Balancing work and personal life during the holidays can feel like a juggling act. That’s especially true for shift workers on the front line—EMTs, nurses, police officers, and firefighters. While others are wrapping gifts or planning holiday feasts, you’re often working long shifts, answering urgent calls, or preparing for the next day’s challenges. Even if you’re not a first responder, chances are the holidays are a stressful and hectic time with shopping, family gatherings, and a long to-do list.
But here’s the good news: with a little planning and focusing on what really matters, you can still soak up the festive spirit and make it all work.
Set Boundaries
Communicate your availability to family, friends, and colleagues in advance.
Be clear about work commitments and carve out protected time for personal activities.
If you’re feeling pressured from friends or family to do more—buy more gifts, cook more food, or attend every gathering—remember that it’s okay to say no.
Know your stressors and take steps to minimize or avoid them.
Embrace Teamwork and Flexibility
Coordinate with coworkers to swap shifts or share responsibilities, ensuring everyone gets some holiday time.
Be open to celebrating on alternate days if you’re scheduled to work on the holiday.
Don’t take on more than you can handle. Work with your team to prioritize what really needs to be done, and what can wait.
Be flexible. Things won’t always go the way you planned. Keep your attitude positive and adjust as needed.
Plan Micro-Moments of Joy
Integrate small holiday traditions into your daily routine, like sipping hot cocoa during a break or wearing festive socks.
Bring the holiday spirit to work by decorating your workspace or sharing treats with colleagues.
Notice the little moments of the season—the bustle of a holiday market, the scent of gingerbread cookies, the feeling of warmth and connection with those around you.
Enjoy a quiet moment among the holiday decorations after loved ones have gone to bed. Reflect on the true meaning of the season.
Simplify Holiday Expectations
Focus on meaningful, stress-free traditions rather than trying to do everything perfectly.
Delegate tasks like cooking or gift shopping to family members or opt for simpler solutions like potluck dinners.
Avoid over-scheduling yourself. Prioritize activities that truly matter to you and your loved ones, and don’t feel pressured to participate in every event.
Limit gift-giving. Instead of buying multiple gifts, consider giving a meaningful single gift, writing heartfelt cards, or even creating a holiday tradition of spending quality time together.
Celebrate Togetherness Around Your Schedule
Find opportunities to connect with loved ones, even briefly, such as a quick morning coffee or exchanging handwritten notes.
Invite family or friends to join you for breakfast or lunch if you’re working late shifts.
Participate in community events or host small gatherings around your schedule.
Use technology to stay connected, like video calls during downtime.
Ensure you’re eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep to maintain energy and focus.
Schedule time for activities that help you decompress, such as exercise, meditation, or a favorite hobby.
Leave work at work. Spend your off-duty time focusing on your needs.
Disconnect from social media and you’ll be surprised at how much time it adds to your day.
Schedule Everything
Write everything into your schedule so you’ll have a better idea of your commitments. Then cross off anything that doesn’t align with your values or bring you joy.
Give yourself the gift of time. Put personal downtime in your schedule and honor it as you would an appointment or commitment.
Add a holiday cushion of extra time between appointments so you’re not constantly rushing.
Not everything has to be scheduled during the holidays. Push some of your commitments beyond the holiday and into the new year. This is an easy way to extend the season while reducing your stress.
Reflect and Express Gratitude
Take time to acknowledge the importance of your work and the impact you have on others.
Keep a gratitude journal where you write down moments of thankfulness, big or small, to help cultivate a positive mindset throughout the season.
Share gratitude with coworkers and family to create a positive, uplifting environment.
Practice mindfulness to appreciate the moments you have with loved ones, no matter how brief.
As you navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, remember to prioritize what matters most—your well-being, your loved ones, and the moments that bring you joy. From all of us at California Casualty, we wish you a stress-free, joyful holiday season filled with peace, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. Happy holidays!
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.
It’s time to spoil the real VIPs in our lives—our pets and the people who love them! Whether you’re shopping for a cat cuddler, a dog devotee, or the proud parent of a feathered friend, finding the perfect gift can make tails wag, whiskers twitch, and hearts melt. From paw-some gadgets to cozy pet accessories, we’ve got a gift guide that’s sure to delight both two-legged and four-legged family members.
For Pets
Bow Wow Labs Buddy Safety Bully Stick Holder
Our dogs love bully sticks but when they get too short, they can become a choking hazard. This bully stick holder helps keep pups safe while chewing and ensures they enjoy their treats to the fullest without worry.
