The open road, the sunshine, and vacation time—it seems that summer is meant for road trips. With so many of your fellow travelers on the road, though, there’s a chance for collisions. That’s especially true if you’re on a long drive, on unfamiliar roads or distracted by confusing signs, or even the passengers in your car.
So, how do you avoid a vacation-spoiling accident? Knowing the most common summer collisions – and their causes – can help you take action to avoid them. Here’s what you need to know.
Rear-end Collisions
These common types of collision can be caused by tailgating or distracted driving during stop-and-go traffic. Rear-end collisions also happen when motorists drive too fast or aggressively. To avoid a rear-end collision:
Slow down and watch your speed.
Increase your following distance between your vehicle and the car in front.
Avoid stopping suddenly or swerving.
Make sure your taillights and turn signals are working.
Pro Tip: If your car has one, an automatic braking system or forward collision warning system can help prevent these types of accidents.
Front-end Collisions
When the front end of your vehicle strikes another vehicle, tree, telephone pole, or other object, it’s a front-impact collision. These types of crashes are common during rainy weather. To avoid a front-end collision:
Drive more slowly in the rain. Roads are slippery. Fog can impair your vision. Give yourself time to adjust.
Increase your following distance in inclement weather. This will help give you more time to react.
Avoid distractions; even playing with the radio or talking to passengers can divert your attention.
Lane keeping systems can help. They alert you when you’re drifting out of lane, and can even steer your car back into the lane.
Side-impact Collisions
You know these as T-bone collisions or sideswipes. They often occur at intersections, as a result of confusion about which vehicle has the right of way. However, they also can occur if you run a red light or change lanes without warning. To avoid a side-impact collision:
Look both ways as you approach a stoplight. Slow down when you see yellow; don’t speed up. You could risk running a red light.
Come to a complete stop at every stop sign. Know where other traffic is before proceeding.
Check your blind spot before changing lanes.
When passing cars, be alert for other drivers changing lanes unexpectedly.
Highway Construction Collisions
Construction crews are out on the roadways, often sharing space with vehicles traveling at high speeds. That’s why it’s especially important to watch for signage and adjust your speed as you navigate past a construction site. To avoid a highway construction collision:
Pay attention to construction site speed limits and follow them.
Watch for signage and personnel directing you where to go.
Slow down as you are passing workers and be alert.
Increase your following distance for the car in front of you.
Interstate Collisions
High speeds coupled with distracted, aggressive, or drowsy drivers can cause accidents. When a crash happens on the highway, it can sometimes have a chain reaction effect. Make sure to use due diligence when you’re traveling at high speed around other vehicles. To avoid an interstate collision:
Follow the speed limit and maintain a safe following distance from other drivers.
Clearly indicate with your turn signal when you wish to change lanes. Check your blind spot before doing so, and make sure cars in other lanes aren’t heading to the same place you are.
Maintain your distance from cars that are driving aggressively or dangerously.
Limit distractions. Your priority is to drive safely.
Parking Lot Collisions
We may not think about it, but parking lots can be dangerous. When the lot gets busy, it’s easy to have multiple cars moving in different directions. Inattention or simply a bad decision can cause a collision. To avoid a parking lot collision:
If possible, park in a spot away from other cars.
Check your surroundings before getting into your car to pull out of your parking space.
Don’t rely on technology alone (such as rearview cameras). The image can be distorted by sunlight or shadows. Use your mirrors.
Move slowly and be aware of pedestrians and cars in the immediate area.
Don’t drive when you’re drowsy. If you’re feeling tired or having a hard time staying awake, pull over in a safe place and take a power nap.
Don’t use your cell phone when driving except for emergencies.
Don’t eat or drink anything in spillable containers while you’re driving.
Don’t drive when you’ve had a few drinks. Use a designated driver or call a ride-share service instead.
Avoid driving during high traffic times.
Take your car in for a maintenance checkup before you go on a road trip. This will help avoid equipment-related accidents.
Finally, make sure your car is insured so you are fully covered in case of an accident.
Safe travels!
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.
