by California Casualty | Safety |
Brush off your barbecue grills, stock up on popsicles, and get yourself a new swimsuit because…
Summer has officially arrived!
After a winter with too many snows and a Spring with too much rain, I am ready for summer. If your neighborhood is anything like mine, then the arrival of summer means:
Pool Season!
In the excitement of summer, it’s tempting to throw on a suit and jump on in…
but wait!
For most of us, it’s been about a year since we dipped our toes in the water. Before you and your family cannonball in, make sure you review these Pool Safety Tips to be sure you enjoy your summer safely!
Did you know: A child can drown in the time it takes to answer a telephone. More than 200 young children drown in backyard swimming pools each year.
Swim Safety Basics:
- Swim only in designated areas
- Make sure a lifeguard or responsible adult trained in CPR and first aid is present and attentive at all times
- A child who is drowning may not look like the ‘drowning’ we see in TV and movies. Before you swim with a child, please read this article about what drowning looks like and how to spot it. Read it by clicking here.
- Maintain constant eye-to-eye supervision with children in and around the swimming pool
- Stay in arm’s reach of young kids
- Establish and enforce clear pool safety rules (ex: No diving, Stay away from drains, no running, etc.) Post these rules where everyone using the pool can read them
- Never leave a young child unattended in or near water
- Do not trust a child’s life to another child
- Teach children to ask permission before going near water
- Issue the adult supervisor an item such as a whistle, bracelet, etc. to reinforce which adult is in charge of the safety of the children
- Make sure young or inexperienced swimmers are wearing US Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Floaties or other inflatable flotation devices are not life jackets and should never be substituted for adult supervision.
- Avoid distractions when supervising children around water. Remove children from the swimming pool for any distraction such as a telephone call, use of restroom, etc.
- Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapments. Here are some tips to review in case someone becomes entrapped.
- If a child is missing, check the water first– every second counts!
- Never permit any person to swim alone
- Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit, within a reachable distance- not inside!
- Know how and when to call 9-1-1
- Keep your pool clean and clear by maintaining proper chemical levels, circulation and filtration. This way, you can clearly see what is happening in the pool and minimize risks of earaches, rashes or diseases
- Make sure everyone in the home knows how to respond to water emergencies by having an emergency plan in place with your children
- Protect your skin! Limit the amount of direct sunlight you receive between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and wear sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 15
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine
- If it’s your pool:
- Have a fence enclosure that isolates your pool from the home, play areas, front and side yards and the neighbor’s yard
- Make sure all gates in the isolation fence are self-closing and self-latching
- All chairs, tables, large toys or other objects that would allow a child to climb up to reach the gate latch or enable the child to climb over the isolation fence should be removed or kept inside the fenced area
- Keep the following items away from the water:
- Tricycles or riding toys
- Electronic devices
- Any and all pool toys when the pool is not in use
Resources:
by California Casualty | Safety |
Halloween is less than a week away… but on the East Coast, something far scarier is brewing.
As Hurricane Sandy sets her sites on our shores, meteorologists warn that the hurricane conditions could mix with a winter storm to create a hybrid superstorm.
Due to the storm’s hybrid nature, and its Halloween-timed landfall, news agencies have dubbed it…
The Frankenstorm.
but for every Frankenstorm, we of course need…
Frankensafety.
But… how exactly does one prepare for a storm that is an unprecedented mix of both winter and hurricane conditions?
We thought you might ask.
Since reports are all over the map–with some saying the storm will be a dud and others calling it the storm of the century–we’re going with the prepare for all possibilities plan.
Frankenstorm is a two-headed beast. So below are some safety and preparation tips to tackle both hurricane safety and winter storm safety ‘head on.’
Hurricane Safety Tips:
- Build an emergency kit. Tips for building the kit can be found here
- Learn the elevation of your property and whether it is flood-prone
- Study community hurricane evacuation routes
- Know where you would go if a hurricane hit
- Make a plan on how to evacuate. A downloadable Family Emergency Plan can be found here. Print it off and complete it.