Drinking Fountain
Cats love to drink from running water, and this fountain provides a fresh, flowing drink that encourages hydration. There are many varieties available at a range of price points.
Hide and Slide Treat Dispensing Toy
Dogs must slide blocks and move flippers in order to access the hidden treats in this puzzle toy. Not only does it provide mental stimulation, but it’s also a great way to redirect your pup’s energy away from less desirable behaviors.
Interactive Laser
Keep your kitty entertained with this automatic laser toy that creates random patterns and movements. With 15 minutes of hands-free play and an automatic shutoff feature, it’s an ideal gift for busy cat parents who want to keep their feline friends active and happy.
Matching Hoodies
Choose a matching hoodie—or PJs or sweaters—for you and your pup to twin in style. This particular gift donates a portion of the sales to rescues so you’re giving while getting!
Matching Collar and Owner Friendship Bracelet
Celebrate the bond with your pet by sporting matching accessories! These stylish sets are available for dogs and cats, allowing you to show off your special friendship in a fun and fashionable way.
Pet Cactus Lick Mat
This cleverly designed lick mat helps soothe cats and dogs during stressful moments like grooming, baths, or nail trims. Its maze-like surface not only entertains pets but also gently removes food particles from their tongues, promoting healthier teeth and gums.
Talking Pet Starter Set
If only your dog or cat could talk…well, with this recordable button set, they just might start. Developed by a speech therapist, this could be a fun activity for you and your best friend.
For Pet Parents
Dog Bingo
Dog lovers will enjoy seeing their favorite breeds on this bingo board. It’s a guaranteed hit at your next game night. Don’t worry, cat lovers, there’s a cat version, too.
Doormat
Proclaim your love for pets with a fun doormat or a personalized one. Choose a washable version to make cleaning up those muddy pawprints a breeze.
Furbo Dog Camera
Watch your pet when you’re not at home with this 360-degree camera. The Furbo camera offers two-way audio and treat-dispensing capabilities, making it a must-have for pet parents who want to stay connected while away from home.
Grounds and Hounds Coffee Club
Coffee lovers and dog enthusiasts alike will appreciate this coffee club. Every purchase helps support rescue organizations, so you can enjoy your morning brew knowing you’re making a difference. Their gift selection includes fun items for both pets and humans too.
Greeting Cards
Not only does this greeting card company feature rescue dogs on their cards, they donate a portion of their proceeds to rescue organizations. Their pet-themed notecards make wonderful gifts.
Novelty Socks
Show your love with socks featuring your pet’s photo. Or find socks that have the right message, such as you can’t get up because the dog is on your lap. You can buy socks that save dogs and cats too.
Pet Backpack
Carry your pet around in style with a backpack that looks like the one Taylor Swift used for her cat in the Netflix documentary, Miss Americana. Chewy also has a list of their best 10 options in a variety of price ranges.
Pet Portrait
Commission a portrait of your fur baby or feathered friend. You can even find a cartoon version or put your pet on your favorite mug or other item. For a DIY take on a pet portrait, order one that the recipient can paint by number.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
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.
Every day, lives are lost, and families are affected by drunk driving. Yet, these tragedies are entirely preventable. By raising awareness and taking action, we can help ensure safer roads for everyone. Whether it’s through planning a safe ride home or promoting responsible behavior, we all have a role to play in preventing drunk driving and saving lives. Let’s explore how simple choices can make a world of difference.
The Reality of Drunk Driving
The Numbers: Nearly 40 people die each day in drunk driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s about one person every 39 minutes. In fact, almost a third of all deadly crashes in the U.S. involve drunk drivers.
The Legal Consequences: The penalties for drunk driving include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Consequences vary from state to state, but most use blood alcohol content to measure intoxication. In nearly all states, 0.08% is the threshold for drunk driving. Some states have zero tolerance for drivers under age 21 with any amount of alcohol in their system.
The Emotional and Financial Costs: If you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), it’s an expensive proposition. You may have fines to pay. Your insurance rates will increase. You will have to arrange for transportation if you cannot drive while your license is revoked. The emotional toll is significant as well, especially if the crash caused injuries and/or the loss of a loved one.
