus and appreciate the moment of time that you are in.

Start practicing good mental health today. Just like a workout for your body, here’s a workout for your mind.

 

 

Tips To Staying Safe On Your Summer Road Trip Vacation

Tips To Staying Safe On Your Summer Road Trip Vacation

summer driving photoSummer is finally here and that means one thing – it’s road trip season! Whether you plan on following your favorite band around the country, taking a family vacation or diner hoping, it is important to stay safe while on your trip. Check out these seven tips to staying safe on your road trip vacation:

 

1. Before you go, check your oil, and any other fluids that may be low.

tires photo2. Make sure tires are properly inflated and inspect them for excessive wear.

3. If the battery in your vehicle is more then three years old, have it tested. You may even want to replace it.

(Please see our Summer Safety Driving Tips blog for more information regarding vehicle maintenance) https://www.chedwards.net/blog/summer-driving-safety-tips/#/

4. When you plan a trip, time your route so you drive through the busiest places during non-peak travel hours.

5. When you and your family take a break from driving to eat or sleep, either bring your pricey gadgets with you or hide them inside your locked car to avoid theft.

6. Avoid speeding and rapid accelerations to conserve your gas. Remember, hauling heavy cargo is bad for fuel economy as well.

7. Pack emergency supplies of food, water, tools, a cell phone charger, and a flashlight. You may not need them but it never hurts to be safe rather than sorry.

Make sure when you plan your summer road trip you follow these driving photohelpful, safety tips to protect your loved ones. If you are interested in receiving a free, no obligation Automobile quote please give C.H. Edwards a call at 516-249-5200, and let us help you get covered!

Drive safe this summer season!

Written by: Amanda Haase

10 Swimming Pool Safety Tips

10 Swimming Pool Safety Tips

Suinground pool photommer time is here and it’s time to “dive in”. Whether you have a luxury in-ground pool, or plan on installing one in the near future, it is essential to consider the safety effects that come with this special feature of your home.

Before you and your family jump in to cool off, consider taking the following steps:

 

1. Contact your town or municipality to make sure you comply with your local safety standards and building codes.

2. Call your insurance agent or company representative to advise them that you have a pool and speak to them about an umbrella liability policy for additional liability protection.

3. Install a four-sided barrier such as a fence with self closing gates to completely surround the pool.

4. If the house forms the fourth side of the barrier, install alarms on doors leading to the pool area to prevent children from wandering into the pool or spa unsupervised.

children swimming photo5. Never leave small children unsupervised—even for a few seconds.

6. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing.

7. Before allowing your company access to your pool or spa, ask them if they know how to swim. Learners should be accompanied by a good swimmer.

8. Check the pool area regularly for glass bottles, toys or other potential accident hazards.

9. Limit alcohol use around the pool. An impaired family member or friend can put themselves in great danger while under the influence and near the pool.

10. Clearly post emergency numbers on the phone, in the event of an accident.

Consider taking these steps this pool season and go the extra mile by purchasing an umbrella policy to protect you above and beyond what your homeowner’s policy would normally.

Give C.H. Edwards a call today at 516-249-5200 for a free no obligation quote on an umbrella policy.

For more information visit our website at www.chedwards.net or email us at info@chedwards.net.

Swim Safely this Summer Season!

Written by: Amanda Haase

Photo by Decorative Concrete Kingdom

Photo by Lars Plougmann

It’s Hurricane Season on Long Island and Now Is The Time To Start Preparing

It’s Hurricane Season on Long Island and Now Is The Time To Start Preparing

It’s Hurricane Season on Long Island and now is the time to start preparing for a possible storm. Natural Disasters can be a devastating time for families, but being prepared for these events can help the healing process, not only for your personal property, but healing as a family.

Follow these tips when preparing for a Hurricane:

Before a Hurricane

-Locate your residence’s emergency water shut-off valve and remove any shrubbery or obstructions.

-Turn off the emergency water shut-off valve if you are leaving your residence. This will help minimize damage to your homes interior should a pipe burst.

-If you turn off the water in your home, make sure to turn off the hot water heater. Some water heaters can be damaged if water supply is turned off for an extended period of time.

-Locate your sewer clean-out lid and remove any shrubbery or obstructions in case the clean-out needs to be utilized after the storm.
After a Hurricane

-Due to power outages, understand that you could be operating under limited conditions and pressures could be reduced.

-Limit the amount of toilet flushing.

-Avoid running a dishwasher and clothes washer.

-Limit the amount of water used when bathing

IT IS BEST TO CONSERVE ALL WATER THAT IS AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME!

Now is the time to call your local Insurance Agency and make sure that your home is covered properly and if a Flood Insurance Policy is necessary in your area.

Remember, Hurricane season is among us. Be prepared before a storm hits. If you have damage to your home or car during a Hurricane make sure to contact your Insurance Agent promptly to ensure a speedy recovery.

If you have any questions regarding Hurricane damage or you are interested in a quotation for a Flood policy, give C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call at 516-249-5200 and our Flood Insurance specialist can assist you in finding coverage that is best fit for your home.

*Please be advised, that any flood related damages to your home, are not covered in a typical homeowners policy. An additional flood policy is required, to be covered for hurricane damage.*

Visit our website www.chedwards.net
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Written by: Amanda Haase