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Wichert Insurance Blog

All You Ever Wanted to Know About Insurance

Why Flood Insurance Is a Must for America’s Homeowners

If you think your home isn’t at risk for damage from flooding, think again. According to FEMA, “Since 1996, flooding has affected 99% of U.S. counties, bringing significant damage and financial costs to homeowners and...


Tips for Towing a Boat Trailer to Reduce Accidents and Insurance Claims

Owning a boat can make weekends and vacations fun and memorable. Follow these tips to help ensure that when you’re towing your boat you’re being as safe as possible to lower the risk of accidents and unwanted insurance...


How to Choose the Right Contractor for Home Improvement Projects and Avoid Liability Claims

If you’re planning a home improvement project, you probably have many contractors available to choose from. How do you pick the right one that will get the job done safely and without liability issues? Follow these tips....


How to Adjust Your Insurance Portfolio for Life’s Major Milestones

Insurance is one of those things in life that we tend to think about only when it’s needed. However, if you only revisit your insurance plan in a moment of crisis or claim, you risk being underinsured or worse yet, not...


Safeguarding Your Towing Company Website: Preventing Spoofing and Fake Listings

In the age where your clients start and end their decisions on the internet, towing companies rely heavily on their online presence to connect with customers. However, recent incidents, like the one reported in Iowa (“...


Don’t Overlook These Risks to Your Home This Winter

The wild winter season can wreak havoc on your home... even without a fierce winter storm. All it takes is dropping temps and unlucky circumstances to turn a cozy night by the fire into your worst nightmare. Here are...


Top Home Improvement Projects That Can Increase Your Home Value

When you tackle home improvement projects, it’s wise to prioritize those that add the most to your property’s value, especially if you might put your home on the market in the next few years. Here are the renovations...


Your 2024 Insurance Tune-Up

You’ve set a goal to lose 20 pounds. You plan to exercise 3 days a week. You’re going to eat healthier, sleep better, and - ah, who knows. It'll be any one of the other resolutions we Americans make each year to be...


Preparing Your Teen Driver for Different Road Conditions and Situations

If you have a young driver in your home, you may be fearful about them driving on their own, especially in bad weather or road construction. Here are some tips to share with them to improve safety by adapting their...


Why Insurance Rates Are Going Up (and What You Can Do about Them)

No one gets excited about an increase in their insurance rates, but understanding why these increases are occurring, especially if you haven’t had a claim, can at least soften the blow a bit. Why Do Premiums Change in...


Two Vital Checklists To Prepare For Winter Storms

Days before Christmas, Winter Storm Elliot caused about $5.4 billion of insured losses in 42 states. Unfortunately, storms of this magnitude are not one-off weather events anymore. Winter weather has gotten increasingly...


Save Money With These Smart Home Devices That Make Your Home Safer

Homeowners today have never had more ways to save money through technology. Here are five smart home devices that will help you cut down on your bills and improve your home’s safety. Better safety can mean fewer...


GenZ & Young Millennials: 5 Questions You’re Probably Asking About Life Insurance

In the light of day, no one wants to think about the unimaginable happening. But those are the exact thoughts that keep us up at night: What will happen to my family if something happens to me? How will they survive?...


Renting vs. Owning a Home: Protect Your Property No Matter Which You Prefer

If you’re on the fence about renting or owning a home, here’s a helpful look at the upsides of each option. Remember to get the right insurance when you make your choice, so your property is fully protected. The...


I Got My First Apartment— Do I Need Renter’s Insurance?

Congratulations on unlocking the door to your very first place! As you step into this new chapter of your life, the thrill of independence is likely intertwining with the responsibilities that come with it. While you'...


Defensive Driving Techniques to Avoid Accidents and Insurance Claims

If you want to reduce your risk of traffic accidents and the insurance claims that accompany them - which could cause your premium to go up - you need to drive defensively. Here are some driving tips to help you avoid...


Do I Need AAA or Other Travel Insurance?

It seems like every time you almost get to the final purchase screen for your upcoming trip online, someone is there to offer you add-on insurance protection. They sure make it sound critical, don’t they? “Are you sure...


What to Look for When Buying a House to Avoid Unnecessary Insurance Claims

If you’re house hunting, you’re probably looking at many elements like the number of bedrooms or how updated the kitchen is. Don’t forget to check for these things too, which may help avoid home insurance claims should...