Why Drunk Driving Happens
Impairment: Alcohol affects your brain, causing you to react more slowly and lose coordination. It can make you drowsy. You may have trouble judging distances and tracking moving targets. If you have enough to drink, you could have difficulty maintaining your lane, braking appropriately, and controlling your vehicle.
Overconfidence: Many people overestimate their ability to function after drinking. They believe they are less impaired than they truly are. They may not realize how even small amounts of alcohol can affect their judgment and reflexes. This false sense of control increases the likelihood of accidents and mistakes.
Social Norms: Social pressure often plays a role in drinking. Friends or colleagues might encourage you to drink more, dismissing concerns about impairment or consequences. This can make it difficult to set personal boundaries or say no, leading individuals to drink more than they intended.
Practical Tips to Prevent Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains a significant danger on the roads, but it’s one that can be prevented with proactive measures. Here’s how to play your part in keeping yourself and others safe:
Plan Ahead
A little foresight can go a long way in avoiding risky situations:
Be the hero. Volunteer as a designated driver and coordinate with friends to rotate this role for group outings.
Choose alternative transport. Opt for a rideshare, taxi, or public transportation if you plan to drink. These options are often cheaper than the cost of an accident or a DUI.
Stay the night. If you’re attending a gathering where you’ll be drinking, ask the host if you can crash on their couch.
Know Your Limits
Understanding your own boundaries can prevent poor decisions:
Be alcohol aware. Alcohol affects everyone differently based on factors like weight, drink strength, and tolerance levels. Know how it impacts you.
Use tech tools. BAC calculators or personal breathalyzers provide a snapshot of your intoxication level—but don’t rely solely on them to decide if you’re fit to drive.
Err on the safe side. If you’ve consumed any alcohol, you could be impaired. Make decisions accordingly.
Host Responsibly.
When hosting, you can create an environment that discourages drunk driving:
Offer alternatives. Serve non-alcoholic beverages alongside alcoholic ones to give guests choices.
Feed your guests. Snacks or meals can slow alcohol absorption, helping guests pace themselves.
End alcohol service early. Stop serving drinks at least an hour before your event ends.
Keep an eye out. Pay attention to your guests. If someone appears intoxicated, offer them a ride home or a place to sleep.
Speak Up.
Your intervention could save a life:
Step in when needed. Offer to drive friends home if they’ve been drinking or insist they use alternative transport.
Take the keys. It’s tough to confront someone, but preventing an impaired friend from driving is worth it.
Be firm about your safety. Refuse to ride with anyone who’s been drinking.
Educate teens. Have open conversations about the dangers of drunk driving and ensure they know they can always call you in an emergency.
Drive Defensively.
Even if you’re sober, staying alert can protect you from impaired drivers on the road:
Stay vigilant. Watch for erratic driving behavior like swerving, inconsistent speeds, delayed reactions, or incorrect signaling.
Maintain distance. If you suspect someone is driving drunk, give them plenty of space to minimize risk.
Report suspected drunk drivers. Call local law enforcement with details such as the vehicle’s make, model, color, license plate, and location. Never try to stop the driver yourself.
Finally, protect your vehicle with the right insurance. Happy holidays and safe travels from all of us at California Casualty.
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 of adding a furry friend to your family? Or maybe your relatives are bringing their four-legged companion for a visit? Either way, ensuring your home is safe and welcoming for pets is important. From curious kittens to energetic pups exploring every corner, pet-proofing your space is essential to prevent mishaps. With a few simple tweaks, you can create a cozy and secure environment that’s perfect for both pets and people. Here’s a room-by-room guide.
Family Room/Living Room
Furnishings: Pets love to jump, even if you don’t allow them on your furniture. Make sure it’s safe in case they get up there. Remove furniture that moves when jumped on (rocking chairs and chairs with wheels), and don’t leave reclining chairs open. They can close from the momentum of the jump, entrapping your pet. Add anti-scratch tape to the couch and other furniture to discourage scratching.
Cords and wires: Pets love to play with dangling wires. Make sure cords from lamps, TVs, and other appliances are out of reach or taped down. You can use a pet-safe bitter apple spray to deter chewing. Cover electric cords or put them away when not in use. Follow guidelines for extension cord safety.
Knickknacks and toys: Be prepared for décor and knickknacks to be knocked over. Keep them out of reach of curious pets. Remove children’s toys to avoid damage and potential choking hazards.
