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Summer Driving Safety Tips

Summer Driving Safety Tips

summer driving 1Summer is finally here and it’s time to start preparing your vehicles for long summer trips. Ensuring that your vehicle is safe and ready to drive is imperative when keeping you and your loved ones safe. If you haven’t done so already, these are the top five things you should begin checking on your vehicles:

 

1. Tire Tread – make sure theresummer driving 2 is enough tread on your tires to guarantee an efficient grip on the pavement when driving and braking.

2. Suspension – if your car dips or rocks when you go over bumps, or drift around corners (even at low speeds) it may be time to replace your vehicle’s shocks or struts.

3. Alignment – potholes and rough road surfaces from winter weather don’t just make for a bad ride, they can affect the alignment of your wheels. Misaligned wheels can cause a multitude of problems, including uneven tire wear.

4. Under-inflated Tires – make sure your tires have enough air in them to prevent them from going flat.

Turning on the AC in a hot car5. Air conditioning – make sure your air conditioner is working properly to prevent heat exhaustion when taking long trips. This is especially important when traveling with young children and the elderly.

If you have not already, make an appointment with your local Auto Care Facility, so they can properly inspect your vehicle to determine any existing or future problems.

Remember, if you are involved in an automobile accident and need to report a claim, make sure to contact your Insurance Agent as soon as possible so the claims process can begin and you and your car can get back on the road safely.

If you are interested in receiving a quotation for automobile insurance, give C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call at 516-249-5200, and one of our automobile specialists will be happy to help you find coverage while saving you money.

For more information visit our website at www.chedwards.net
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Drive safely this summer!

Written by: Amanda Haase

Things To Consider Before You Choose a Summer Camp

Things To Consider Before You Choose a Summer Camp

The weather is finally getting warmer and thoughts of sunny summer days are upon us. School will be ending soon and summer camp may be in the picture. Finding the right summer camp for your child’s particular needs may not be as simple as you may think. Start early to ensure that you get exactly what you are looking for. Here are some tips to get you started whether your looking for a day camp or a sleepaway camp.

Staff –A good staff can make all the difference! Are the staff members skilled in engaging a shy student that may have a difficult 3-summer-camps-for-kids-with-celiac-diseasetime coming out of there shell? How long have the staff members been working with the camp? Are they trained in emergency procedures and CPR? Are background checks done on every employee? What is the counselor to camper ratio? In the case of a sleepaway camp, how do they handle homesickness? A good facility will be eager to answer your questions.

What is a camp day like? If early enough, can visitation be arranged? A good, well-rounded camp day should have varied activities to meet the needs of all campers unless you opt for a specialized camp such as for sports, music or dance. Is food provided or supplied by the family?

Ask to see schedules and inquiry how closely they are adhered to. If it is a specialized camp, make sure the kids have the opportunity for downtime and to take part in activities that are not geared toward their specialty. In the case of a sleepaway camp, what are the daily menus like, what kind of activities do they offer in the evening and what is the counselor to camper ratio at this time? Are there family visiting days?

Goals-A good camp should be dedicated to making sure they provide campers with good, safe fun! Parents should look for a camp that is looking to foster relationships. Since summer camp is a seasonal activity, it should be a goal of the camp to provide the best possible experience to the campers so that they want to return the following year. Friendships among campers and comradery with staffers would be a sure way of making that happen. Making memories will ensure for a positive camp experience and the likelihood of a camper begging to return and make choosing a camp easier in the coming years.

Now that we discussed some of the criteria for choosing a summer camp, the rest is up to you and the camper. Make a list of camps to be considered, what you expect of the program and get out and find the one that is best suited for you and your child.

Don’t forget to check with your insurance agent if you decide on a sleep-away camp.  Make sure you have off-premises theft coverage to cover your child’s belongings while they are away.

Have a wonderful summer and may your days be filled with Happy Campers!

For more information on Home, Auto, Business, Life, and Flood Insurance contact our office at 516-249-5200.

Written by: Denise Visco

Controlling Your Seasonal Allergies

Controlling Your Seasonal Allergies

pollen  If you have allergies or asthma, spring and summer can be a tough time of the year. As spring and summer approach us, temperature and humidity changes as well as high pollen counts will be in the air! There are three ways to treat seasonal allergies, environmental control, medication, and immunotherapy. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider about treatment options if you suffer from seasonal allergies.

Along with healthcare treatments, you can control the source of the allergens by simply following some of these helpful tips:

Keep pollen under control by washing your bedding every week in hot water. Before getting into bed at night, shower and wash your hair to wash away allergens in your hair.nasal

Go natural and try using a saline nasal spray to cleanse and clear your sinuses.

Seasonal allergies are brutal on the body’s ability to stay hydrated. Drinking a lot of water to flush your system will promote the elimination of unwanted toxins in your system.

Clean all of the surfaces in your home. Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning, vacuuming, or painting to limit dust and chemical exposure.