What to Do When You’ve Had a Fender Bender

This certainly isn’t how you planned to spend your day. No one wants to find themselves in any kind of car accident. When a fender bender happens, our nervous systems kick into overdrive. It’s best to know in advance...


Benefits of Safe Driving Apps

Many insurance carriers today offer smartphone apps that track telematics to monitor driving. Here’s how they work and how these apps may help you lower your auto insurance premium, along with a few other advantages. ...


What Insurance Commercials Aren’t Advertising

The geckos and emus are spending billions of dollars in ad campaigns to sell you their insurance they can bundle, box up, and bill you for in fifteen minutes or less. These campaigns are compelling and entertaining, but...


4 Water-Saving Tips for Your Garden

Water has been in short supply in many areas of the United States lately. And even if it’s bountiful where you live, you may be paying more for water than you’d like. Here are some tips for using less water and saving...


New Distracted Driving Law and How it Can Impact Your Towing Business

Attention all towing companies working in Ohio. As of April 4, 2023, a new law has come into effect that affects the way you operate your business. The Ohio General Assembly has passed House Bill 95, which prohibits...


The Importance of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Your auto insurance is one of the most important elements of your personal insurance portfolio. But some people purchase only the minimum required liability coverage, not realizing they may be leaving themselves open to...


Avoid Rate Hikes: Don’t Drive Distracted

The State of Ohio’s new primary offense-distracted driving-is intended to cut down on the number of lives lost due to distracted drivers. In 2020, distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives across the country. That’s nine...


Keep Your Home Safe While on Vacation

Whether you’re just getting away for a long weekend or spending a few weeks out of the house, it’s important to ensure your home is safe while you’re gone. Follow these tips to help prevent break-ins, fires, and water...


Don't "Tow it Alone". Get Help Finding Good Employees in Today's Job Market.

As a towing company in today’s difficult labor market, finding new employees with the right skills and experience can be your biggest challenge. OhioMeansJobs is a job matching and workforce development system that...


Insuring Your Precious Jewelry. What You Need to Know.

Did your special someone surprise you with a gift of jewelry this Valentine's Day? How would feel if that precious piece of jewelry went missing? Jewelry is often a valuable possession that we hold close to our hearts....


How Does Inflation Affect Your Insurance Rates?

We all know that inflation is on the rise, affecting everything from gas to groceries. But did you know that inflation can also affect your home insurance rates? How much inflation affects your premium depends on...


Who Needs Life Insurance and How Much Do You Need?

It’s an unfortunate fact that life expectancy in the US has dropped recently. This has led many people to examine whether or not they should have a life insurance policy and, if so, how much coverage they should have....


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Updates

The FMCSA announced some updates and changes that will impact your operations and compliance. - Safety Measurement System (SMS) would now include an electronic logging device (ELD) violations. If your ELD has the...


Family Emergency Preparedness Checklist

It seems like every day on the news that we hear stories about a hurricane, flood, or wildfire creating massive damage in the U.S. and putting people out of their homes. Have you thought about how your family would...


Do I Spring for (the Really Expensive) Car Rental Insurance?

You're already paying to borrow a car-so why do they ask you to buy additional insurance when you rent that car? The supplemental liability insurance offered is not just an unnecessary upsell to get more of your money,...


What to Check Before Buying a Used Car

With the new car market impacted by shipping delays, many people are choosing to buy used cars lately. And some people only purchase a used vehicle because it saves them money and lets the first owner figure out if it’s...


Should I Notify My Insurance Company About a New Puppy?

Having a new puppy join your household can change your life. The snuggles and kisses make getting up in the middle of the night for potty breaks worth it, but in the whirlwind of change, it’s easy to forget some...


How to Choose the Right Smart Security Camera

A security camera can help protect your property against intruders or provide evidence in the event of a break-in. But with all the technology available today, it can be tough to figure out which smart security camera...


Getting the Personal Touch: Why Work with Your Local Insurance Agency

We know just how convenient it can be to open a new search window, type “insurance” in the search bar, and click on the highest listing for an insurance giant (or emu or gecko) in your area. So, why do we continue to...


Things to Know When Shopping for Home and Auto Insurance

If you’re looking around for home or auto insurance, you may find the process confusing, especially if you’re new to buying coverage and aren’t familiar with the terminology. Here are five essential things you should...