House plants: Many plants can be poisonous to pets. Move them out of reach, possibly to a room where the door is closed so pets have no access. Fortunately, there are many pet-friendly plants that you and your fur baby can both enjoy.
Fireplace and heaters: Place dog beds and blankets away from fireplaces or heaters. Block off access to the fireplace for pets just as you would for young children.
Windows: Pets love to look out the window. Make sure your windows are closed. Install window guards so curious pets don’t accidentally fall through.
Kitchen
Cabinets: Pets can pry open cabinets. Add childproof latches to cabinets within their reach so curious paws and noses can’t get in.
Stove: Put up a stove guard to keep cats from jumping on a hot surface. Always supervise cooking. Don’t leave your stove unattended with pets in the house.
Dishwasher: Close the dishwasher when not in use. Dishwasher detergent has chemicals that can cause severe irritation to the mouth and well as gastrointestinal upset. Plus, sharp objects like knives with food residue can be enticing for pets, and cause injury.
Counters: Food can entice pets to jump up on counters. Even if the food is safe for them to eat, you don’t want them there. Store food in containers with tightly closed lids or in the fridge. Layering aluminum foil can keep cats from jumping on counters.
Trash cans: Keep garbage in pet-safe trash containers. Some are heavy enough so they can’t easily be knocked over and others come with locks. You can also tuck trash cans away in a closet or cabinet.
Bathroom
Cleaners: Store cleaning products and other hazardous chemicals out of reach to keep curious pets safe. Consider using cabinet latches to secure lower cabinets, and for dogs, placing items on high shelves can provide extra protection.
Medication: Always store medications in a secure cabinet or drawer. Even small amounts of medications can be toxic to pets if ingested.
Toilet: Keep the toilet lid closed to prevent pets from drinking water that may contain harmful chemicals. Use a toilet roll protector to keep playful pets from making a mess.
Accessories and bath items: Keep small items like hair accessories, loofahs, and razors out of reach. These items can pose choking or ingestion risks and laceration hazards.
Hair-styling heat tools: Always unplug and store curling irons, straighteners, and other heat tools immediately after use to prevent burns or accidents.
Bedroom
Closets: Keep closet doors closed to prevent pets from accessing laundry or shoes. Items like drawstrings, buttons, or small accessories can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Don’t forget to check under the bed for loose socks or undergarments and store them safely out of reach.
Curtain Cords: Dangling cords can be irresistibly tempting for pets but pose serious risks of entanglement or injury. Tie them up securely or opt for cordless window treatments to eliminate the hazard.
Bedside Table: Store medications, lotions, and cosmetics in drawers or on higher shelves, away from curious noses and paws. These items can be harmful if ingested.
Charging Cables and Electrical Cords: Keep electrical cords out of reach to prevent chewing, which can lead to electric shocks or burns. Charge devices on a high shelf, and tuck away charging cables when not in use.
Other Spaces
General: Use pet gates to section off certain areas for dogs. Keep in mind that gates are less effective for cats, as they can climb or jump over them.
Laundry Room: Always keep washer and dryer doors closed. Before starting the dryer, ensure no pets, especially cats, have climbed inside. Block small spaces behind washer and dryer units to prevent pets from getting stuck. Store dryer sheets in a sealed container on a high shelf; they contain chemicals that can cause gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation, and other serious health issues.
Garage: Store chemicals like antifreeze, paints, and cleaners on high shelves or behind locked doors. Clean any antifreeze spills immediately—just a small amount can be lethal if ingested. Keep sharp tools and objects safely stored and remove any mouse or insect traps that could harm pets.
Yard: Avoid letting pets into the yard immediately after applying pest control chemicals. Check that all outdoor plants are safe and non-toxic for pets. Repair holes in fences to prevent pets from escaping. Store lawn and gardening tools securely when not in use. Keep pets away from compost piles, mulch, and fertilizers, which can be harmful if ingested. Choose a pet-safe ice melt for your property during the winter months.
Balconies and Swimming Pools: Block access to balconies or use barriers to prevent falls, especially for small pets. Restrict access to swimming pools when not supervised to prevent drowning accidents.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
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.
As temperatures drop and roads become icy, taking steps to winterize your car ensures you stay safe and stress-free. From checking your battery to swapping out wiper blades, preparing for the season is all about protecting yourself and your ride. Ready to keep your car in peak performance through the cold months? Let’s get started!
Take care of your tires.
You depend on your tires to grip the road. Make sure they’re in the best condition to help you maneuver safely.
