Did you know that nearly 82% of American adults plan to travel this year? With so many people hitting the road, it's more important than ever to prioritize safety, especially since over 30% of all fatal crashes occur between June and August. To help you and your loved ones stay safe on the roads this summer, here are some essential tips to keep in mind: 1. Plan Ahead Before you start your journey, plan your route and check the weather conditions. Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition by scheduling a maintenance check-up to inspect tires, brakes, fluids, and lights. 2. Buckle Up Seat belts save lives. Data shows they reduce front-seat passenger deaths by 45%. Make sure all passengers, including children, are properly restrained in seat belts or appropriate car seats. 3. Avoid Fatigue Long hours of driving can lead to fatigue, impairing your ability to react quickly. Take regular breaks, switch drivers, and get adequate rest before starting your trip. 4. Stay Alert Pay attention to road signs, traffic signals, and other drivers. Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the music while driving. 5. Watch for Pedestrians and Bicyclists With more people outdoors during the summer, be vigilant for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially in urban areas and near parks. 6. Be Prepared for Emergencies Carry a roadside emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. Program emergency numbers into your phone and keep a physical map in case of GPS failure. 7. Avoid Impaired Driving Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Designate a sober driver or use alternative transportation if you plan to consume alcohol. By following these safety tips and remaining vigilant on the roads, we can all contribute to reducing the number of traffic accidents and fatalities during the summer months. Stay safe and enjoy your travels!

Tickborne illnesses are a growing concern, especially if you love spending time outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, gardening, or simply lounging in your backyard, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from these tiny but dangerous pests. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to safeguard yourself from ticks in seven easy steps. 1. Be Aware of Ticks Ticks are typically found in wooded or brushy areas. Blacklegged ticks (also known as deer ticks) prefer wooded or brushy areas, while American dog ticks (wood ticks) are more common in grassy, open habitats and woods. Knowing the types of ticks and their habitats can help you stay vigilant. 2. Use Tick Repellent Choosing the right tick repellent is crucial. Opt for an EPA-registered product to ensure safety and effectiveness against tick bites. Products containing permethrin are highly recommended for use on clothing and gear, especially if you spend a lot of time in wooded areas. Remember, permethrin should not be applied to the skin. Standard DEET-based products are another effective option. Use products with no more than 30% DEET for adults and children, but avoid using DEET on infants under two months old. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for application. 3. Check for Ticks Regularly Perform thorough tick checks at least once a day, especially after spending time outdoors. Ticks need to be attached for 1-2 days to transmit Lyme disease, so frequent checks can significantly reduce your risk. Bathing or showering after coming indoors can help wash off ticks that are not yet attached. Pay close attention to hard-to-see areas like behind your knees, the groin area, and armpits. If you find a tick, remove it immediately using tweezers to grasp the tick by its head, close to the skin, and pull outward slowly and steadily. Clean the area with soap and water afterwards. 4. Protect Your Pets Pets can also carry ticks into your home, so it’s important to use tick repellents for them as well. Consult your veterinarian for safe and effective options. Check your pets daily for ticks and remove any found immediately. A Lyme disease vaccine is available for dogs but doesn’t protect against other tickborne diseases. Regular tick checks and repellent use are still necessary. 5. Check Clothing and Gear Ticks can latch onto your clothing and gear. Before bringing items indoors, check them thoroughly for ticks. Tumble dry clothes and gear on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill any ticks. If items are damp or need washing first, additional dryer time may be required. 6. Practice Basic Landscaping If you live in an area with ticks, some simple landscaping techniques can help reduce tick populations around your home. Keep your lawn and trails mowed short, remove leaf litter, and clear brush around your house and yard edges. Placing children's play sets in sunny, dry areas and creating a barrier (such as a three-foot wide border of wood chips) between your lawn and the woods can also help keep ticks at bay. 7. Stay Informed and Prepared Educate yourself about the presence of ticks in your area and stay updated on the latest prevention techniques. Utilize resources like the EPA’s website to find the best tick repellents for your needs. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy the outdoors while minimizing the risk of tickborne illnesses. Taking these simple yet effective steps can significantly reduce your risk of tickborne diseases. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and enjoy the great outdoors!

Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades, and, of course, fireworks. While these vibrant displays can bring joy and excitement, they also pose significant risks. The National Safety Council advises everyone to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals, as they are both spectacular and safe. Here at Insurance by the Woods, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable summer. Here’s a guide on how to handle fireworks safely if you choose to use them at home. Why Firework Safety Matters Every year, thousands of people are injured by fireworks badly enough to require medical treatment, with many of these injuries affecting children and young adults. Fireworks are not only a risk to personal safety but also a fire hazard, starting an average of 19,000 fires annually. Therefore, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries. Fireworks Safety Tips If consumer fireworks are legal to buy in your area and you choose to use them, follow these essential safety tips: Adult Supervision: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older children should use them only under close adult supervision. Sober Use: Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Protective Gear: Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear. Safe Handling: Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands and never light them indoors. Always use them away from people, houses, and flammable materials. Proper Lighting Techniques: Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting. Never ignite devices in a container and do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Disposal of Fireworks: Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding. Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. Avoid Illegal Fireworks: Never use illegal fireworks. Stick to legal, consumer-grade fireworks and always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Sparklers: Not as Safe as They Seem Sparklers are often seen as a safer option for children, but they can be very dangerous. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees—hot enough to melt some metals. They can quickly ignite clothing and cause severe burns if dropped. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries, with young children under 5 years old being particularly vulnerable. Consider using safer alternatives such as glow sticks, confetti poppers, or colored streamers to keep the festive spirit alive without the risks associated with sparklers. Enjoy Public Displays For the safest experience, consider enjoying fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals. These events are typically organized with extensive safety measures in place, allowing you to enjoy the show without the risk. Fireworks can be a thrilling part of summer celebrations, but they require careful handling to ensure everyone’s safety. By following these safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and injuries. Remember, the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals. Have a happy and safe summer from all of us at Insurance by the Woods!

At Insurance by the Woods, we understand that car accidents can be overwhelming, especially when children are involved. Being prepared and knowing what steps to take can make a significant difference in such stressful situations. Here are some essential best practices to follow in the event of an accident: Stay Calm and Reassure Children First and foremost, it’s vital to stay calm. Children look to adults for cues on how to react in emergencies. Ensure they are safe and comforted, and if possible, move to a secure location off the road to avoid further danger. Avoid Admitting Fault Even if you think you might be at fault, do not admit it at the scene. It's important to limit your conversation about the accident to the police and your attorney. This helps prevent any premature assignment of blame that could complicate insurance claims and legal proceedings. Call the Police Always call 911, even for minor accidents. A police report is crucial for documenting the incident, which is especially important when driving a partner's vehicle. This official record can be essential for insurance claims and any legal issues that may arise. Gather Comprehensive Information Collect as much information as you can at the scene. This includes the driver's license, insurance policy details, and contact information of all parties involved. Take photos of everything—vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. These records can serve as vital evidence in any future disputes. Never Refuse Medical Attention Accept medical attention offered at the scene, particularly for children who may not clearly express their pain or discomfort. Injuries can be masked by adrenaline and might not be immediately apparent. A thorough medical check-up ensures that any underlying injuries are promptly addressed. We hope you never find yourself in a situation like this, but knowing these best practices can give you peace of mind. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Insurance by the Woods. We are here to help you navigate these challenging moments with confidence.

As part of Wildfire Awareness Month, we at Insurance by the Woods want to discuss the increasing threat of wildfires and how you can safeguard your properties. Recent data highlights a concerning trend: the frequency and destruction of wildfires are escalating. In fact, last year witnessed a staggering 55,571 wildfires, underscoring a clear pattern linked to more severe weather conditions. With wildfires becoming more unpredictable and destructive, taking proactive steps to protect your home and surroundings is more important than ever. Here’s how you can minimize risks and enhance safety: 1. Create Defensible Space : Establish at least a 30-foot safety zone around your home. This area should be free of flammable vegetation and materials that can easily ignite. A well-maintained buffer zone can significantly slow down or even halt the spread of fire to your home. Learn more about creating a defensible space here. 2. Keep Your Gutters Clean : It’s crucial to regularly clean out leaves, debris, and other materials from your gutters. These can easily catch fire from flying embers during a wildfire. 3. Remove Dead Vegetation and Limbs : Make it a routine to clear away dead trees, shrubs, and vegetation from your property. Also, trim any tree branches that hang over your house or are close to the ground to prevent fire from climbing. 4. Install Fire Sprinklers : If feasible, consider installing an external sprinkler system to dampen your home’s surroundings during a wildfire. Internal sprinklers can also provide an added layer of protection for your home's interior. 5. Stay Informed : Always stay up to date with local news and weather reports. Use resources like Airnow.gov to check your specific area for fires or poor air quality alerts. At Insurance by the Woods, your safety is our priority. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones remain secure from the threat of wildfires. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly increase the resilience of your home against wildfires. Stay safe and informed!