You’re a proud pool owner – or a soon-to-be one. You know how important it is to keep your pool clean, safe, and ready to swim.
We’ve compiled a list of 10 common maintenance mistakes that pool owners make, and how you can avoid them. Use this as your guide to ensure that your pool is ready to enjoy all season long.
1. Don’t ignore your pool’s pH level.
The pH is a measure of how acidic or basic your water is. If your pool’s pH is too low, the water is acidic—which is good to keep away algae but which can damage pool equipment like your pump and filter, heater, vinyl liner, and chemical feeder. When the pH is too high, however, it limits the effectiveness of your chlorine, the chemical that kills pathogens—microorganisms and bacteria that could be present in your pool. Pool pH that is too high also can cause skin rashes. That’s why a balanced pH is important.
Do: Test your pH levels at least twice a week. Keep the pH between 7.2 and 7.8.
2. Don’t add chlorine—or try to shock your pool—on a hot day.
It’s less effective to add chlorine to the water on a hot day. When chlorine is exposed to sunlight, it forms ions that convert to a gas that releases into the atmosphere. That requires you to add more chlorine for the right effect. Shocking—or adding a chemical mixture with a high dose of chlorine—has a similar effect. While you may want to do a shock treatment that helps to get rid of chloramines that can irritate eyes and skin, daytime is not the right time to do it.
Do: Add chlorine when temperatures are cooler, such as during the evening. Shock your pool once a week at night.
Pro Tip: Don’t think a strong chlorine smell means your pool has too much chlorine. When some contaminants in your pool oxidize, they can give off the scent of chlorine. If you smell chlorine, test your pool’s chlorine level. If needed, add chlorine until the water gives a reading between 3 and 5 parts per million (ppm).
3. Don’t do a shock treatment through your skimmer or put the shock chemicals directly into your pool without diluting them first.
Combining pool shock and chlorine can create a deadly gas, which can explode. That’s why you never want to add a shock treatment to a filter system with an automatic chlorinator. Putting those chemicals together in a confined space can cause an explosion in your pool’s filter system. Pool owners also have been burned and severely injured by mishandling of these chemicals. In addition, you don’t want to add shock directly into your pool. Shock is a form of concentrated chlorine; it can bleach anything within contact. Always dissolve the chemical into a bucket full of water. That will ensure it’s more evenly dispersed and it will protect your pool walls and floor.
Pro Tip: When diluting shock, put water in the bucket first and then add the chemicals. Putting chemicals in first can cause them to splash back on your arms or face.
4. Don’t run the pool filter system less than 8 hours each day.
Your pool’s filter and pump push water in and out of the system, cleaning it of dirt and keeping pool chemicals mixed. While running it less may seem like a cost-saving measure, it’s not. Inadequate pool filtering leads to more expensive treatments to remove algae and critters in your pool. While the size of your pool does matter, for most pools, 8 hours should do the trick.
Do: Keep your pool filter running at least 8 hours a day so it can do its job.
5. Don’t forget to brush.
Regular vacuuming helps to clear your pool of debris. Regular brushing helps to get those problem spots like the waterline, steps, and stairs, and behind ladders, corners and crevices. This helps to keep algae and other unwanted substances under control.
Do: Use an extra wide, heavy-duty aluminum pool brush with curved edges. Brush every week or more often if your pool is often used.
6. Don’t try to fix an algae problem with an automatic pool cleaner.
A robot simply pushes debris and algae around, and up through a mesh bag where it can clog. In other words, if you’re using an automatic pool cleaner, you’re just spreading the problem around. You’re not removing it.
Do: Use a manual vacuum. Make sure you either remove the drain plug or switch your filter to waste.
7. Don’t forget to check your calcium level.
Calcium helps to protect concrete, plaster, fiberglass, and vinyl. However, too much calcium makes the water cloudy. Again, you have to strive for that perfect balance. The recommended range is 175 to 225 parts per million (ppm).
Do: Check your calcium levels and as needed, add some calcium hardness increaser to the water. Note if you’re using calcium hypochlorite shock, you’re already adding calcium when you do the shock treatment.
