Winter Safety Tips Driving & Outdoors

Winter driving season has arrived. It’s amazing how many motorists have forgotten their winter driving skills during the short summer months. The fact is many crashes occur when motorists do not anticipate the road surface conditions.

Many people get into trouble by assuming the roads will not be slippery unless the temperature is freezing or below. Ice can form on road surfaces any time the air temperature drops to 40 degrees or less and especially in windy conditions. Bridges and underpasses can be especially hazardous, as the ability of moisture to dissipate from the roadway is different, along with varying surface angles. Low or shaded areas and areas surrounded by landscaping can also contributetoo less than ideal road condition issues.

Intersections are also areas that although appear to be clear or only slightly wet are often ice covered and slippery. This is caused by moisture emitting from the exhaust of cars waiting at the intersection, which then quickly freezes on the pavement. It is also recommended that motorists
allow no less than a car-length in front of their vehicle when stopped behind other vehicles at intersections. They should also watch their rear-view mirrors for cars approaching too fast from behind. Often this extra margin of safety will allow drivers to pull forward in the event that an approaching vehicle begins to slide.

DRIVING TIPS
If you do find yourself beginning to slide on snow or ice, DON’T PANIC. Take your foot off the gas and DO NOT hit the brakes. If your vehicle begins to skid, (do not brake) and steer the vehicle in the direction you wish to go.
This technique is used in both front- and rear-wheel drive vehicles. If you must use the brakes, in ABS-equipped vehicles, use a firm, steady pressure WITHOUT pumping.

If your car is not equipped with ABS, gently pump the brake pedal without locking up the brakes Four-wheel-drive enthusiasts are reminded that although a four-wheel drive vehicle provides some additional traction in non-ideal weather conditions, drivers of these vehicles should take the same precautions as if they were driving in a non-four-wheel vehicle.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
Just as important as good driving skills, however, is preventative vehicle maintenance. Motoristsneed to make sure their vehicle is in good mechanical condition as weather conditions can cause unwanted vehicle issues.
𐂾 Make sure antifreeze is at the proper level
𐂾 Install new wiper blades and fill the washer reservoir
𐂾 Keep an extra bottle of washer solvent in the vehicle
𐂾 Make sure your battery terminals are clean and if the battery is more
than three year’s old, have it tested by a qualified technician
𐂾 Check your tire treads. Don’t assume your tires will make it another winter. Here’s a good tip, take a penny and stick it into the tread (head first), if you can see Lincoln’s head, it’s time toinvest in new tires. You should also check your tires air pressure monthly using an accurate pressure gauge. The correct PSI for your tires is located on your vehicle’s tire information
label, usually found on the technical information sheet located on the inside of your driver’s side door. You must open the door to view this information. Or look in your owner’s manual. At the very least, get your tires checked at a reputable tire dealer.

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES
Unexpected events can and do happen. By having an emergency kit prepared ahead of time and in your vehicle, you can increase your chances of arriving at your destination safely. Items in your emergency kit should include but are not limited to:
𐂾 Warm clothing, boots, stocking cap, gloves or mittens
𐂾 Flashlight with fresh batteries and flares
𐂾 Small shovel, sand or kitty litter
𐂾 Blankets
𐂾 Fresh first-aid supplies
𐂾 Drinking water, candy bars or other nutritious snacks
𐂾 Small candles and matches to light them with. A single lit candle can provide warmth for four hours.
𐂾 A charged cell phone or other communication device

Frozen car locks can also be a real safety issue. Carefully heating the end of a key with a match or a lighter will work most of the time. A squirt of de-icer spray that you can purchase at most gas stations and store it in your glove box is another quick method.

HOW DO I JUMP START MY BATTERY?𐂾 Safety Tips
- Batteries contain explosive gases. Don't strike a light while jumpstarting a car and don't try to jumpstart a damaged battery. Do not jumpstart a battery that is frozen.
- Batteries contain sulfuric acid. If any gets on your skin or in your eyes, flush with water and get medical help immediately. We recommend that you wear eye protection, such as ANSI* approved safety glasses or goggles or a face shield.
- Never lean over the battery when making a connection or disconnection.

Before you begin, you'll need...
- A set of jumper cables
- A vehicle with a good battery that is the same voltage as yours
- To know the difference between the negative and positive battery terminals and the negative and positive clamps of the jumper cables. Positive is indicated by a (+) sign, the words "POS" and the color red; negative is marked by a (-) sign, the words "NEG" and the color black. The colors may vary but are red (+) and black (-) in most instances.

