When the power goes out and the cell towers go down, do you have a plan? Do your kids and your ex know what that plan is?
Since disaster doesn’t just strike on alternate weekends, it’s important that you take into account both households when you’re a divorced parent. In honor of September, National Preparedness Month, we’ve compiled a list of everything you need to develop a customized plan in the event of a disaster.
Set aside past feelings and connect with your ex.
You fought over who got the widescreen TV; how are you possibly going to agree on where to go and what to do in a crisis? It’s time to set aside your differences and put your children, and safety, first. You will need to communicate during a disaster, and reaching out to prepare for one is a logical first step. Navigate your situation however it is most effective and set up that important first meeting or call to discuss the plan.
Consider your blended/mixed family’s specific needs.
The ages of your children will determine how much assistance they will need, and how much responsibility they may bear. If family members have medical needs, disabilities, or even special dietary restrictions, that has to be taken into account. Pets also need to be accommodated. List each member of your family—human and animal—and any specific needs they may have.
Determine the responsible party.
Children who are in school or daycare will need to be picked up in the event of a disaster. Pets may need to be secured or transported. Designate a responsible party to pick up children and one who will manage pets. It doesn’t have to be you or your ex, but it’s best to choose a trusted individual known to your family. Make sure that the individual is on the approved pick-up list at school or daycare, and has signed up for alerts. Also, make sure that your child knows who is allowed to pick him/her up.
Create an emergency communications plan.
The power may go out; the cell towers may be down. You may not have access to important information during a disaster. That’s why it’s important to create an In Case of Emergency (ICE) card.
List contact information for each member of both families, caregivers, and any other individuals involved in the disaster plan. This includes work phone, home phone, and cell phone numbers.
Choose an out-of-state contact to call in the event that your state’s phones and resources are down. That person can act as a main point of contact if you can’t reach each other.
Starting at about age 5, children can learn a phone number. Teach your child one parent’s cell phone number. Try it as a song to the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”
Make sure your older children know your cell phone numbers, and don’t just press “mom” or “dad” on their phones.
If cell phone service is down, advise your children to follow the guidance of trusted adults such as teachers, school administrators, and caregivers. Reassure them that you will be with them as soon as possible.
Consider a prepaid phone card for use in an emergency.
Choose an emergency meeting place.
Depending upon the emergency, your home may not be the safest place to take shelter. If that is the case, you will want to choose a place in your neighborhood to meet. The local park, the school, the library, or your place of worship are all familiar and trusted options. If you are able to meet at home, make that the first choice—but be sure to determine whose home it is.
If you have to leave suddenly, there’s little time to pack. Having a grab-and-go bag or an emergency kit helps make sure you have everything you need. Pack a bag for every member of your family, including your pets. Include supplies for 3 days: a change of clothes, food, water, medications, hand sanitizer, blankets, etc. You will want a bag at each household, as you don’t know where the children will be when disaster strikes. Also, since children grow, and needs change, make sure you check your emergency kits every three months and update them as needed.
The type of disaster matters.
Severe weather is not the same as an earthquake or a fire. Have a plan for the different types of disasters that may affect your area. For example:
In a hurricane, tornado, or high-wind storm, stay inside your home. Choose a small, interior room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet, on the first level.
In a fire or evacuation, you may need to leave your home suddenly. If you need to meet, choose a spot in your neighborhood such as a playground, a big tree, or distinctive mailbox.
In the event of an emergency, make sure the lines of communication are open between you and your ex. Have a plan in place to notify that the children are safe.
Practice, practice, practice.
Make an ICE card with the basics of the plan (including contacts) that can be kept in each adult’s wallet. Include a copy in your school-age child’s backpack. Then, schedule some time to practice the plan with your children. Practice different kinds of emergencies with each parent.
There’s an app for that.
There also are apps that you can use to prepare for an emergency. FEMA offers interactive checklists and emergency safety tips. The Red Cross provides apps specific to hurricanes, tornados, and earthquakes. Plus, the government has some great resources for disaster planning, including games kids can play to get ready.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Thinking about renting a car for your next getaway? Much like insurance, rental car contracts can seem complicated, if you don’t know what to look for. Understanding what you need and what you don’t will help you save on your rental—and use that extra savings for vacation fun.