8. Don’t backwash your pool filter too often.
Debris builds up in your pool’s filter over time. This sediment eventually begins to thicken and after a while prevents water from flowing through the filter. That’s the time to backwash. You’ll know because the pressure will be close to 10 psi. However, you don’t want to backwash too often. It could lead to cloudy or murky water because you’re also washing away the bed of fine sediment that helps your filter clear the water.
Do: Backwash only when your filter’s pressure gauge is 10 PSI. As the sand in your filter ages, and pressure increases regardless of backwashing, it may be time to change the filter media.
9. Don’t neglect your pool’s water level.
If your water level is too high, you’ll get water on the deck and most likely backwash that pushes dirt and debris back into the pool. If it’s too low, your pool’s pump might start filtering air instead of water, which could damage it.
Do: Keep your pool’s water level at the right height for the day’s swimmers and evaporative impact.
10. Don’t forget to prepare the pool for your furry friends—and clean up afterward.
Dog owners love sharing their pool with their furry friends. Yet the average-sized dog can introduce more contaminants to your pool than the average person. This includes pet hair that can clog filters to natural oils and even dirt. All of this can change your pool’s chemical levels. It’s good to know however that chlorine is considered safe for dogs as long as it is the recommended amount.
Do: Brush your dog before swimming to reduce the amount of pet hair. Rinse your dog after swimming to reduce chlorine exposure. Make sure your dog is safe in the summer heat. Vacuum your pool after each pet use. Regularly clean your filter, too.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your pool with the right homeowner’s policy, and take steps to minimize its risk as an attractive nuisance. That will provide peace of mind for you and your family to enjoy your pool and outdoor recreation all season long.
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.
You’ve got a new addition to your family – or you’re expecting one soon. Congratulations! There is a lot to do to prepare, including getting your home ready for your new baby.
Here’s a checklist to help better prepare your home for your new little bundle of joy.
In the Bedroom
Take strings off of the bottom of sleepers (clothing) so they don’t get wrapped around baby’s toes. Check all clothing for loose buttons that could be swallowed.
Remove mobiles when the baby can sit on his or her own.
Adjust the mattress so it’s in the lowest spot when the baby can pull up to a standing position.
Store creams and smaller objects that your baby could fit in its mouth up high and out of reach.
Place a protective cover on all unused outlets.
Wind or wrap electric cords so that babies cannot pull on them, causing lamps or other appliances to fall.
Wrap or tie up drapery cords so they are out of reach. Use cordless window blinds if possible.
Make sure all heavy furniture, like drawers and desks, are anchored to the wall to prevent them from falling over.
In the Kitchen
Make sure high chairs are sturdy and tray latches are secure.
Install cabinet locks so when the baby starts exploring, little fingers won’t get into the contents.
Install appliance locks so baby can’t pull open an oven or dishwasher door.
Use a stove guard that attaches to the front and blocks knobs so that curious kids can’t turn them on.
Store cleaning products out of reach of baby. Store them safely up high or behind a secured cabinet. Similarly, keep any alcohol out of reach.
Keep all knives, cooking utensils, smaller appliances, and glassware safely stored away in cabinets or drawers.
Consider a child safety look on pantry doors to keep curious kids away from unopened groceries.
In the Bathroom
Set your water heater to 120 Fahrenheit or below to prevent burns. Or install an anti-scald device on your tub’s faucet.
Use nonslip mats for the bathtub and any tile floors or hard surfaces.
Put a rubber spout cover on the tub faucet to protect from bangs or bruises.
Replace any bathroom trashcans that do not have lids.
Make sure the toilet seat has a protective lock and that it is never left up for the baby to fall in.
Store away fragrances, razors, soaps, styling tools, makeup, etc. out of reach.
In the Laundry Room
Get a child safety lock for your washer and dryer doors so that curious toddlers cannot crawl inside. (Some newer models may include safety locks.)
Store bleach and detergent pods out of reach. While they look good enough to eat, pods can be poisonous.