In addition to cleaning all the surfaces in your home, it is important to clean damp areas such as your bath tub and shower stalls to avoid the growth of mold.

Shake out and wash your throw rugs. Throw rugs can hold a lot of allergens from pet, dust, etc. To reduce dust and mold build up, give them a good shake at least twice a week and throw them in the wash at least once a week.

shake-the-rugKeep the air in your home clean. Keep windows closed to reduce pollen from entering the house. Change the filters in you air conditioning units and vents frequently during this time of year.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, talk to your doctor today. Don’t your seasonal allergies keep you away from the beautiful weather!

Written by: Amanda Haase

Discover Long Islands East End!

Discover Long Islands East End!

 

Farm blogLong Island is known for salty beaches and wide open spaces. Many people may not know about the treasures you can discover on the east end of our Island. Small towns and wonderful Bed & Breakfasts are the back drop for a wonderful getaway.

A perfect weekend getaway or day trip for Long Islanders is to the east end to visit our beautiful farms. Every season there is something new to pick on our farms. From Pumpkins and apples in the Fall, to Blueberries, Strawberries, vegetables and Lavender in the Summer time. The Vineyards are a “must see” in both Summer and Fall. Fresh baked pies are available year round and for a limited time in the Fall, there’s Apple Cider donuts!

In addition to picking fresh fruits and vegetables in the Fall, you can also enjoy Hay Rides, Corns Mazes and the annual “Spooky Walk” at Camp Paquatuck in Center Moriches during Halloween season. (To learn more about the Spooky Walk, visit www.spookywalk.com)

Long Islands Farms and attractions are staffed by friendly locals willing to help you achieve the experience you are looking for. Not only is this a fun trip for a weekend but it is also an awesome and interactive way to spend time with your loved ones.

Visit www.eastendgetaway.com for a listing of Long Island farms as well as Vineyards, Shows and Attractions, Accommodations and even Dining and Shopping!

Take a trip and experience the beauty of Long Island’s East end.

 

What All Drivers Should Know About Sharing The Road With School Buses.

What All Drivers Should Know About Sharing The Road With School Buses.

school bus blog

Just because the school year has ended for the summer, doesn’t mean school buses are off the road. Many families utilize school buses for camp and summer school programs. Buses are still all over the roads each morning carrying students to their daily activities. It is important to know how to share the roads and stay safe.

  • When a school bus stops and the red lights are flashing, traffic in both directions must stop. This rule even applies on a divided highway or school parking lot.
  • Students should always cross the street in front of the bus. Pay careful attention for this. Bus drivers will as well.
  • Lights will continue to flash until the student has reached the other side of the road or if staying on the same side, is 15 feet from the bus.

This is not just a courtesy, it’s the law. New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (Section 1174) states that an illegal passing penalty for first time offenders carries a fine of between $250-$400, plus 5 points on your license and even the possibility of jail time. Points on your license can make it difficult to obtain new automobile insurance coverage or may increase the rate on your current policy.
We often drive to and from in a hurry to get to our destination. Make some extra time to practice safety!

Now you know the facts. Let’s share the road responsibly and make this a safe summer driving season.

Burglar’s Don’t Vacation Like You Do!

Burglar’s Don’t Vacation Like You Do!

Burglary blogFor many Long Island folks, it’s Vacation season! Everyone is headed to their favorite getaway place, but Burglars don’t vacation the way you do. Their favorite “getaway vacation” is your unoccupied home! To make sure your home is protected while you are away, follow some of these simple tips to ensure that you will come home to amity.

  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery or have a neighbor collect them for you while you are away.
  • Have your lawns mowed, so it looks that the home is be kept up with. This is especially important if you are planning a trip where you will be gone for a few weeks.
  • Investing in an automatic timer will help turn your living room lights on and off so that when it gets darker at night, it will appear that someone is in the house.
  • Tell your close neighbors that you will be going away and ask if they can keep an eye on your house.
  • Double bolt your doors before leaving and set your alarm if you have one already installed.
  • If you do not have a burglar alarm already installed, before you leave for your trip invest in installing one.
  • Put cash, jewelry and other valuable items in a safe in your house or a safe deposit box at your bank.

Before leaving for your trip, call your Insurance agency and make sure your coverage is sufficient in-case of a break in! If you do not already have coverage on your valuable items such as your jewelry, furs, cameras and expensive computers, call C.H. Edwards and we will be happy to assist you in finding a policy that fits you, and your needs.

Following these simple steps will protect your home, belongings and your ease of mind while enjoying your vacation with your loved ones.

 

Better to be “safe” than “sorry” this Graduation Season!

Better to be “safe” than “sorry” this Graduation Season!

graduation blog pic

High school students across Long Island look forward to the Spring season. Many of them will be attending graduation ceremonies and parties. This may be an exciting time for teens but a terrifying time for parents who are concerned about their children’s safety. Around this time of year, many teens are involved in automobile accidents due to being distracted, texting or driving under the influence.