Jumpstarting- Pull the cars next to each so they're not touching and turn off both ignitions.
- Connect the positive clamp of the jumper cable to the dead battery's positive terminal.
- Connect the other positive clamp of the cable to the positive terminal of the battery in the starting vehicle.
- Connect the negative clamp of the cable to the negative terminal of the battery in the starting vehicle.
- Connect the other negative clamp of the cable to the vehicle's engine block, or other metal surface of the car--away from the battery. This metal surface is exclusive of the carburetor or tubing on the car with the discharged battery. This serves as your ground or connection point.
- Make certain all cables are clear of fan blades, belts and other moving parts of both engines and that everyone is standing away from the vehicles. Start the car of the battery providing the jump start; then try to start the car with the dead battery.
- If the car starts, allow the engine to return to idle speed, then remove the cables in the reverse order that you put them on.
- Remove the negative clamp on the ground of the car that needed the jump
- Remove the negative clamp on the assisting vehicle
- Remove the positive clamp from the assisting vehicle
- Remove the positive clamp from the formerly stalled vehicle
- If the car doesn't start, wait a few moments and try again. If it still doesn't start, you probably need a new battery.

* ANSI – American National Standards Institute

Other basic safety tips for winter driving include:
𐂾 Allow extra time to arrive at your destination.
𐂾 Slow down and be alert for other vehicles around you.
𐂾 Allow extra space between you and other vehicles.
𐂾 Always wear your safety belt and ensure others in your vehicle are properly restrained.
𐂾 If you drink, do so responsibly and always hand the keys over to a designated driver. Even one drink can impair your driving.
𐂾 During inclement weather, make sure to let others know your route of travel, and expected arrival time.
𐂾 Cell phones are a great safety insurance against breakdowns and getting stranded.
𐂾 Stay alert and on longer trips ensure you take needed breaks.
𐂾 Watch for road signs, landmarks and construction zones.
𐂾 Never start a vehicle in a closed garage or idle your engine with the windows closed. Carbon monoxide, which is present in exhaust fumes, is almost impossible to detect and can be fatal.

Frost Bite
Exposed skin can freeze within one minute at wind-chill equivalent temperatures below -25 F. Frostbite affects the extremities, such as fingers and toes. If a body part has been frostbitten once, it is more susceptible to frostbite again, even in milder conditions. Redness and a burning sensation are indications frostbite will occur unless the extremity is warmed. Numbness is an indication that frostbite has already taken place. If frostbite is discovered, hold the affected part tightly against the warm skin or another part of the body; (for example place frozen fingers under arm). When thoroughly warmed, keep covered and make an effort to keep area from freezing again.

Hypothermia
Under conditions of prolonged exposure to cold, the body may begin to lose heat faster than it can produce it. A condition called hypothermia begins to develop. The symptoms become very apparent, and include:
uncontrollable shivering vague, slow, slurred speech memory lapses incoherence , immobile, fumbling hands, frequent stumbling, lurching gait
drowsiness, apparent exhaustion

Wind-Chill Equivalent Temperatures
The true effect of winter weather on your body can be deceiving. While the air temperature may not seem too cold, the wind may increase its effect. To find the wind chill, find the actual air temperature in the "Calm Air" column, then look for the corresponding value under the column closest to the current air speed. For example, if the actual air temperature is 20 degrees Fahrenheit, a wind speed of 30 mph makes the air feel like -18 degrees.

Visit my website http://www.roninsureme.com for more useful information and how to get a free home, auto and/or business insurance quote.

When should I review my home insurance policy?

It is always important to know what your home insurance policy covers. Here are four events that should trigger a review of your homeowner's policy.

1. When the homeowners policy comes up for renewal. While it is tempting to pay the renewal immediately, this is a perfect time to review your homeowners policy and contact your insurance agent with any pertinent questions. Some examples of these home insurance renewal questions include:

• Am I receiving any and all discounts available to me?


• Should I begin to comparison shop with other providers?


• Has my home insurance provider made any changes to my coverage?


• Does my homeowners policy include separate deductibles for certain risks?


• Can I raise my deductible to save money?


• Have I adequately insured all of my personal possessions?


• Do I need to increase coverage for liability or structure reasons?


• Should I comparison-shop for a cheaper rate?

2. When you make major purchases or alterations to the home. Building that deck? Got that big screen TV? Making new purchases or adding improvements to your house is usually a great time to look at your home insurance policy. A perfect example of major improvements includes adding or expanding a room, such as a kitchen or bathroom.
Additionally, if you or a member of your family has received an expensive gift, such as artwork, a computer or even an engagement ring, talk to your agent about either increasing the amount of insurance you have for your personal possessions or purchasing a floater/endorsement for these items.

3. When you've made your house safer. Installed a fire or burglary system in your home? You may qualify for a new discount. Other examples include upgrading your heating, plumbing or electrical systems.