Insurance Needs for Your Updated Outdoor Space

You pulled the trigger and finally updated your outdoor space. Now, you and your family are enjoying the fruits of this investment. But what about insurance? Valuable hardscape. Outdoor furniture. An outdoor kitchen....


Grill Safely With These Outdoor Cooking Tips

Grilling food is a fun pastime, and it’s ideal on those summer days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. But every year, there are accidents and home fires because people don’t grill safely. Follow these tips to...


Simple Household Pest Control Methods

No one likes the thought of having pests in their home, whether they be rodents, cockroaches, ants, or any other common household pests. If pest activity is common in your area, it is important to take steps to prevent...


The Importance of a Home Inventory

Some of us are really good at preparing for the worst-case scenarios. For this population, keeping an up-to-date home inventory is obvious. Of course, you should know what you have in your house in case of a fire or...


Landscape Maintenance Tips for Your Yard

You've worked hard to create a beautiful garden for your yard, but there is more to yard maintenance than simply mowing the lawn and watering the plants. There are plenty of other tasks you'll need to complete in order...


Avoiding Water Issues in Your Home

Water damage is one of the worst problems that homeowners can run into. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to repair, depending on the extent of the damage, but it can also create the potential for mold and mildew...


Can I Change My Personal Insurance Company?

Did you just hang up on your insurance company because they left you on hold again, and that’s the last time you’re going to stay on the line and listen to their automated teller tell you all service providers are busy?...


April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize...


Should I Bundle My Personal Insurance with My Business Insurance?

If you started your business from a room in your basement, you probably have taken a lot of care and time to make sure that your business assets are separate from your personal assets. As you’ve added new assets to your...


Commonly Overlooked Spring Cleaning Tasks

Spring is a common time for people to take on all of the cleaning tasks that they put off during the winter. With the weather getting warmer, it's the perfect time to tackle jobs both inside and outside your home. While...


What Is the Best Way to Buy Personal Insurance in My 30s and What Should I Get?

Chances are you are a long way from the choices and needs you had when you first left your parents’ house, which means your insurance needs have evolved along the way. As different needs arise-renting a place, buying a...


Four Money Moves You Should Make When the Kids Move Out

Ah, that Empty Nest feeling! For the first time in ages, you’re cooking for two, shopping for two, and paying for two. Now is the time to live it up, right? Go on, celebrate-you’ve successfully launched your brood into...


Upgrading Your Windows - How to Choose What's Best for Your House

You may not give the windows on your home much thought, but they can actually make a big difference not just in your comfort level, but also in the value of your home. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from,...


Electric Vehicle/Hybrid - What You Need to Know Before You Tow

Love them or hate them, Electric Vehicles (EV) and Hybrids are only growing in numbers. In 2021, 1.2M EV and Hybrid vehicles were sold in the US, which amounted to roughly 4% of total vehicles sold. While it is still a...


Tips for Saving Money on Heating and Cooling Your Home

If you're like most people, you like to keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. However, running your heater or air conditioner constantly uses a lot of energy, and your electric and gas bills...


OSHA 300A Forms

It is that time of year again when OSHA requires employers to submit copies of their OSHA 300A form by April 30th. A couple of items of note for this reminder: This requirement doesn’t apply to employers with 10 or...


How to Evaluate and Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

Today's modern appliances are much more energy-efficient than their predecessors, and some are even better than the rest. When shopping for appliances, you'll likely be overwhelmed by choice, so it is important to know...


2022 and Inflation

As we head into the New Year, I wanted to pass along some timely information that you may find helpful. My video on inflation is the first in a series that I will be sending out periodically to address common hot button...


2022 Resolution- Get Financially Fit with Wichert Financial Services

In the blink of an eye, another year has come to an end. Ringing in a new year gives us the sense of renewed hope and the opportunity to re-evaluate various aspects of our lives. Many people make resolutions to improve...


How to Choose Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for any home, so you should ensure that your house is equipped with them. You should have detectors in the main living areas on each floor, including in every bedroom...


How to Make a Fire Safety Plan

No one likes to think about the possibility of a fire in their home, but this is one situation where it definitely pays to be prepared. This is especially true if you have children or pets in your home. Read on to learn...


The LIVING Benefits of Life Insurance

Did you know that life insurance can provide more than just the death benefit? Life insurance also has living benefits! A living benefit is one that allows the policy holder to utilize policy cash values and riders...