Use a lock on the laundry room door to prevent curious crawlers from exploring, especially when machines are in use.
Never leave hot irons or steamers plugged in.
More Throughout the Home
Mount any heavy furniture to the wall so it doesn’t tip. If you can’t mount your television, secure it in a cabinet.
Block staircases with a hardware-mounted baby gate to ensure it stays put. Pressure-fit gates may not. Know that safety gates are designed for children ages 6-24 months.
Install window guards to prevent babies and toddlers from falling out of open windows.
Add furniture padding to pointy corners on coffee tables, kitchen counters, and other places.
Remember that toddlers will pull themselves up on furniture so ensure that it is secure.
Install pinch guards to protect little fingers from getting pinched in doors.
Cover any open outlets with child-safe covers.
Keep chargers and any other cords stored away and out of reach.
Make sure anything breakable, like decorative vases, glass photo frames, or indoor planters are placed safely out of reach.
Make sure the doors on your fireplace remain closed and that you use a protective gate to keep the baby at a far enough distance away.
As a new parent who cares about safety, you’re going to be great. Enjoy your new arrival!
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.
When disaster strikes, you may have only minutes to gather your loved ones, your pets, and your belongings, and get on the road. Are you ready?
Whether it’s a flood, fire, or other emergency, there are times when evacuations are necessary. These are often stressful times when you need to move quickly, and might not have time to grab everything you need. Preparing for emergency evacuations ahead of time will help you and your family know exactly what to do, and what to bring with you, in times of crisis.
Here’s what you need to consider when planning to evacuate.
Learn about local disasters and policies.
The location where you live can determine the types of disasters that are most likely. Find out if your area is prone to floods, hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, wildfires, landslides or winter storms. Knowing the type of disaster will help you determine how far away you may have to travel in the event of one.
Your place of work, your children’s school or daycare, and your local community probably have evacuation plans. You’ll want to find out about them, so that you can incorporate that information in your plan if it applies. Ask these places how they communicate about disaster procedures and what their policies are for emergencies and evacuations.
Pack it up.
Pack an emergency kit full of essential items and documentation your family will need that’s ready to go and keep it in a place where you can grab it easily. Make sure it’s one you can carry or transport easily if you have to walk long distances or travel on public transportation in an emergency.
Pro Tip: Revisit the content of your kit every six months. That’s when food may expire and children’s clothing sizes may change.
You will need nonperishable food, bottled water, and supplies for 3 days. This includes soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and prescription medications. Make sure you include supplies for pets or infants, such as food and formula, and for any special dietary needs for members of your family. Also pack clothes and pajamas for every member of your family, as well as any bedding, pillows and sleeping bags. Finally, bring a first aid kit and all of your devices and chargers, as well as a battery-powered radio to stay on top of news and information.
Keep a small amount of cash or traveler’s checks at home in a safe place where you can access them in case of evacuation. Store important papers in a fireproof, waterproof container that may be grabbed in case of an emergency. These may include birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, insurance policies, wills and deeds, and even treasured photos.
Plan your escape route.
Plan for the worst-case scenario. You want to make sure that every member of the family can exit your home safely in the event of an active disaster, such as a fire or earthquake.
Draw a floorplan for your home. Use a blank sheet for each floor. Mark 2 escape routes from each room. Hang the drawing at eye level in each child’s room. Make sure children understand the drawings. Do a room tour and point out the exits. Practice using them. Talk about when your children might have to use them.
Plan for which adults are bringing which items packed in the previous section. Dividing the responsibilities will help you get out more quickly.
Know where to go.
Know your options about where you can evacuate. You may choose to evacuate to a shelter in your town, to a local hotel or motel, or to family or friends in another town, away from the danger. It also may depend on the type of disaster. You may not be able to stay local in a widespread flood but might be able to shelter in a hurricane. Download the FEMA App to locate emergency shelters in your area.
If you choose the local shelter, find out the rules. You want to make sure that they can accommodate your family. You’ll also have to make separate arrangements for pets. (See the pet section below.)
Choose destinations in different directions in case the emergency is in one part of town. Have the addresses and phone numbers handy for easy access.