4. When someone moves out, or in. Obviously, when a marriage or divorce occurs, your homeowners insurance is affected, as these people take their belongings with them. However, other circumstances may also affect your homeowners insurance, such as when post-college children return home. And you may need additional coverage if there is a sizable increase in the value of the belongings in your home, such as new jewelry or fine arts.

Feel free to contact me with any insurance questions you may have or if you would like a homeowner insurance quote at 248-390-6345 and visit my website at http://www.roninsureme.com/ .

Questions About Auto Insurance in MI

We know citizens of Michigan are doing their best to abide by the state law and carry the required amount of auto insurance. We also know they are trying to find ways to cut back on expenses and save money wherever possible. Perhaps the suggestions below can help the drivers of Michigan not only save money on their policies but move forward in their understanding of insurance and get closer to full coverage.

Can I Save Money On Required Liabilities?
State legislation has declared a minimum requirement of coverage that must be purchased by every driver on the road, which is personal protection insurance for $1 million, personal injury protection, residual bodily injury for $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident, and finally $10,000 in property damage liability. Combined, these mandatory coverage types will pay for the other party’s property damage, their medical bills, and your medical bills. There is no way to lower the amount that is required to be carried because it has been said as being mandatory by the state.

It should be noted the liability limits required by the state were mandated by law well over 30 years ago and have not kept up with the true cost of inflationary expenses especially medical insurance. In today's world I recommend that no driver carry less than $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident, and finally $100,000 in property damage liability. The ideal coverage for all drivers should be $500,000 per person and $500,000 per accident, and finally $500,000 in property damage liability, In addition, I recommend an optional umbrella liability policy that would provide additional liability coverage above your automobile insurance limits should you exhaust the limits on your automobile policy.

Most insurance company's encourage drivers to carry the minimal suggested liability limits of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident, and finally $100,000 in property damage liability. Those that carry less coverage may actually see a surcharge on their policy negating any savings from lowering their liability limits.

What Coverage Is Necessary For MI Drivers?
As mentioned earlier, all drivers who live in Michigan must purchase personal protection insurance, personal injury protection, residual bodily injury liability, and property damage liability. Any other coverage is extra and can be added on to the policy for a price.

What Coverage Is Available In Michigan?
Each insurer in Michigan offers different coverage options so it’s best to check with your current insurer or prospective insurers to see what is offered. As a general rule of thumb, most insurers offer coverage types that will give the policyholder and members the ability to expect the insurer to pay for their accident related medical bills and property damage. There are also other add-ons that will cover rental cars or help with paying for a rental car when your vehicle is in the shop because of an accident. Options regarding towing services are also available. Figure out what you coverage you need to properly protect your assets and policy members, know your budget, and decide what coverage you can afford.

Where To Find Cheap MI Coverage
The best place to find coverage for Michigan drivers at a low price is right here at roninsureme.com. My agency the Berkfield & Co/Waterford Insurance Agency have come together with auto insurance companies to match drivers with low prices.


Feel free to contact me with any insurance questions you may have or if you would like a homeowner insurance quote at 248-390-6345 and visit my website at http://www.roninsureme.com .

Finding Deals on Homeowners Insurance

Do you think your home insurance premiums are too high? Or are you a new homeowners, maybe under the stimulus package, and you need to find a policy to satisfy your lender? Since your home is probably your biggest asset, and since policies will represent part of the cost of that asset, it is essential to educate yourself about homeowner’s insurance.

Think about the things that a good policy must cover. It is obvious, I think, that the actual home will need to be protected. But also consider any outside structures. If a visitor to your home claims injury or damage, you will be happy to have liability insurance. You also have the contents of your home, like tv sets, computers, and jewelry, and those may be worth many thousands of dollars to replace. Finally, consider how you would find a place to live if your home was damaged and needed to be repaired or rebuilt.

We are concerned with finding the best homeowners insurance rate deals, but also with finding the best coverage. Please be patient so you can understand your policy when you do buy it. I would hate for anybody to save twenty dollars on premiums, only to find they did not buy good coverage.

House Coverage – This protection extends to your actual building. You will probably need to cover it for the cost of rebuilding, and not just the value of the home. There is a difference, and it is especially true for older homes. A $150,000 house that is 25 years old may cost a lot more than that to rebuild from scratch!

What is Outside the House? Most homes have other structures outside that can cost a lot to repair. Fences, landscaping, decks, etc. are some examples of this.

Liability – If a visitor to your home claims injury, you could be sued. Make sure your insurer will back you up!

Relocation – If you cannot stay in your home because it needs repairs, an insurer can help you out.

Personal Property – Do not neglect to cover your belongings. Just like the building, you probably want to cover them at the replacement cost, and not just the value. Your tv set may only be worth $100 at a second hand store, but may cost you $500 to replace!

I hope you understand the basics of normal home owners insurance policies. Now it is time to look for a good rate on that policy.