Catalytic Converter Theft Continues to Grow

In our March 22 blog post, we highlighted the growing problem of catalytic converter theft, and we outlined steps you could take to prevent it from happening to you. Unfortunately, this problem continues to grow. The...


How to Decide If Solar Panels Are Right for Your Home

Solar panels can provide clean electricity for your home, helping you to save money on energy costs while also doing your part to help the environment. However, not all homes are suited to solar energy. Here's what you...


How Independent Agents Are Different from Captive Agents

When it comes to buying insurance, you have two primary options available to you: independent agents like us, and captive agents. While both can provide insurance services, these two types of insurance agents are not...


Benefits of Using a Dash Cam

More and more people these days are choosing to add dash cams to their vehicles, and for good reason. These small cameras can be highly useful to you, especially in the event that you get a traffic ticket or are...


Swimming Safety: 10 Tips for Summer

Summer is here and people are flocking to the water - whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and...


Why You May Need Personal Offense Coverage

In today’s digital world, slander and libel lawsuits are more common than you may think. Comments made in haste or anger on social media can have lasting and far-reaching effects on a person’s reputation or character,...


Inexpensive Fixes for a Safer Home

Home improvement: It’s a never-ending process for many people, and for those of us who aren’t necessarily handy, it can be a hassle, too. But there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks and other improvements you can...


Why a basic Homeowners policy isn’t always enough

Sometimes a basic homeowners policy just isn’t enough. So as your career advances and your income increases, it’s important to keep your insurance protection up to date. This helps you avoid expensive gaps in coverage...


Catalytic Converter Theft Hurts Everyone

In a recent article, the New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/09/climate/catalytic-converter-theft.html, outlined how Catalytic converters have become the number one targeted part of theft amongst vehicles...


10 Tips to Help Prevent Identity Theft

Shopping online. Visiting the doctor. Buying gas. In nearly all of the things we do from day to day, there’s the risk of identity theft. You could unknowingly give your information to a fraudster thinking you’re...


The Pandemic: The Impetus for Assessing Your Financial Security

The pandemic has caused many people to assess their financial security. With daily mortality statistics flashing across our screens, we are reminded of the fragility of our lives. We are mortal and are one unfortunate...


Own a home? Here are two policy options you should know about

If you have a homeowners policy, you probably expect it to cover all the costs of rebuilding your house in case it’s damaged or destroyed by a covered hazard. But are you certain you have enough coverage? Read about two...


Life Insurance: A Gift of Love

February is celebrated as the month of love. Heart-shaped boxes of candy fill store shelves and bouquets of bright red roses are plentiful. People purchase these gifts to show their loved ones how much they care. There...


OSHA Form 300A Posting Requirements

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers subject to its recordkeeping requirements to post copies of their OSHA Form 300A between February 1 and April 30 of each year. Click HERE for...


Porch Safety: Should You Leave the Lights On?

It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this...


Is it time for a Life Insurance review?

As we ring in the New Year, many of us will re-evaluate our personal and financial goals. There is a renewed energy to improve our health and to address obligations that have been put off for too long! While New Year’s...


Don’t Delay — Start Thinking About Winterizing Your RV Today

Unless you’re headed to a warmer climate for the winter - or you live in one already - fall is the time to start preparing your RV for winter (as long as you’re done using it for a while, that is). And just because you...


CAB, SAFER, and Their Impact Upon Your Insurance Rates

Over the course of this year, we have discussed how rates for the towing industry have been increasing because the insurance companies have been losing money insuring commercial auto for the last 5+ years. As a result,...


10 Things to do to Prepare Your Home for Fall

Fall is a wonderful time - if your home is ready for it. So enjoy the last few weeks of warmer weather, but do a little preventative maintenance while you’re at it. You’ll fix small problems before they become big, and...


Managing Out-Of-Service Inspection Violations

It is important to know how to review and manage your inspection violations as they occur. At times, these violations can be insightful for necessary changes within your organization. However, there are instances that...


It’s Back-to-School Time — Is Your House Ready?

We’re not quite sure where summer went, but if you haven’t noticed, the new school year is upon us. And as you get your kids organized and ready, consider doing the same thing for something else - your home. It won’t...


Cabin Rental Coverage

There is so much more to protect than "just a cabin". - At Wichert Insurance, we have multiple companies willing to provide you with options to cover you from A to Z. Building or CabinContentsLiabilityRental...