Map it out.
Keep a full tank of gas if evacuation seems necessary. Gas stations may have long lines or not be able to pump during a power outage.
Be familiar with alternate routes in case you cannot take the route you know. Be alert for road hazards, washed-out bridges, and downed power lines. Avoid driving in flooded areas.
Bring a physical map in case you don’t have access to a GPS or if satellites go down or your devices run out of power.
Plan for pets.
You want to protect your pets during a disaster. That means you will need to find them a safe place to shelter, whether it’s with you at a pet-friendly location or at an animal boarding facility. Know that facility’s evacuation plan if they may be in the region.
Pack pet food, leashes, litter boxes, crates, beds, toys, and any other supplies needed by your pet. Bring a copy of updated veterinary records.
Make sure your pet is microchipped and has a proper ID on his or her collar if applicable. Bring a photo of you and your pet together, which can help if for any reason your pet gets separated from you.
Stay in touch.
Establish a place to meet near your home in case you get separated. Choose a place immediately outside (such as the driveway), a little bit further (such as the stop sign at the end of the street), and a location even further (such as the neighborhood grocery store).
Choose an out-of-state contact that you all can call if needed. Update that person when you are evacuating and as you change locations.
Use the American Red Cross “Safe and Well” website to let family and friends know you are safe.
Ready, set, go.
Take the 10-minute evacuation challenge. See if you can get your family and belongings in a car in just 10 minutes. Then, practice your evacuation drill regularly.
Finally, check that you have enough insurance to cover your home, car, and possessions in case they are destroyed in a natural disaster or other emergency. You’ll all have peace of mind knowing that you are fully prepared and know exactly what to do.
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.
You’ve got the captain’s hat. You’re bringing the cooler. But what else do you need—or want—to have fun and stay safe on the water this summer?
There are literally hundreds of great boat accessories on the market, plus lots of safety gear to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of practical and fun items you’ll want to keep on your boat this summer. Scroll down for a list of what to leave at home, too.
First the fun…
A mounted grill – Treat everyone to a BBQ out on the open water. You can find boat grills in gas, charcoal, and electric. Just make sure to wait to grill until the boat has stopped, and don’t leave it unattended.
An inflatable boat slide – Everyone loves a boat slide! Choose one that inflates quickly, stores compactly, and holds adults as well as children. Durability is a plus.
Tow tubes – Give your passengers a ride on the waves using a tow tube. These fun accessories come in different shapes and sizes and accommodate a range of ages. Make sure you check the maximum weight and rider limit and equip all of your riders with life jackets.
Speakers – Crank up the tunes with some great speakers that are waterproof and can stand up to the elements, including wind, sun, and the motion of your boat.
Fish finder – Take the guesswork out of fishing. Today’s fish finders feature digital screens and include systems like GPS, electronic compasses, and radar. Starting at about $100, these instruments can go into the $1,000s.
Then the practical…
10-in-1 Boat Tool – This is the “Swiss Army Knife” of boat tools with every gadget imaginable. Not only does it include a fishing line cutter, a marine gas cap key, and a safety whistle, it includes a beer and wine bottle opener.
Telescopic boat hook – Until you have one, you don’t realize how useful these are! These hooks help you retrieve items that fall in the water. They also help you more easily get hold of the dock lines attached to pilings.
Underwater LED lights – If you take your boat out at night, an underwater light can help your boat be seen in the dark. These lights can come in different colors and add a cool ambiance.
Non-tipping can cooler – The rocking motion of your boat can easily tip your drinks. Secure them, and keep them cold, in a non-tipping can cooler.
Boat fenders – These cushions absorb the impact of bumps against docks and other boats.
And the necessities…
Don’t forget to pack a boat emergency kit full of the boat safety basics:
Life jackets and throwable personal flotation devices in case someone goes overboard
Fire extinguishers (check the regulations to see how many you need for the size of your boat)
Spray sunscreen which can leave a slippery film on deck
Shoes with dark soles that leave marks
Cigarettes/cigars that can accidentally cause a fire
Perfume that attracts bees and can cause nausea in close quarters
Glass containers that could shatter
Plastic grocery bags that could fly off the boat and clog waterways
Finally, check your boat insurance. Make sure you’re fully protected from accidents, uninsured boaters, and liability claims.