First, let’s take a look at the basics of a rental car contract.
Age: You must be 25 or older to rent a car in the U.S. You can still rent a car if you are aged 21-24, but you will pay an extra fee. Similarly, you may need to pay a surcharge if you are age 70 and above.
Additional drivers: You may pay a fee for each driver beyond the main driver. However, rental car companies often will let spouses drive for no additional fee.
Classification of car: The daily or weekly rate depends on the type of car that you choose.Choices range from economy, the least expensive, to luxury, and more. Here’s a quick rundown of the basic sizes:
Economy generally describes a small sedan with 2-4 doors and seating for 4.
Compact is a slightly larger sedan with 4 doors and seating for up to 5.
Intermediate/mid-size/standard are 4-door sedans that are more spacious than compacts. They seat up to 5.
Full-size/premium cars seat 5 comfortably and have ample room for luggage.
You can also rent luxury cars, convertibles, SUVs, mini-vans, vans, and trucks. Keep in mind that the rate quoted for the car you choose is only the base rate. The actual price you pay may be more because it will include fees and surcharges.
Fees and Surcharges: You might expect to pay state and local taxes. But did you know you also may pay a surcharge to pick up/drop off your car at the airport? There’s a charge if you don’t return the car with the same level of gas. There also are charges for insurance, to protect against damage to the vehicle.
Insurance: Before you purchase rental car insurance, make sure your auto policy doesn’t already cover rental cars. Many policies do. If you’re renting a car out of the country, double-check that your auto policy covers you. For example, when traveling in Mexico, you will need a special Mexico policy.
Collision Damage or Loss Damage Waiver – Optional in many states, this type of coverage pays for the rental car if it is damaged or stolen. There usually is a deductible, for which you’re responsible. If your auto policy covers collision damage, make sure that it also covers “loss of use.” For a rental company, getting a car repaired in the shop means it loses the income it could be getting from renting the car. The rental company can charge you the daily rental rate for each day the vehicle is out of service.
Personal Accident Insurance – This optional policy covers you, the driver, in the event of an accident, including ambulance transportation and medical bills.
Supplemental/Additional Liability Insurance – This optional policy covers the other driver and passengers whom you may injure in an accident. It also covers any property damage. You likely have liability on your own auto policy. Check to make sure the liability limit is enough. You can purchase supplemental liability insurance with the rental car company or get an umbrella policy from your current insurer.
Personal Effects Coverage – This optional policy covers your possessions if they are damaged, lost, or stolen, something your homeowner or renter’s policy may already cover.
Mileage: Some rental contracts come with unlimited mileage. Others require that you pay for mileage beyond a certain daily limit. For example, if the daily limit is 150 miles, and you drive 160 miles, you will owe 10 additional miles at the rate charged by the company.
Now let’s see how you can save some money.
You have a lot of choices in renting a car. That gives you some control over how much you spend. Here are some ways you can keep the bill more reasonable.
1. Choose a slightly smaller vehicle. Not only will this save on the daily rate, but the car will also most likely get better fuel economy and require less gas to fill it up.
2. Book your rental car through your airline. Airlines have arrangements for discounts with rental car companies. That’s why bundling rental cars with flights and hotels can save money.
3. Book through your credit card. Credit cards can include a collision damage waiver. Just make sure you also are covered via your auto policy, as credit cards are usually tapped after your auto policy.
4. Take advantage of membership and group discounts. You may qualify for a discount if you are a member of AAA. There also are sometimes alumni or university discounts. If you rent frequently, you can get discounts via a rental car loyalty program.
5. Shop around. You might find a locally-owned rental company with a better rate. You also can find good rates on travel websites such as Kayak. If you’re using a lesser-known company, do your research with the Better Business Bureau to make sure they’re legitimate.
6. Check alternate rental locations. It may be cheaper to pick up in town than at the airport.
7. Check your own auto policy coveragesso you choose only the coverages you need. Check with your insurer on other potential savings. For example, California Casualty will waive your physical damage deductible if you rent a car while on vacation.
8. Return the car on time. Be aware of the 24-hour time clock. You can be charged for extra hours or even an extra day depending on how late you are.
