Newsletter (page 17)

Are you traveling this holiday season? Don't leave home without having your car prepared for all kinds of conditions, including an

Emergency Car Kit

An emergency car kit is crucial for breakdowns and unusual weather conditions.

• It is always good to keep essential supplies in your car in case you get stranded for a few hours or even a few days.  A car’s trunk will only hold a certain amount of equipment.
• Because of the limited space in the trunk, you will want to use the glove compartment (so the smaller items will not get lost under the larger equipment). Put items under the seat or use a box, tool kit or lock box to store your emergency equipment in the trunk.
• As the seasons change, make sure you prepare your car for the change.  Depending on your circumstances and location, your level of preparation may vary.  You may need snow tires, new windshield wipers and fluid, anti-freeze, heater/air conditioner service, recommended scheduled tune-ups, etc.
• Many types of disasters can strike while you are in your car – snow or ice storms in winter, floods in spring, and hurricanes, tornados or lightning storms in summer and fall. Your survival will depend on how well you have prepared ahead.  For everyone it should mean preparing your car and family for whatever could happen.

Although it can seem like a daunting task to put a survival kit together, it can actually be a very easy and interesting project. The greatest challenge can be organizing your kit with the least amount of layout of cash.

• Start by looking around your home for those items you already have. Add a few items each week if you need to buy things.
• Food and water are the most important items, followed by a blanket or sleeping bag for keeping warm.
• If you are not interested in organizing your own kit, you can purchase one already made and just add any extra items you want included in your pack.

What should I keep in my auto emergency kit?

First, you want to make sure you have the basic essentials such as water (the utmost important thing to put in your kit because your body will dehydrate without water within 3 days which leads to organ failure and death), food and warmth.

After these basics are included, then you can add other necessities such as an emergency light, first aid items, tools and other accessories.

Several tips you will want to consider:

• Remove batteries when not in use to prevent accidental burnout; replace yearly.   
• Consider carrying a cell phone; you can purchase a prepaid phone that can be used for emergency use only.   
• Carry a rope to tie yourself to the car when leaving vehicle during a storm.
• Always try to maintain at least one-half tank of gas.
• Food is difficult to keep in your car because it is exposed to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold; it is best to store high calorie food bars because they can be exposed to extreme temperatures, won’t leave you thirsty thus reducing the demand on emergency water and expand your stomach so you feel full.
• A 3 day survival supply of emergency food is the minimum survival recommendation and you should maintain a week’s supply of emergency food in your vehicle for proper emergency preparedness.
• Include a multi-purpose knife such as a Swiss Army knife because is provides many different tools for you to work with in a time of need.  A Samurai survival tool provides an axe, hammer, and pry tool all-in-one.
• Before attempting to use any of the other items in your kit during an emergency, get your flares out and place them in front of and behind your vehicle. Put them far enough away to warn drivers of your presence and give them time to slow down to avoid hitting you.
• Remember to always let someone know what time you left and what time you expect to arrive at your destination.
• If you have no way of calling for help, tie a bright red piece of cloth on your antenna. This is generally recognized as a call for assistance.

Car Emergency Preparedness Checklist

_____   Large Tool Box to keep items in
_____   Case of bottled water or a gallon of water
_____   Food, non-perishable high-energy, (high calorie food bars, dried fruit, granola bars, peanut  butter, crackers and canned goods)
_____   Manual can opener and basic eating utensils (metal cup for water)
_____   Extra clothes and boots/shoes (for winter:  coat, hat, gloves and scarf)
_____   Couple Large plastic garbage bags to help insulate feet
_____   Wool blanket or Sleeping bag
_____   6 to 20 hour hand and feet warm packs
_____   Emergency Poncho or rain gear
_____   Flashlight and extra batteries
_____   Candles, water-proof matches, and a deep can to melt snow or hold candles
_____   Light Sticks
_____   Six – 15-minute road flares or set of reflective warning triangles
_____   Help sign (or a strip of Red cloth to tie on antenna to signal for help)
_____   Gas can, empty 2 gallon size
_____   Short rubber hose for siphoning
_____   Battery Jumper Cables, 12-foot length and Battery charger
_____   Spare Tire and Jack
_____   Four-way lug wrench
_____   Aerosol flat tire fixer (such as fix-a-flat)
_____   Tire repair kit and pump
_____   Sack of sand or salt (cat liter works well also) for tire traction
_____   Fire extinguisher (5-pound, A-B-C type)
_____   Tow rope or chains
_____   Ice scraper
_____   Antifreeze / Windshield washer fluid
_____   Two quarts of motor oil
_____   Extra fuses
_____   Basic Tool kit:  (Include:  Tire pressure gauge, wrench-and-socket set, flat- head and Phillips screwdrivers, hose clamps, pliers, vise grips, adjustable wrench, hammer or axe and small shovel) or a Samurai survival tool (provides an axe, hammer, and pry tool all-in-one)
_____   Swiss Army knife
_____   Roll of Duct tape
_____   Roll of Reflective tape (to help with visibility)
_____   First aid kit with essential medications and manual (include burn cream and tweezers)
_____   One-way valve for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
_____   Medications and extra pair of glasses
_____   Battery-powered AM/FM radio with extra batteries
_____   Extra Set of keys
_____   Cell phone and charger
_____   Whistle and Compass
_____   Rags and/or roll of paper towels
_____   Automobile ownership papers
_____   List of emergency contact numbers (Including an emergency tow service)
_____   Road Maps
_____   Pencil / pen and paper and disposable camera (to record an accident and thoughts)
_____   Dollar bills and Quarters, dimes and nickels
_____   Toilet paper and other personal care supplies (such as toothpaste, toothbrush, hand    sanitizer and sanitary napkins and/or tampons)
_____   Book, puzzles or other non-battery item to help pass time