Tips for Power Tool Safety

What would you do without power tools? Well, you’d probably take on fewer home-improvement projects — and probably have a lot more calluses on your hands. Thankfully, you don’t have to do without. But you do have to use...


Tow Companies Face Rising Insurance Premiums

As outlined last week, the insurance companies continue to lose money insuring commercial vehicles. For every $1 of premium, the insurers are paying out $1.09 in claims. As a result, your commercial auto rates and...


How to Update your Home — Without Spending Thousands

It doesn’t take a massive remodel, or a big budget, to make your house feel a little more like home to you. Inside or out, small improvements can make a significant difference - and whether you’re handy or not, you can...


How to Update your Home — Without Spending Thousands

It doesn’t take a massive remodel, or a big budget, to make your house feel a little more like home to you. Inside or out, small improvements can make a significant difference - and whether you’re handy or not, you can...


Keeping Your Commercial Auto Rates Down

It has been a challenging year, and despite many insurance companies giving “premium holidays” due to the lack of use, the insurance companies continue to lose money. It has been a tough few years for commercial auto...


Three Month Waiver for Pre-Employment Testing Requirements on Commercial Drivers

Just a few weeks ago, there were changes from the FMCSA due to COVID-19. The FMCSA has granted a three-month waiver from certain pre-employment testing requirements applicable to employers of drivers subject to 49 CFR...


New Employer Rules and Regulations Resulting From COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted our communities and businesses. As we reopen our companies, it is crucial to know and understand the new rules and regulations affecting your organization as a result of...


Latest information on the USDA Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP)

Last Thursday the USDA released information regarding the issuance of the first Coronavirus Food Assistance Program payments. This federal program assists farmers and ranchers whose operations have been directly...


I Just Bought a New Car. What Insurance Coverage Do I Need?

Congratulations! After weeks of research, comparing makes and models, and taking test drives you finally bought that brand-new car you wanted. But before you take that well-deserved road trip, check one more item off...


OSHA Interim Enforcement Response Plan for COVID -19

We find ourselves in unprecedented times and where safety is imperative for everyone within their scope of work and the changes in the work environment. OSHA has released an interim enforcement plan to provide...


Keep Your Pets Safe in a Disaster

A safe home, a regular routine, a soft bed – the things that bring you comfort bring your pet comfort, too. It’s so important to give some advance thought to how you’d handle your pet responsibilities during and after a...


Move Over Law

In Ohio the State law requires drivers approaching a stationary emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights, including road service vehicles, traveling in the same direction, to vacate the lane closest to if safe and...


Updates from the FMCSA Regarding COVID-19

Updates from the FMCSA regarding COVID-19 and National Emergency Declarations The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has made Emergency Declarations to maintain the motor carrier industry and those who have a...


Coronavirus Emergency Loans - CARES Act

As business owners, the Corona pandemic is presenting our businesses with unique and unprecedented challenges. As we navigate this crisis and the recent CARES Act, we came across the this document from the U.S. Chamber...


Coronavirus in the towing industry.

We live in an interesting and challenging time. As many businesses have been forced to close or significantly reduce their operations, the tow industry continues to roll on. The key to any towing operation are the...


Will my property and casualty insurance cover losses arising from the COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?

The short and to the point answer is, "It truly depends."Many factors affect whether a loss has coverage under an insurance program, including the type of loss, the type of coverage, and the terms and conditions of the...


Your Insurance coverage and the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) with a historical perspective.

It has always been the goal of Wichert Insurance to provide Risk Management and Insurance services that go beyond the sale and service of insurance policies. Businesses and individuals face all types of risks that must...


What to Consider When Choosing Auto Insurance

Carrying a minimum amount of auto insurance is required by state laws, so you can’t legally drive without it. Yet while the minimum amount keeps your premiums lower, it can also put you at great risk if you have an...


5 Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips

Every year, unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning (not linked to fires) sends 20,000 people to the emergency room and causes more than 4,000 hospitalizations. And, you might consider them the fortunate ones. CO...


Insurance Beyond Your First Home

As you move, your insurance needs often change. However, there is rarely information to help you know if your current coverage is properly protecting you. Not everything in this article may apply to you, but look at...


What Do You Know About OSHA's General Duty Clause?

Recently highlighted in the December 2019 issue of Safety + Health Magazine from the NSC, the topic of the OSHA General Duty Clause was discussed. https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/19258-oshas-general-...