Renting a car can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. For more questions on rental car insurance or ways you can save on your own insurance policy, call a California Casualty agent today at 1.866.704.8614 or visit our website www.calcas.com.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Maybe you’ve enthusiastically jumped into the school year—or maybe the year already feels overwhelming. Take a breath; you’ve got this!
Here’s what you need to know so you can stay focused, practice self-care, and avoid teacher burnout. (For part 1 of this series on self-care, click here.) Burnout is more than just having a bad day. It’s ongoing anxiety and stress that leads to physical and mental exhaustion. You may feel overwhelmed because you’re teaching during a pandemic, trying to enforce a mask mandate while keeping students engaged and on task. Or you may have too much on your plate, and there’s a serious imbalance between work life and home life.
Burnout doesn’t just affect you. It affects everyone you are around- your students, your friends, your family…etc. Fortunately, you can do something about it.
Create an environment that inspires you.
Your classroom sets the stage for learning. Make it one that inspires you as well as your students. Redecorate your classroom to create the place you want to be. Move the desks; adjust the lighting. Set up a classroom library. If the school allows it, add a favorite scent. When the weather permits, take your class outside for a change of scenery. Importantly, have fun with your students. Try jokes and brain teasers in addition to interesting lessons.
Separate work and home.
Bringing papers home to grade seems to be every teacher’s “go-to” strategy. After all, you’re tired from a long day; you don’t want to stay at school a minute longer. Instead, try this: don’t take work home. Do your lesson planning and grading at school. Then, when you’re home, forget about work. It’s already done. It may not be possible every single day, but when you can, leave work at work. That will help to create real work-life balance.
Reduce your workload.
As a teacher, you’re constantly asked to do all sorts of things. Keep your responsibilities manageable. Don’t feel obligated to attend all kinds of school events. Pause before accepting new assignments. Saying “no” is an acceptable response and you shouldn’t feel guilty for it; practice how to do it graciously. Plan ahead as much as possible, so that you can spread out your responsibilities and you’re not caught in a work crunch.
Incorporate healthy habits.
When you’re at your healthiest, your energy level is high and you can take on the world. Don’t sacrifice healthy habits during a busy school year. That means don’t skip meals and don’t opt for fast or processed food. Fuel your body with a healthy diet of fresh, seasonal foods. Drink plenty of water (timed around your bathroom breaks). Don’t stay up late to get more things done; get enough sleep so you’ll be rested and refreshed. Need a midday boost? Take a micro nap when you get home. Make exercise a regular part of your schedule. Choose activities that you enjoy, such as walking with a friend, biking or taking a fitness class. Importantly, be intentional about self-care. Schedule time each day for yourself.
Stay mentally stimulated.
Not only are you a teacher, you are a lifelong learner. Keep your brain stimulated by learning about the topics that interest you. Watch a TED talk, read an interesting book, learn something new, and then share it with your students. By example, you’ll make them lifelong learners, too.
Practice gratitude and spread positivity.
We choose our attitudes. Make yours a positive one. There are many ways to be kind and foster positivity. Call a parent and tell him/her how well his/her child is doing. Share a motivating experience with a colleague. Be the voice of positivity at staff meetings. Show your gratitude to an administrator or fellow teacher. Continue to be grateful for all the positive things in your life.
Assess your own mental health.
Many educators are suffering from secondary traumatic stress (STS), a term used to describe the stress caused by helping others exposed to trauma. Also known as compassion fatigue, STS is common among teachers during the pandemic. You’re helping students work through the emotions of loss, from the loss of loved ones to missing out on graduations and other milestones. It can take its toll. A doctor or therapist can guide you through these challenges if you are experiencing STS.
Ask for help when you need it.
You don’t have to do this alone. There are supportive colleagues, friends, and family members available to help. You only need to ask. If things start to become overwhelming, reach out to trusted colleagues for support. Access resources through your school’s Employee Assistance Program, which offers confidential counseling for health/wellness, financial and legal services. If you need a break, consider a sabbatical. Your district may offer paid or unpaid leave while still holding your position.
Remember why you became a teacher.