April showers bring May flowers, but did you know that April is also National Gardening Month? It's a special time for green thumbs and outdoor enthusiasts alike to celebrate the beauty of nature and the joy of planting. At Insurance by the Woods, while we're all about keeping you and your home safe, we also love the idea of getting your hands a little dirty in the garden. So, in the spirit of both safety and fun, we've put together some vital gardening guidelines to help you make the most of this blooming season. Critter Caution The anticipation of what's grown is thrilling, but before you dive into the underbrush or reach into overgrown areas, let's talk about critter caution. Use a tool to rustle the plants before reaching in. This simple action can send snakes, spiders, or other hidden creatures scurrying away, significantly reducing the risk of an unwanted encounter. It's a quick step that can save you a lot of trouble. Know Your Greens: Plant Identification Ever encountered a plant in your garden and wondered if it was friend or foe? With so many species, it's essential to know what's growing in your backyard. There are apps available that make identifying unknown plants a breeze. Familiarize yourself with your local vegetation, especially those pesky plants that are harmful or poisonous, like poison ivy or oak. It's better to be safe and informed than sorry! Sunscreen on Cloudy Days One common misconception is that cloudy days mean no sun damage. Wrong! UV rays can sneak through the cloud cover, so slather on that broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Protecting your skin against both UVA and UVB rays is crucial, whether the sun decides to play peek-a-boo or not. Hydration Reminder Getting lost in the world of gardening is easy, and forgetting to hydrate is even easier. Whether it's setting alarms on your phone or having a water bottle by your side, make sure to drink plenty of water, especially as the days get warmer. Staying hydrated is key to enjoying your gardening adventure from start to finish. Gardening Ergonomics Your health is as important as your garden's. Using ergonomically designed tools can make a world of difference, reducing strain on your body. Remember, when lifting heavy objects, the power is in your legs, not your back. Bend those knees and keep your back straight to avoid any injuries. Allergy Alert For those with allergies, gardening might seem like a challenge. But don't let that stop you! Wearing a protective mask can help you avoid inhaling allergens, and keeping allergy medication nearby is a smart move. Precaution is better than reaction. Tech Safety Did you know that lawn mower accidents lead to more than 80,000 ER visits annually? That's why getting familiar with the safety features of your gardening equipment is non-negotiable. Always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and ear protection, to ensure your gardening session doesn't end with a trip to the hospital. Check for Ticks After spending time in the garden, do a tick check on yourself, your children, and your pets. Ticks are not only a nuisance but can also carry diseases. Prompt removal is crucial, so keep an eye out for these tiny trespassers. Emergency Kit Essentials Finally, keep a basic first aid kit nearby. Whether you're in the garden or exploring nature trails, having antiseptic wipes, bandages, tweezers, and a small ice pack can come in handy for any minor accidents. As we celebrate National Gardening Month, let's remember that safety and fun can go hand in hand. At Insurance by the Woods, we're not just about policies and protection; we're about supporting the hobbies that make your home a happier place. So, grab your gardening gloves, and let's make this April one for the books. Happy gardening, everyone!