What to do before, during and when you are ready to move

There is a special excitement (and a little nervousness) that comes from moving. Buying a new home should be a wonderful thing. An overall fresh start! However, you may have some concerns. Is it the right timing? Will...


Just one problem of focusing on price….

The purpose of homeowner’s insurance is to protect you financially, give you peace of mind, and provide you with the means to repair or replace your home. Unfortunately for some, the insurance they have secured may not...


When Roadside Assistance Isn’t Enough

If you’ve ever been stuck on the side of the highway with an RV issue, you know what a life saver roadside assistance can be. Whether you need a battery charged, a tire changed, or a tow you’re often back on the road in...


How to Protect Your Classic Car

The collector car market evolves with each generation. While the Silent Generation started collecting cars, it was Baby Boomers who really got it rolling. They fell in love with the Chevrolet Bel Air, the Ford Mustang,...


New CDL Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse

Another significant update to employers that have Commercial Licensed Drivers across the country, the FMCSA has announced the release and registration for the New CDL Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. This online database...


What Car Drivers Need to Know about Motorcycles

Fall is here, and there are still plenty of motorcycles on the road. And the key word here is “see.” People driving cars and trucks often fail to notice the motorcyclists around them, partly because they’re not...


How to Ride Your Motorcycle Safely in a Group

Group riding is a favorite activity among many motorcycle riders. Whether you’re part of a riding club, a social event, a charity ride, or out for a leisurely cruise with friends, group riding can be a rewarding way to...


Do You Qualify for Preferred Tow Truck Rates?

In our last Tow blog, we talked about why insurance rates for the towing industry were going up. If you didn't get a chance to read it, you can click Here To Read It. As discussed in our blog, rates are going up for...


Five Tips to (Finally) Get your Garage Organized

There’s perhaps no organizing task more daunting than the garage-it’s often the dumping ground for the stuff that has no other place in the house, or the things you don’t use but just can’t bring yourself to toss. How...


Your Farm Insurance Policy Has You Covered, or Does It?

How to know what coverage you have and if it is appropriate. - You pay premiums and have an insurance policy for your farm so you are covered in the event of a loss, right? You have coverage on your home, your buildings,...


Boating Season is Here – Are You Up to Speed on Safety?

With spring in full bloom and summer just on the horizon, prime boating season is upon us. And you might notice more people on the water than ever, because sales of recreational boats have been growing at a steady clip...


Why Tow Truck Insurance Costs Are Going Up

As the owner of a towing company, you have likely noticed your company's insurance rates increasing over the past few years. I'm sure insurance has never been your favorite part of the business, but the rising costs add...


Three Ways to Lower Your Carbon Footprint

April 22 marked the 49th annual Earth Day, when more than 1 billion people in nearly 200 countries were expected to take part in what the Earth Day Network calls “the largest civic-focused day of action in the world.”...


Spring Cleaning Tips

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and cleaning and organization around the house are very popular this time of year. If you’re ready to tackle the monumental spring cleaning chore, read on for some helpful...


Home Security Technology: Keeping you ahead of the burglars

Back in the early days of home security “systems,” around the end of World War I, it was common for homeowners to hire “door shakers”-night watchmen who would literally walk around and check doors to make sure they were...


Thumb Drives Are Evil!

Thumb Drives. Helpful or Hazard? Read Karl Demuth’s Blog about these seemingly innocuous devices.


February Building Blocks Newsletter

In the February issue of Building Blocks, Eric Pempus, FAIA, Esq., NCARB, ORSA, reviews the do's and don'ts of Sealing and Stamping Design Professional Documents in Ohio.


Looking at a new piece of jewelry? Make sure to look at your insurance, too

Whether it’s a gift from someone special or a gift to yourself, a new piece of jewelry can bring some sparkle to your life. However, many people who find themselves victimized by burglars—or a fire or some other...


Is your home as efficient as it could be? An energy audit can tell you

Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters. All are common issues in homes across the country, and they’re not just annoying-they also cost you money in decreased energy efficiency and higher bills. The U.S....


Building Blocks - December 2018

Don't end up on Santa's naughty list. Read the December issue of DesignPro's Building Blocks Newsletter where Eric Prempus, FAIA, ESQ., NCARB, ORSA, discusses Gift Giving Dilemmas.