You’re making a difference in the lives of young people. Embrace the variety and the ups and the downs as a part of the learning experience for yourself and your students—and celebrate the success.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
We don’t think much about our heat, electrical, or plumbing until they stop working…
Like a regular health checkup, a home system checkup includes routine maintenance that can help prevent costly repairs and future emergencies.
Homeowners, follow our checklist to keep your home systems running smoothly all season long.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) System
The HVAC system is responsible for heating and cooling your home. Regular maintenance can help lower your utility bills, increase your system’s lifespan, and ensure you are breathing healthy air.
Check the air filter. If it’s dirty, it will make your furnace work harder. Clean or replace the filter every three months.
Clean the air vents. You can vacuum the vents to help prevent blockages. If you suspect there’s a buildup of dirt and grime, consider scheduling an air duct cleaning.
Vacuum lint from the clothes dryer vent that leads to the outside of your house.
Adjust your programable thermostat for heat rather than air conditioning. If your thermostat takes batteries, replace them at this time.
Cover the outdoor air conditioning unit once you no longer are using it for the season. That will protect it from the weather, dirt, and debris.
Rotate your ceiling fans’ blades clockwise in cool months and counterclockwise in warm months to keep heat moving in a direction that minimizes the effort of your HVAC system.
If you haven’t done so this year, schedule an annual professional checkup to make sure your HVAC system is in good working order.
Even the best furnaces don’t last forever. You may need to replace your furnace after 10-25 years.
Plumbing System
A plumbing system delivers fresh water to your sinks, bathtubs, toilets, and other fixtures. It also takes away water and waste to a sewer or septic tank. Regular maintenance will help prevent issues such as leaks, clogs, and frozen pipes, which can be disruptive and costly.
Clean drains in your sinks and tubs by pouring half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of white vinegar.
Remove mineral deposits from your showerheads by filling a plastic bag with vinegar. Secure it with a rubber band over the showerhead and leave it overnight. In the morning, you should be able to wipe any buildup away.
Clean your garbage disposal to prevent it from hosting harmful bacteria or growing mold. This Old House suggests this approach: Pour a half cup of baking soda in the disposal. Wait 30 minutes, then pour in one cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture foam for 3 minutes, then rinse with hot water. Finally, grind up two cups of ice and a cup of salt while running cold water. You also can grind lemon peels at the end for a fresh scent.
Flush your water heater to remove any mineral buildup. You can find instructions online or call a professional.
Check your faucets inside and outside to make sure they are not dripping or leaking.
Check under the sink for any leaks or stains, which could signal water damage or mold.
Check any exposed pipes in your home for leaks and seal them. Insulate pipes in places that aren’t heated.
Disconnect outside water hoses to prevent them from freezing. Turn off underground sprinkler systems.
Clear debris from your
Call a plumber if there are issues.
Electrical System
An electrical system powers your lights, appliances, and more. Working around electricity requires knowledge and skill to take the proper safety precautions. If you’re unsure of how to do something, consult a trained professional.
Inspect your breaker panel. Check for signs of corrosion. Flip the breakers on and off to make sure they move easily and do not stick. (Make sure first to alert members of your household that you are switching off electricity so they can prepare accordingly.)
Test your outlets. You can buy a cube or block tester at any hardware store. You simply plug it in, and it lights up to indicate common issues. Also, test each outlet for tightness. Outlets may wear out over time. Finally, consider installing tamper-resistant outlets in any areas where children may be able to reach.
Place your hand on outlets and light switches to check for excessive heat. Also be aware of any “hot wire” smell when a light is on or an appliance is plugged in, or popping and cracking sounds. These indicate that you may need to replace that outlet or switch.
Look at exposed wires and cables in your basement and other areas of your home. If you notice damage, replace them.
Make sure exterior outlets are covered so that they are not damaged by the weather and animals.
Security System
Your home security system protects you from threats. No matter what system you have, a semi-annual check can keep it in top working order.
Inspect your sensors. Make sure they are firmly attached to windows or doors. Try to set off a motion sensor to ensure it is working properly.
Replace batteries if your system uses them.
Check lighting and replace bulbs as needed.
Make any adjustments needed to the camera angles. This is a good time to clean the lens.
Trim bushes that have overgrown and might provide cover for a thief.
Tighten loose screws in gates, door hinges, knobs, and locks.
