GBW Insurance's Blog

In case the East Coast did not learn anything from 2011, here we are at the start of the traditional hurricane season.  We at GBW Insurance are busy going to seminars about hurricane preparedness and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  If you’re not ready, or would like some suggestions, head to our page of advice and connections (click here).

And the answer is… most of the time it takes 30 days to get Flood Insurance.  And insurance companies shut off new and addtitional business about 48 hours before a hurricane hits.  So neither the NFIP nor private companies are available just before a hurricane arrives.  Plan ahead.  We can help.  1-800-548-2329

We’ll break away from our focus on commercial insurance to relay these tips on home summer safety.

Protect your family and your home this summer by taking these simple precautions during your favorite activities.

Swimming:
• Stay with your kids while they’re at a pool, even if they can swim.
• Enclose your pool with a fence that’s at least 4 feet high with a self-locking gate. The lock should be out of kids’ reach.
• At a minimum, keep safety equipment like a life preserver and shepherds hook (a long pole with a hook on the end) ) nearby for emergencies.

Grilling:
• Only use grills outdoors. Carbon monoxide builds up quickly in enclosed spaces like garages.
• Keep grills away from other outdoor activities to prevent burns.
• Check your gas grill for leaks. Your local propane gas supplier can suggest a leak-detection solution.
• Don’t pour starter fluid in a gas grill or an already-lit charcoal grill.

Landscaping:
• Wear sturdy shoes and fitted clothing while mowing the lawn to keep your feet and skin protected, and turn off your mower before removing a stuck object.
• Use only GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets outdoors. Test them monthly by following these instructions.
• Replace power cords that are frayed or damaged.
• Unless power tools are marked “submersible,” don’t get them wet.
• Be aware of pets and children—and keep a safe distance—while using lawn equipment