Keep Pets Happy and Safe on Vacation

You’re not just imagining it—a lot of people are traveling with their pets these days. According to a TripAdvisor survey of more than 1,000 travelers, 53% of those responding said they take their pets on vacation, and...


What Does History of Sears Tell Us About Our Future?

Last week you may have noticed that Sears filed bankruptcy with little more than a whisper. Knowing history is important for so many reasons. Those reasons are not to live in the past, but remind us of decisions,...


Five Common (and Potentially Costly) Homeowner Mistakes

Owning a home is usually a great experience. But it can also be a hassle, especially when unexpected issues pop up-whether you have a minor breakdown or a major catastrophe, it’s almost certainly going to require time...


Five Ways to Protect Your Personal Electronic Data

Online data breaches are just an unfortunate fact of life now-as the New York Times put it, you might as well assume that your personal information has been taken, because cyberattacks happen all the time. That’s why we...


Let's Keep Our Lawns and Ourselves Safe

For many of our neighbors, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard – often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly. Each year about 400,000 people are treated for...


Non-Profit News (Emergency Operations Plan)

Is your organization prepared for an active shooter situation? Our September issue of Non-Profit News covers this topic.


6 Tips for Getting to Work on Two Wheels

Did you know that hundreds of thousands of people in the United States commute to work by bicycle, according to the U.S. Census Bureau? That’s a lot of cars off the road each day, a lot of gasoline saved and a ton of...


Essential Safety Tips for Nighttime Boating

If you own a boat (or better yet, as the joke goes, you know someone with a boat), you’ve probably thought about spending some evenings on the water - especially in the summertime. It’s a great thought, of course. But,...


Summer Driving Tips

Summer’s almost here. The sun will come out of hiding, and people will, too. As crowds swell at the beach, in parks, and even on roadways, it all makes for some challenging driving conditions. More people are out and...


Protecting Your Home: Understanding Your Home Insurance Policy

As a homeowner, one of the most important aspects of your home isn’t something you use daily. And it isn’t something flashy you show off to friends. It’s your homeowners insurance policy, and it protects you in more...


Do I Need to Tell My Insurance Company If My Dog Bites Someone?

You probably don’t think your dog would ever bite someone, let alone cause a serious injury. But dog bites are more common than you might realize-4.5 million occur every year in the U.S., according to the Centers for...


Insuring Jewelry: How to Know if Your Coverage is Enough

A ring from a loved one. A bracelet handed down through generations. A watch or necklace marking a special occasion. Every reason you treasure a piece of fine jewelry is a reason it should be insured. However, calling...


Do You Need Umbrella Insurance?

One of the most certain things in life is uncertainty. Your dog could bite the neighbor’s kid. Your teen driver could hit a cyclist. A guest could fall down your stairs. A rainy morning commute on worn-out tires could...


Tips for Buying a Safe Car

You’ve heard all the talk about driverless cars - but unfortunately, we’re still years away from living in a world where you just tell your car where to go, kick back and relax with a book (or, more likely, your phone)....


Why Today’s Homes Burn Faster

From building materials to furnishings, many of the things in your home likely aren’t as flame-resistant as those from yesteryear. A fire in a modern home is a “perfect storm,” according to safety consulting and...


How to Lower Your Auto Insurance Bill

It’s easy to lower your insurance costs - especially if you have a great driving record, or don’t mind having higher deductibles. Who doesn’t want to pay less for car insurance? Billions of dollars are spent on ad...


Easy to Forget Cleaning Projects

As a busy homeowner, it's easy to fall into the trap of pushing off tasks that maintain the long-term value of your home in favor of more pressing problems. That’s OK, to a point, as certain house-cleaning projects...


Heavy Rain? Be on the Lookout for Heavy Damage

Your home protects you from the elements, but heavy rains can weaken that protection. With a little maintenance and a lot of vigilance, it’s not hard to stay safe and dry. Spring rainstorms are a fact of life in many...


Want a Safer Home? Consider these Inexpensive Fixes

Home improvement: It’s a never-ending process for many people, and for those of us who aren’t necessarily handy, it can be a hassle, too. But there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks and other improvements you can...


Help Your Dog Love Apartment Living

Apartment living can have many advantages: low maintenance, close to work and entertainment, and ease of changing residence. But, if you’re a dog owner, apartment living can present some difficulties. You probably won’t...