Check your warranty or contract to see if you qualify for an upgrade.
Home fires spike in the fall and winter. Being prepared is key and could save your life if you are the victim of an unexpected house fire.
If you have not done so already, purchase smoke alarms that also function as carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon Monoxide is a poisonous, odorless gas that claims over 400 lives each year.
Install detectors on every level of your home, including inside of bedrooms and in common rooms.
Test and change batteries in older detectors or alarms.
Replace them after 10 years.
Have a disaster plan in case of a home fire and keep all other fire safety materials, like fire extinguishers, in well-working condition.
Take the proper precautions to avoid winter home hazards and keep your home in good working order this season.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
If a natural disaster strikes your community, what will you do?
As a nurse, your first instinct is to help. Whether you work at a school, a hospital, or clinic setting, your skillset is uniquely valued during a disaster. Here’s how you can help your patients cope after a natural disaster.
What types of natural disasters can you expect in your area?
Different parts of the U.S. are more prone to certain disasters than others, according to Popular Science. You’re more likely to experience wildfires in the western states and snowstorms in the Midwest and northeastern U.S. Tornadoes are common in south-central states while hurricanes often strike along the eastern seaboard. There are earthquakes in the west, and flooding happens pretty much everywhere. Not only do these disasters result in property damage, but they can also cause severe injury and even loss of life. Your nursing skills are much needed to minimize pain and suffering.
Why do nurses play key roles in a disaster?
As a nurse, you are a trusted professional. People look to you for guidance. You not only bring expertise in the medical field, you know how to coordinate care while helping to comfort patients, relieving some of their stress and fear.
In addition, disaster preparedness was likely part of your nursing training. If it wasn’t, or if you need a refresher, consider a disaster certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
What are ways that nurses can help in a disaster?
Nurses play pivotal roles in a disaster, delivering onsite care to the injured. Often working amid chaos and with limited resources, nurses triage patients and administer medical care. If more serious care is needed, nurses help coordinate transport to the nearest hospital. Victims of disaster may experience post-traumatic shock syndrome, and nurses also monitor patients’ mental health and guide them to resources. In addition, nurses help displaced people find temporary shelter and food and get access to prescriptions as needed.
Helping in a disaster is not for everyone. There are potential safety and security threats. There are primitive conditions. There can be a significant time commitment away from your home and family. If you are able to clear your schedule to volunteer, consider the other attributes that will help make you successful in a disaster setting: (1) Your clinical expertise covers a wide range of medical conditions. (2) You are comfortable working in high-stress situations and can work through emotions. (3) You are able to work in rough conditions, perhaps without access to electricity, water and basic supplies. If you have the skills, the time, and the desire, disaster nursing could be right for you.
What is a school nurse’s special role following a disaster?
In addition to helping onsite following a disaster, we can’t forget about school nurses and the roles they play. They deal with the mental and physical effects among students, parents, teachers and staff. For families made homeless by the disaster, or those who need mental health services, a school nurse provides important connections to community resources. Similarly, she connects staff with district resources for mental and physical health.
How can you help your community prepare for a disaster?
You don’t necessarily have to volunteer in a disaster to help your community. You can be there to help prepare for a disaster in advance by assisting hospitals, schools, and towns in the creation of a comprehensive disaster plan.
Nurses can help with community education, leading disaster preparedness clinics, and giving people the knowledge to create their own disaster plans to make it safely through a disaster.
You can utilize resources from trusted organizations in developing the right program for your school, hospital, organization, and community. Consider these resources:
American Red Cross offers programs to teach kids about emergency preparedness.
The CDC offers guidance for teachers in helping children during and following a disaster.
The National Association of School Nurses has compiled this emergency supplies list for schools.
The National Center for Disaster Medicine and Public Health offers a free core curriculum online for health professionals.
How can you volunteer to help in future disasters?
If you are interested in volunteering your time, make sure you have up-to-date vaccinations for traveling, and be prepared to leave immediately. The following organizations welcome disaster-related nurse volunteers:
American Red Cross has a volunteer training program that helps to prepare you before you are deployed to a disaster.
Medical Reserve Corps has more than 200,000 volunteers nationwide, and local units that you can join.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