At Insurance by the Woods, we've borne witness to the devastating effects distracted driving can have not only on individuals but on families as a whole. With April marking a significant time for us to reinforce the importance of safe driving practices, we're sharing a message of awareness and vigilance. The act of driving demands full attention and focus. Yet, in today's fast-paced world, the temptation to multitask behind the wheel is stronger than ever. This is particularly true for young drivers, who are often more connected to their digital lives. However, the statistics surrounding distracted driving are alarming and serve as a stark reminder of the need to prioritize driving without distractions. The Harrowing Reality Consider these statistics: Annual Losses: Each year, approximately 3,000 lives are tragically lost due to distracted driving incidents. Fatal Distractions: Distracted driving is responsible for about 8% of all fatal car accidents. Youthful Vulnerability: Drivers aged 25 to 34 are notably more susceptible to accidents caused by distracted driving. Time on Phones: On average, drivers spend around 1 minute and 38 seconds on their phones for every hour of driving. Legislative Action: The gravity of this issue is underscored by the fact that almost all states have enacted laws against texting and driving, with 27 states imposing bans on the use of handheld cell phones while driving. This information isn't just numbers on a page; it represents lives affected, families changed, and futures altered. As parents, it's crucial to educate our young drivers about the risks of distracted driving. It's about more than just obeying the law; it's about ensuring the safety and well-being of our loved ones and everyone else on the road. Here are some practical steps you can take to promote safe driving habits: Lead by Example: Demonstrate responsible driving behaviors. Remember, your actions speak louder than your words. Open Dialogue: Have regular conversations with your young driver about the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of focusing on the road. Set Clear Rules: Establish family rules regarding cell phone use while driving, including penalties for breaking them. Leverage Technology: Utilize apps that disable texting and calling while driving or that monitor driving habits for feedback. Awareness is the first step towards change. we encourage you to share this information with friends and family. A simple conversation about the dangers of distracted driving can have a profound impact. Together, we can work towards making our roads safer for everyone. At Insurance by the Woods, we're committed to not only providing the protection you need but also to helping inform and educate our community about vital safety issues like this. For more resources or to discuss how we can support you and your young driver, please don't hesitate to reach out. Let's make this April a turning point in our collective journey towards safer driving practices. Remember, when it comes to distracted driving, even a moment's distraction can have lifelong consequences. Drive safe, stay aware, and protect what matters most.

A common question we receive from our clients and prospective customers is, “Why has my rate gone up?” Your insurance rate may adjust due to personal factors like changes in driving activity or address, but another factor is an overall trend of increased claims that insurance companies have experienced in recent years. One of these claims is for the theft of a motor vehicle, and I would like to take some time to review these trends with you by using federal crime statistics available from the FBI at both a national and state level. The statistics tracked by the FBI are based on information received from participating law enforcement agencies. The most recent year that they have data available for is 2022, but the FBI has data going back to 1985 for vehicle thefts. The rate that they provide is related to the number of incidents per 100,000 people. For this post, I want to focus on the numbers that are available for the years 2012 through 2022. This information is available to the public online at CDE (cjis.gov) .

Insurance by the Woods presents a comprehensive guide on regular home maintenance for property owners. This blog post focuses on client education, offering valuable tips to maintain and enhance the value and safety of their property. The Importance of Regular Maintenance Regular home maintenance is crucial for preserving the value of your property and preventing costly repairs down the line. It also ensures a safe and comfortable living environment. Key Maintenance Tips Check and Clean Gutters: Prevent water damage by keeping gutters clean and functional. Inspect the Roof: Regularly inspect your roof for damages or leaks to avoid costly repairs. Maintain Heating and Cooling Systems: Regular servicing of your HVAC system ensures efficiency and longevity. Check for Water Leaks: Early detection of leaks can prevent structural damage and mold growth. Landscaping: Proper landscaping can prevent foundation problems and enhance curb appeal. Seasonal Maintenance Checklist Adapt your maintenance routine to the changing seasons. Winterize your home to protect against cold weather damage and prepare your property for the different needs of each season. The Role of Insurance in Home Maintenance While regular maintenance is key to preventing problems, having the right insurance coverage is crucial for protection against unforeseen damages. Insurancebythewoods.com provides guidance on selecting the right insurance policies for your home. Regular home maintenance is an essential aspect of property ownership. By following these tips and staying vigilant about the condition of your home, you can protect your investment and ensure a safe living environment. Insurancebythewoods.com is dedicated to educating clients on these important practices and providing the insurance solutions needed to safeguard their homes.