Love Bites – Get Umbrella Coverage

In today’s economy, everyone is pinching pennies. So why worry about umbrella coverage? Shouldn’t a home and auto policy leave you adequately covered?Unfortunately, we live in a world of lawsuits. Large damages can be...


Teen Driving Safety

Talking to Your Teen About Safe Driving When teens begin to drive, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Safety Council, the sobering statistics start to pile up:Car...


Car Shopping With Safety in Mind

You’ve heard all the talk about driverless cars. Yet we’re still years away from living in a world where you can just tell your car where to go and then kick back and relax with a book or your phone. Even still,...


7 Driving Habits That Are Bad for Your Car

No matter how safe you are behind the wheel, you’ve probably done things like: Shift into drive while the car is still rolling backward. Ride the brakes on steep hills. Roll into the gas station on empty. Guilty? If so,...


Burglary Prevention: Should You Leave the Lights On?

It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this...


Which Home Alarms Do You Need?

Technology has made home alarms of all kinds — from security to smoke, radon to radiation — more accessible than ever. Many of them can be configured to work together, and some even alert you to trouble through your...


Device Insurance: Cover Your Personal Electronics With the Policy You Already Have

It seems everyone these days has a smartphone. Or a smart TV, a tablet, or an ebook reader. Or all of the above – and more. When you add it all up, you may find you have thousands and thousands of dollars tied up in...


How to Deal With Road Rage

Have you ever noticed that, with roadway anger, it’s always the other guy’s fault? And, it very well could be. The thing is, you can’t control how other people drive. But, you can control how you respond to situations...


Safety Tips for Your Summer Swims

When the sun is out and the weather’s warm, people flock to the water — whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for...


Safety Tips for Summer Thrill Seekers

The family summer vacation is a time-honored tradition, and it often includes a trip to one of our country’s incredible amusement parks. But, while the rides and other attractions at these parks are typically safe, it...


What Should Go in Your Home Safe (or Safe-Deposit Box)?

Spring has arrived, which means it’s time to clean the cobwebs out of the corners, organize the closets and so forth. While you’re at it, don’t forget to revisit the important documents and other items you have in your...


The Type of Fire Extinguisher Every Home Should Have

A fire is a fire, and a fire extinguisher is a fire extinguisher, right? Well, not quite. There are actually different types of fires and different types of extinguishers that respond best to each one. So, which is...


Navigate Rainy Roadways With Care

It’s just rain — how much impact can it really have on your driving? The answer: a lot. You’re likely to experience lower visibility, reduced traction and increased difficulty in handling your car both during and after...


Identity Protection Tips for Tax Season

What’s the most important number for you this tax season? The amount of your refund? The amount you owe? The number of hours spent poring over all the other numbers? All of those are pretty important, but none of them...


What to Do After a Car Accident in Winter

Freezing temperatures, gusts of wind, patches of ice – winter can be a horrible time to be on the road, especially if you’re on vacation and aren’t used to driving in winter conditions. And, it’s an even worse time to...


How to Avoid Animal-Vehicle Collisions

About 2 million times every year, animals and cars collide on U.S. roadways — often causing serious and even fatal injuries to drivers and passengers, along with about $1 billion in damage, according to the U.S....


Thrifty Security: Burglar-Proof Your Home for the Holidays

It's not unusual, when you set out on that holiday trip, to look back at the house a little nervously. Sure, you remembered to lock the doors, but just how secure are things? What might happen while you're away?One way...


Safe, Secure Shopping: Tips for Black Friday

It's become almost as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and football: Black Friday, the morning-after (or in some cases evening-after) shopping spree. It's the biggest shopping day of the year, an event in its own...


Your Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Fall brings more than just changing leaves and shorter days. In many areas, it also comes with a shift in weather conditions that can have a serious impact on your home. And, don’t forget, winter is right around the...


4 Ways to Help All Children Have a Great School Year

It's back-to-school time, and, if you have school-age children, your household is likely bustling with activity and filling up with books and backpacks. There are other households and school districts in your community,...


Keep Cool While Keeping Your Energy Costs Down

Two thirds of households in America have air conditioners, according to the U.S. Department of Energy — and they spend a total of $11 billion each year running them. Our guess is that most of those households (which may...


Spring Into Home Maintenance Mode in Ohio

Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and, as the weather gets warmer here in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, and the days grow longer, there's a positive energy in the air. Many people decide it's the perfect time for reorganizing...