 

 

 

 

 

“Ho ho ho ho, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!” As this holiday season approaches, many of us are preparing for big celebrations and parties. Food, snacks, wine, beverages… there is no better time of the year to fill yourself to your heart’s desire!
However, if you are a health-conscious type of person, then this article will reveal some tips for staying healthy this holiday season (while everyone else around you gains 5 pounds!).

1. Eat Snacks Moderately – Let’s face it, snacks are abundant during the holidays seasons (as if they aren’t already throughout the year). If you take a seat within an arm’s reach of the snack table, you’re going to have a tough time keeping yourself from unconsciously grabbing handfuls of party mix, candies, and the like and picking at them all day.

2. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise! – There is no better thing to do during this festive season than to exercise! If the weather permits it, go out and take a quick walk around the house or block. If your celebration is taking place in a colder climate, you’ll be more inspired to quicken your pace and burn a few extra calories in the process. If the weather is bad, do 10-20 squats, stretches, or other brief exercise each time you go to the restroom.

3. Eat Healthy Foods – Take an extra scoop of vegetables and fruit when filling your plate, and by the time you finish, you won’t have room for the other foods which are higher in calories and more likely to cause you to gain weight. Also, avoid those fatty and fried foods (they taste good, but you know they aren’t healthy!)

4. Drink A Lot of Water Throughout The Day – Water helps your body stay fit. Drink a fair amount of water or other unsweetened beverage before each meal, as well as during and between them. The liquid in your stomach will help trick your mind into not feeling as hungry, which reduces the tendency to gorge yourself on potentially fattening foods.

5. Eat in Smaller Portions – Instead of eating platefuls of food, try eating smaller portions throughout the day. No doubt, everything at the table looks good, and it’s all you can do to keep from filling your plate 2-3 times so that you can sample everything.
Keeping healthy during this holiday season is simply making sure you follow healthy habits just like anytime of the year. However, don’t fret it if you end up gaining a few pounds during the holidays. After all, the holiday season is only one of the few times of the year where you can truly enjoy yourself!

All of us at Dave Reed Insurance would like to wish you and yours a very happy and safe holiday season.
 

Do the holidays have you jumping through hoops? Don’t let CRIME complicate matters! Dave Reed Insurance, the Peace of Mind People, wants to share these ideas from the University of Oklahoma Police Notebook. Exercise safety this holiday.

Personal Safety and Security While Traveling    

• When you travel, plan ahead – know where you are going and how to get there.

•  Check weather forecast before leaving.
• Notify a local family member of your travel plans and provide contact information.
• Travel and conduct your business during daylight hours if possible.
•  If you have access to a cellular telephone, carry one – do not use it while driving, as this is now unlawful in many states. Know the emergency cell codes for the area you’re in. Florida = *FHP (star 347 – cellphone only) or 911 or 800-525-5555.
• While driving, keep doors locked and widows rolled up at all times. Maintain at least a half tank of fuel, and check vehicle before leaving home, especially spare tire and all fluid levels.
• Consider keeping spare fuses and a “breakdown kit” in your vehicle at all times. Include a thermal blanket, a help sign or flares/reflectors, a flashlight, water and duct tape at a minimum.
• Include a basic first aid kit, portable fire extinguisher & how to access your spare tire and jack.
• Devote your full time and attention to driving. Develop the habit of scanning for situational awareness. Use your mirrors, look ahead and anticipate events that will affect traffic flow.
• If you have a breakdown, pull as far onto the shoulder as possible and turn your emergency flashers on.  Use your cell phone to call for help, raise your hood and remain in your locked vehicle until police or tow operator are on scene. Speak to any strangers who stop through a partially rolled down window; ask them to contact law enforcement officials.
• If involved in a property-damage collision in an unfamiliar or potentially unsafe location, do not open or exit your vehicle. If you have a cellular telephone, summon law enforcement.
•  Criminals sometimes deliberately cause minor car accidents in order to rob the occupants or steal the vehicle. If you are involved in an accident that seems suspicious, remain in your vehicle, and contact police. Do not get out to inspect for damage or to exchange information.
• If the driver of another vehicle tries to force you off the road, do not stop. Slow to a safe speed, and proceed to a safe location. Try to obtain the license plate number and a description of the vehicle and its driver and any occupants. Report the occurrence to police as soon as possible.
•  Keep your car in gear while stopped at traffic signals or signs. If approached in a threatening manner, honk the horn to attract attention and drive away. It is always a good idea to leave enough space between you and the vehicle ahead in order to drive around it if necessary.
•  If signaled to stop by any vehicle other than a clearly marked law enforcement unit, acknowledge the signal, and wave the driver to follow you to a safe location. Drive within the speed limit, take the most direct route and call 911 on your cellular telephone. Tell the dispatcher you are being followed by an unmarked vehicle attempting to stop you, and ask them to send a marked vehicle to your location.