Insurance rates are local, but beyond that, different companies offer their own premium schedules, and their own discounts. One insurer may reduce their premium for customers who also cover their car with them, but they do not all do this. Another may cut 10% for installing a burglar alarm, while another may cut rates fifteen percent. It is important to find the best insurer for a person like you.

Feel free to contact me with any insurance questions you may have or if you would like a homeowner insurance quote at 248-390-6345 and visit my website at http://www.roninsureme.com .

Prepare Your Home For Winter

Preparing for winter is best done a few weeks before the season gets underway. Winter preparation checklist includes winter clothes, fireplace, hot chocolate, and one more thing – house repairs.


The cold season usually takes its toll on homes. Hence, it is wise to do some minor renovations ahead of time so as to enjoy a hassle-free winter.


To avoid unnecessary costs, follow the succeeding tips:

• 
  House should be kept warm during the winter season. Home temperature must not fall below 65 degrees as this would cause the pipes to freeze and eventually result to other problems. This can be achieved by adding weather stripping to windows or setting up storm windows. Also, all gaps must be closed.


• 
  Make sure that the heating system is functioning well. Before youstart using the fireplace, have your chimney cleaned by a professional.


• 
  Check whether the roof is intact. Loose shingles must be repaired. Gutters must be cleaned and overhanging tree limbs must be removed. Also, it will be extra helpful to put a screen at the top of the fireplace to be free from falling fragments.


• 
  Familiarize yourself with your pipes. As soon as they freeze, water must be turned off. Warming pipes with heating tape is necessary during particularly cold instances.


• 
  Immediately address small structural problems. Seek help from a professional.
  When away from home, turn off the water and drain the system with the help of a professional.


• 
  Have the house checked regularly so that small damages can be promptly addressed.

For a free quote on home insurance please feel free to call me at 248-390-6345 or visit my website http://www.roninsureme.com for more information.

Homeowner Insurance Buying Advice from Insurance Institute

You may already have applied several recommended ways to cut your homeowner insurance costs, but check the following tips from the Insurance Information Institute. You may find additional strategies to reduce your home insurance premiums or get more features to protect yourself from losses in case of disasters.

It is most probable also that you already have a home insurance from a certain company and it is up for renewal. If you have been with this insurance firm for many years, check if you can get a substantial discount for being a loyal customer. Just make sure that this insurance firm is financially stable by checking its financial condition at the web sites of rating firms such as Standard & Poor’s, your state insurance commission and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Compare also price ranges using online insurance quotes, consumer guides and the web sites of other insurance firms to see if your insurance firm is giving you a great price. But make sure that when you are comparing prices, you also consider features and services. A certain home insurance may be cheaper, but it has certain separate deductibles.

One of the ways to reduce your premium is to make your house more resistant to disasters. Ask your insurance firm what it is looking for when it is considering disaster prevention features. You may have to add storm shutters, replace or reinforce your roofing materials or modernize your plumbing systems to prevent water damage.

Another is to check if your firm considered your credit rating when it priced your insurance. It may have found something that was erroneously included in your credit report. A good credit report is also beneficial in other aspects of your life, so maintain your good credit record. Keep your credit card balances low and make your monthly payments on time.

You can also get at least 5 percent discount for improving your security and safety systems, such as installing a burglar alarm, smoke detector or deadbolt locks. There are other safety systems such as sophisticated sprinkler systems linked with monitoring stations, but these are expensive systems. They may get you added discounts but you may have to make big investments.

Before you buy a home, check the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange report for the house. This report shows you the claim history of the house and can help you check out the problems or disasters that the house has undergone.

Feel free to contact me with any insurance questions you may have or if you would like a homeowner insurance quote at 248-390-6345 and visit my website at http://www.roninsureme.com .

Berkfield & Co Ltd./Waterford Insurance Agency Garden Project

This past summer my agency the Berkfield & Co. LTD/Waterford Insurance Agency celebrated its 30 years in business and to recognize this milestone our agency decided to create a commuity Garden Project in the open lots next to our office.

We thought what better way to thank the community that supports us by giving back.

To learn more about the garden you may wish to visit our blog site at http:///wiacommunitygarden.blogspot.com/ .

Our goal for the Garden Project was to plan, grow and harvest and and donate 500lbs of organic vegetables to charity. The charity partner we chose was the Open Door Outreach Center in Waterford, MI . To learn more about this charity please visit http://opendooroutreachcenter.com/. At the end of the harvest season we have donated 850lbs of food!.

The Open Door Resource Center will be celebrating 30 years of Service in 2010 and to help them celebrate, the Berkfield & Co Ltd./Waterford Insurance Agency will be working to raise 30,000 lbs of fresh and non-perishable food by August of 2010. Stay tuned for news about this project and how you can help reach our goal.