Check the tread. Tread gives you traction, and worn tread will take longer to stop on slippery roads with ice and snow. Put a penny into one of the grooves with Lincoln’s head facing you and upside down. If you see all his head, your tread depth is dangerously low. Replace your tires.
Rotate your tires. Tires don’t wear evenly. The front tires usually have more wear on the outside edges, because they lean when you turn right or left. The front tires also hold the weight of the engine. To help your tires wear evenly, you need to rotate them every 5,000-7,000 miles.
Align your tires. If you’ve ever taken your hand off the wheel while driving, and notice your car veering toward the side, you need an alignment. You need to align your tires to keep them pointing straight ahead. You can easily knock them out of alignment by going over a pothole. If you don’t align your tires, you can experience steering problems, poor fuel economy, and uneven tire wear.
Consider snow tires. If you live in a place where snow is heavy, you may wish to switch to snow tires. Their softer rubber remains flexible in cold weather and helps them grip the road. Their wider grooves also are better at repelling water and gaining traction in snow.
Check your tire pressure. As the weather changes, you will notice corresponding changes in your tire pressure. That’s because air expands as it gets hotter, which raises the pressure. It contracts as it gets colder, which lowers it. In cold weather, tire pressure can decrease about 1 psi for every 10-degree drop in temperature. That’s why it’s important to check your tire pressure when the weather changes, in extreme heat and cold, and adjust as needed.
Take care of your fluids.
Cold weather affects your car’s essential fluids.
Change your oil. Cold weather thickens engine oil. That makes it harder for parts to turn. It also puts a strain on the starter and the battery. Choose a lighter weight oil for winter. Check your owner’s manual for the proper oil weight.
Top off coolant (antifreeze) Coolant prevents your engine from overheating or freezing. Check the reservoir tank (not the radiator) and ensure the level is between the “min” and “max” lines. Use the correct coolant specified in your owner’s manual, as using the wrong type can damage the engine. Mix coolant with water in the ratio recommended in your manual.
Refill windshield fluid. We use our windshield wipers a lot in the snow and rain. Make sure you have enough wiper fluid. Use a formula designed for low temperatures to avoid freezing. Keep an extra gallon in your car for emergencies.
Change differential fluid if needed. This fluid helps to lubricate the gears and helps the wheels rotate at different speeds. It should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles as the fluid breaks down over time.
Take care of your car’s components.
Cold weather can wear down critical parts of your vehicle. Getting your vehicle checked out with routine maintenance helps you stay on top of things.
Test your battery. Cold temperatures slow down chemical reactions in the battery, reducing power. Check for corrosion and ensure it holds a charge. Replace old batteries to avoid breakdowns.
Inspect belts and hoses. Cracks or wear in belts and hoses can lead to failures in cold weather. Address any issues immediately.
Check your brakes. On slippery winter roadways, your brakes must be in good condition. Check and make sure your pads are not worn down. Otherwise, it will take longer to stop and could cause an accident.
Check your spark plugs. Worn spark plugs can make your car more difficult to start in the winter. Look for signs of wear like carbon buildup, a damaged ceramic insulator, or oil deposits. Check your owner’s manual for recommended replacement intervals.
Change your wiper blades. Snow, salt and slush builds up on your windshield. Your wipers need to work well. If your wipers look dry and feel brittle, if they make noise, or if they leave streaks, you will want to replace them. You can also get winter wipers which have a rubber edge and are heavier than regular wipers. A heavier weight makes the wiper motor work harder so make sure to remove them come spring.
Change the cabin air filter if needed. A dirty filter can cause your HVAC system to perform poorly. It can slow down defogging of your windows, and not screen airborne contaminants. Change the filter at recommended intervals.
Equip your car with emergency essentials.
Winter driving can be unpredictable, so pack for the unexpected.
Be ready for snow and ice. Make sure you have an ice scraper and snow brush.
Bring along cat litter. Keep a bag of cat litter to sprinkle if you get stuck in the snow or on a slick patch. The extra weight will also increase your tire’s grip on the road.
Stay fueled.Fill up your gas tank every time it hits the halfway mark. That way if you’re stranded, you’ll have gas to run the heat and keep you warm until help comes.
Stock up. Keep bottled water and snacks handy. In case of a breakdown, that will help.
Finally, protect your vehicle with the right insurance for added peace of mind. Safe travels 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.