Happy boating!
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.
Summertime is a great time to be outside and enjoy the sunshine. But sometimes the summer heat can be too much. When it’s hot and humid, like most summer days, it’s easy for us to get overheated, which in turn can lead to serious heat-related illness.
High temperatures are especially dangerous for the elderly, pets, and young kids. So, if you’re sending the kids out to play, or if you’re planning to be outdoors enjoying summer fun for an extended period of time, watch for signs of overheating and follow these tips to cool down quickly.
1. Drink cool liquids.
The more water you drink, the better your body is able to regulate heat by sweating. Even better than water – especially if you’re starting to overheat – is coconut water. It has additional vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. Also, try cold peppermint tea. Peppermint has a natural cooling effect. Put a peppermint tea bag into a glass filled with ice water, stir and drink.
Note: By the time you feel thirsty, you most likely are dehydrated. Try to drink water on a regular basis to stay hydrated.
2. Eat a frozen summer snack.
Who doesn’t love a popsicle on a hot summer day? These treats do double duty; they’re delicious and they help to cool you down. Frozen smoothies also are a yummy alternative, or try frozen fruit like watermelon wedges. You can even make your own ice cube popsicles with fruit and fruit juice.
3. Apply ice to parts of your body.
If you’re feeling hot or ill from the heat, ice can help. Take an ice pack, or an ice cube wrapped in a covering, and apply it to parts of your body. Look for places where your veins are closest to the surface; that will help cool you the quickest. Try the insides of your wrist, your neck, chest, and temples.
4. Find cool water.
Take a dip in the pool or lake. Run through the sprinklers. Get sprayed by the hose. Put your wrists under cold running water. Take a room-temperature bath. All of this will help to cool down your body. You can also soak two washcloths in cold water. Wring them out; put one around your neck and the other on top of the inside of your wrists.
5. Make your own cooling spray.
Fill a spray bottle with one part aloe vera gel and three parts cold water. Shake it up and you have a cooling body spray.
Pro tip: Keep the cooling spray in a chilled metal bottle to keep it cooler longer.
6. Create a cross breeze.
Place a fan across the room from a window. The breeze coming in will be caught up by the fan and circulated. Set up more fans around the room for an even greater cooling effect.
7. Eat spicy foods.
It may seem counterintuitive, but eating spicy foods can cool you down. That’s because spicy foods increase your blood circulation and help you sweat. Sweat in turn cools you down. So, enjoy that kick of spicy summer salsa!
8. Get out of the heat.
Get to a shady area, or better yet, inside to the air conditioning. Then, use one of the other techniques listed above to help cool down. Call for medical help if needed. See below for guidance.
9. Protect your pets.
Our pets get hot too, especially our fur babies. If your pet is going to be out in the sun with you,
follow our heat safety tips for pets.
Know the signs of overheating
There are 3 stages of overheating, each progressively more dangerous than the previous one. according to the CDC. Stages 1 and 2 are usually able to be managed at home. Stage 3 requires medical attention.
Stage 1 (Heat Cramps): You may feel tired, dizzy, and dehydrated, and your muscles may cramp.
What to do: Rest and rehydrate. Drink water or something with electrolytes. Massage the affected muscles and wait for the cramps to go away.
Stage 2 (Heat Exhaustion): Headaches, nausea, vomiting, and heavy sweating are symptoms of heat exhaustion.
What to do: Move to a cool place. Stop all activity and drink water or something with electrolytes. If the symptoms last for more than an hour, seek medical help.
Stage 3 (Heat Stroke): You will stop sweating, even though you feel extremely hot. You may feel confused. You could breathe fast. You might have a seizure.
What to do: Heat stroke can cause permanent brain damage or even death.
Go to the hospital immediately.
Stay safe and have a fun summer!
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.