There are numerous ways parents can prepare themselves for this time of year and ensure their teen is arriving safely to graduation parties and home.

Here are some helpful tips to keeping your teen safe and putting your mind at ease:

  • Make sure your son/daughter has a plan for the evening and that you know what it is.
  • Know who is driving to and from parties.
  • If you are holding a party for your child, take stock of your alcohol in your home prior to the beginning of the night.
  • Always let your son/daughter know that you will be available to pick them up if they feel unsafe regardless of the circumstance.
  • Communicate with other parents to know where your children will be and who will be supervising.
  • Before hosting your party set clear rules in advance for the night of the party. Discuss the rules and consequences of breaking them with teens before the night begins and reinforce them. Rules should include: No drugs or alcohol and no leaving the party and then returning.
  • Offer non-alcoholic beverages and do not serve alcohol.
  • When greeting guests at the door watch for large bags that guests might use to smuggle in alcohol. Have guests put their belongings in a room close to where you will be staying so you can watch if they are going to their bags to get alcohol/drugs that may have gotten past you at the door.
  • Check your yard/house and number of guests frequently to avoid having guests who might leave and return without your knowledge.
  • Make it clear that you will not allow any uninvited guests to crash the party. Parties can get out of control if the number of guests continues to grow through the night.
  • Follow these helpful tips and if your teen is driving on Graduation night make sure they are insured.

Have a safe Graduation!

Combat Your Spring & Summer Allergies

Combat Your Spring & Summer Allergies

If you have allergies or asthma, spring and summer can be challenging times of the year. Spring and summer are known for temperature and humidity changes as well as high pollen counts. The morning is when the pollen count is at its highest. There are three phases to treating seasonal allergies: environmental control, medication, and immunotherapy. Don’t let those spring and summer allergies bog you down! Here are a few tips to combat your spring and summer allergies:

  • Keep Pollen under Control- Wash bedding every week in hot water. Wash your hair and shower before going to bed, since pollen can accumulate in hair.
  • Go natural and try using nasal irrigation to cleanse and clear your sinuses.
  • Seasonal allergies are brutal on the body’s ability to stay hydrated. Drinking a lot of water to flush your system will support the
  • elimination of foreign irritants in your system.
  • Clean Every Surface- Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning, vacuuming, or painting to limit dust and chemical exposure. Vacuum twice a week.
  • Wash Rugs- Limit throw rugs to reduce dust and mold build up. If you do have rugs, make sure they are washable.
  • Keep Indoor Air Clean- Keep windows closed to reduce pollen from entering the house. Change filters in air conditioning units and vents frequently during this time of year.
  • Preventing pollen from building up on your eye lashes by wearing large sunglasses.

If you are an allergy sufferer don’t let the beautiful weather keep you inside!

Protecting Your Skin this Summer Season!

Protecting Your Skin this Summer Season!

Summer is right around the corner! Where will be your hot spot this summer season? The beach or the pool? No matter where you’re headed, make sure you protect your skin by wearing sunblock. Everyone loves a beautiful tan, but make sure you are being safe about it, so you can decrease your chance or wrinkles and melanoma.

Many people don’t know what a tan really is. A tan works as a shield from radiation. Imagine thousands of tiny umbrellas in your skin that open more, the more they are exposed to the sun, which in turn makes your skin look darker.

A tan does not cause cancer or damage, but is rather the visible evidence that damage to your skin cells has already occurred.

Wearing Sunblock will prevent you from tanning. It will protect you against harmful UV rays that the sun gives off. When being out in the sun, be cautious of the time you’re spending out there. Be careful between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. that is when the sun is at its hottest point.

Many people using tanning oils to increase how dark their skin looks. That is ok too! Tanning oils are not bad. The purpose of tanning oil is not to block out sun like sunscreen, but to concentrate the radiation from the sun to expedite the “shielding” process of your skin.

Only use tanning oils which offer some sun protection; SPF 15 or higher is best. Like sunscreen, coat your entire body in tanning oil and reapply often to ensure an adequate amount of protection.

Go out and enjoy the sun, but be safe and protect yourself!

 

Take a bite into National Salad Month!

Take a bite into National Salad Month!

arugula-salad-ck-1734329-l

Summer is coming and it’s National Salad Month! Get into shape with a healthy recipe for a crisp green salad and a delicious side of no guilt.

Recipe:

What you will need-

  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon stone-ground mustard
  • 2 teaspoons grape seed oil
  • 7 cups loosely packed baby arugula
  • 2 cups red grapes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sunflower seed kernels
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preparation-

  1. Combine vinegar, honey, syrup, and mustard in a small bowl.  Gradually add oil, stirring with a whisk.
  2. Combine arugula, grapes, seeds, and thyme in a large bowl.  Drizzle vinegar mixture over arugula; sprinkle with salt and pepper.  Toss gently to coat.

ENJOY!