 

Personal Safety and Security While Shopping

•  When parking, roll up the windows, lock the doors, take the keys and ensure your valuables are concealed before reaching your destination.
  Plan your shopping to only load your vehicle when you are ready to drive to another destination.   
• When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door and enter the vehicle as quickly as possible. Be aware of others in the area around you, under or inside your vehicle. Return to the store for assistance if you spot suspicious activity near your vehicle. When safely inside, call 911.    
•  Shop with a friend or relative. There is safety in numbers. Keep a close eye on your children while shopping.
• While out and about, present an alert appearance. Be aware of your surroundings; scan the area from time to time.
•  If you must leave items in your vehicle while out and about be sure to secure them out of sight. This includes docking stations and connector cables. Leave no trace that there is anything valuable in your car.
• Park in busy, well-lighted areas.
   
• Lock all vehicle doors and set any alarm or anti-theft device before you close your door.
• To aid in recovery, mark your valuables with a personal identifier inscribed or engraved on all valuables. Use your driver’s license number prefaced by your driver’s license state initials. With that marking any police officer can trace your valuables back to you.
• A Final Word: Do not confront anyone. Your life is precious; property can be replaced! Be Alert, Be Aware, and be prepared to BE A GOOD WITNESS. If signaled to stop by any vehicle other than a clearly marked law enforcement unit, acknowledge the signal, and wave the driver to follow you to a safe location. Drive within the speed limit, take the most direct route and call 911 on your cellular telephone. Tell the dispatcher you are being followed by an unmarked vehicle attempting to stop you, and ask them to send a marked vehicle to your location.

Dave Reed Insurance, the Peace of Mind People, wish you a happy and safe holiday season. If you have any questions or need advice feel free to call our 2170 Creighton Rd. office at 850-494-2264 or our 1091 N. Navy Blvd. office at 850 453-8555.

   
Have you taken time to give your home a winter-prep review? If you get to these projects before the weather gets nasty, you will enjoy the work more and help extend the life of your home’s components and make your property safer as well. Here are a few suggestions.

1. Heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems are first on the list. If you’re using a fireplace or wood burning stove, inspect the firebox and flue system to ensure they’re clean of soot, creosote and free of cracks or mortar voids that could be a fire hazard. If you have a gas or electric furnace, give it a run through before the temperature changes to catch any problems before you need to turn on the heat. Change the air filters to provide maximum efficiency and improve indoor air quality. Clean the whole house humidifier and replace the evaporator pad. Get a programmable thermostat and set it to click on every time the daytime temperature drops below your desired room temperature. By arranging your thermostat to come on only when you are home, you’ll save money on your heating bill. Arrange furniture so that nothing is within three feet of heat ducts, space heaters or radiators. They block heat and can also be a fire hazard. Change batteries on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Remove window air conditioners or cover them with insulated liners to prevent drafts. Make sure ceiling fans are moving in a clockwise direction to push warm air down. To prevent costly, damaging leaks to the bricks on your chimney. seal it every five years with a waterproofer. Check exposed ductwork in attic, basement and crawl spaces. Use a sealant to plug any leaks. Check all the weather stripping around windows and doors for drafts. Replace it as needed. Caulk any gaps. If you are not using the fireplace, block it off so warm air can’t escape. Cardboard and foam sealant will work. Use a pretty fireplace screen in front of it and no one will see. Do you have an alternative heating system should the electricity fail? Service and test generator.
2. Gutter, roof and drains should be examined next. Look for missing, damaged or warped shingles and replace before they begin to leak. Check the flashing around chimney, walls, vent pipes and skylights for deterioration. Seal joints where water could leak in with roofing cement and a caulking gun. Also check for moss and algae growth on your roof. This growth keeps the roof area below them permanently wet and causes rot. If you see any, make a mixture of 5 parts water, 1 part bleach and heaping tablespoon of trisodium phosphate. Spray it on the moss to kill it. Check the gutters and downspout fasteners and secure if they’re loose. Gutter covers help keep out debris. Clean your gutters if you don’t have them. Make sure downspouts extend away from your foundation to prevent flooding and water damage. Cover all vents and openings to prevent insects, birds, rodents or other vermin from getting inside to make a warm nest for the winter.
3. Outdoor plumbing parts are susceptible to freezing during cold weather. Burst pipes can cause some of the most expensive repairs in your home. Insulate any exposed water or drain piping in any uninsulated space (like crawl space, attic, or outside walls) with electrical heating tape or foam insulation. Turn off the water supply to any exterior faucets and drain them. Adding an insulated cover can help, too. Disconnect and drain all garden hoses. If you are shutting down a seasonal property, be sure to turn off the water supply and drain the plumbing system.
4. Outdoor Furnishings should be put away. Remove cushions, wash with dishwashing soap and allow to thoroughly dry, and store all inside. Use a car wash solution mixed with warm water to scrub outdoor furniture with a soft brush. Rinse with water and let air-dry. Rub off rust with a scouring pad. Hardwood furniture can stay outside, but soft woods, light weight aluminum and plastic or wicker need to be stored indoors.  Do the same for any outside toys, like boats, RV, jet skis, motorcycles and lawnmowers. Do not drain them. Fill the tank if it is metal and add a gas stabilizer. Run them to get stabilizer into carburetors. Cover anything that’s staying outdoors with a breathable cover made of Gore-Tex-like fabric.
5. Daylight hours are shorter during winter months. Be sure to check the bulbs on your outdoor lights to make sure they are working. Using CFL or LED flood lights will provide light and save money on your energy bill. ENERGY STAR makes these lights to withstand snow and rain. Lighting units that have daylight shut-off and motion sensors are also available.

At Dave Reed Insurance, The Peace of Mind People, we love providing tips on protecting your property. As property and casualty insurance providers, we want you to be aware of simple things you do to avoid costly repairs. Several major home insurers have relaxed their requirements to allow coverage of homes with aluminum wiring, homes built with open foundations, including wooden support pilings, Stucco exteriors and polyethylene plumbing. If you have had problems getting homeowners insurance in the past, call us to discuss your individual situation. We can help.
We have two convenient locations to serve you. 2170 Creighton Road (850-494-2264) and 1091 N. Navy Blvd. (850 453-8555).


 

An ounce of prevention is certainly better than a pound of cure. Here are seven tips on how to live a long and healthy life. In addition, the same life style that helps you to avoid illness also helps you to lose weight.   Here are a few ideas on how to enhance your life and possibly live longer.

1. Get Enough Exercise

In the past people had to use their physical bodies in the course of their normal work. But today someone may get up, go to work in a car, then sit down, get up to go home in the car and when arriving at home, sit down again for the rest of the day. In such a life there is no physical labor. This physical inactivity is one of the main reasons for a host of diseases. Sport, running. walking and other things must be added to our life if our normal work does not require us to exert ourselves physically.

2. Go to sleep when you feel sleepy

This may sound simple, but many people stay up late even when their body is telling them that it is time to sleep. Yoga doctors also say that it is better to sleep in the night and be active during the day. However, people such as students will take coffee and stimulants to study late into the night. Others develop the habit of remaining active at night and sleeping during the day. While we can do this, it eventually takes a toll on health. Alternative health doctors say that this kind of unnatural living is one of the contributing factors in the causation of cancer and other diseases


3. Fast on a Regular, Systematic Basis

If you would ask any person to work 365 days per year without any rest, they would complain and say that they must have some rest or else they will break down. But we have never bothered to ask or to think about our digestive organs which we compel to work day after day without a rest. They cannot protest the way a person would to his boss, but they do give us signals that they cannot work non-stop. When we ignore those signals and still compel them to work, those organs break down. That is why periodic fasting is necessary.

4. Wash with cool water before going to bed

As mentioned above, proper sleep is essential for the maintenance of health. If you wash your important motor and sensory organs (hands, arms, eyes, legs, mouth, genitals) before sleep using cool water, this will relax you and prepare you for deep sleep.

5. Perform meditation on a regular basis

Your body is linked to your mind. Many of the diseases of this era are psychosomatic. Stress and anxiety take their toll on our physical health. Meditation is a mental exercise which, among other things, allows you to detach yourself from the worries of life. Learn a simple technique and do it regularly.

All of us at Dave Reed Insurance wish you a long and healthy life, and would like to thank you for your continued business!