- Practice your plan
- Develop a plan for your pet. A great list of steps and supplies from the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) can be found here.
- Don’t forget about your business. Hurricane preparation does not end at home. Here is a great Business Survival Plan from the National Hurricane Survival Initiative
- Pay attention to the news. Know the guidelines of when you should evacuate and when you should stay. A good guide from the National Hurricane Survival Initiative can be found here.
- Cover all your home’s windows.
- Brush up on your watches and warning terms. That way, you’ll understand the risk and can better make safety and evacuation decisions. A good review from FLASH can be found here.
- Install straps or clips to securely fasten your roof to your frame structure to reduce wind damage
- Keep trees well-trimmed
- Clear loose or clogged rain gutters
- Reinforce your garage doors
- Bring in ALL outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and similar items that are not tied down
- If you live in a high rise, prepare to take shelter on or below the 10th floor
- Print out and LAMINATE (to protect from water), tips for what to do during and after a hurricane and put them with your safety kit. You can find “during and after a hurricane” tips here.
- Check your property insurance policy for appropriate coverage. Here’s some information on California Casualty’s coverage and here’s some information on flood insurance-an important factor in Hurricane recovery.
Winter Storm Safety Tips:
- Prepare an emergency kit. Click here for tips.
- Add these winter-storm specific items to your existing kit:
- Rock salt or other products to melt ice on walkways. Here’s a list of recommended products from the EPA.
- Sand to improve traction
- Snow shovels and snow removal equipment
- Heating fuel in case you lose power. Be sure to store good, dry wood for your fireplace or stove
- Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm
- Read, print off, and laminate this Red Cross Storm Safety Checklist. Make sure you have a safety plan, and that you review it with your children
- If it gets cold and you want to use a heater, be SURE to read these safety tips! Portable heaters cause fires!
- Review these tips for pet safety during a winter storm
- Minimize travel. One of the most dangerous places during a snow storm is roadways. If you can, stay inside.
- Listen to the radio and be aware of changing weather conditions. To brush up on your winter snow storm terms, click here.
This Frankenstorm has the potential to be dangerous and deadly. Please protect yourself, your family and your home. Review your safety and preparedness plan BEFORE the storm hits.
(And in the meantime, we’ll hope it’s just like all those bad horror movies: All hype, no scare.)
by California Casualty | Firefighters, Health |
Firefighters don’t get a snow day. While most of us are bundling up and staying indoors, fire crews are battling blizzards, icy roads, and sub-zero temperatures — even while fires burn hot and fast inside buildings. Snow, sleet, hail, and bitter cold don’t just make the job uncomfortable; they complicate every step of a fire response, from frozen hydrants and sluggish water supply to hazardous footing and equipment that doesn’t perform the same in extreme cold.
Firefighting in winter demands more than bravery — it requires planning, adaptability, and a proactive approach before the first flake falls.
Prepare Your Equipment
Cold weather exposes weaknesses in gear quickly. Make sure you have extra hose lengths, hydrant tools, and water supplies readily available. Keep a stock of shovels to manage snow buildup on scene, along with sand or salt to improve footing.
Every crew member should be familiar with the truck’s window defrosters, cab heat, and brake retarders, which are especially important on slick roads. Pump operations require special attention as well. Cold temperatures change how pumps behave, so firefighters need to understand when it’s appropriate to run a pump wet versus dry to avoid freezing damage.
Maintain That Equipment
Winter calls don’t end when the fire is out. After using pumps, ladder pipes, deck pipes, or manifolds, make sure all equipment is thoroughly drained. If possible, this should be done at every shift change to prevent residual water from freezing and causing costly damage. Coating the threads of fittings or port caps with antifreeze can also help prevent freezing and keep equipment operational when it’s needed most.
Coordinate With Other Agencies
Strong communication becomes even more critical in winter weather. Establish clear coordination with Public Works for snow removal on fire station streets and primary response routes. Law enforcement may also need to assist with traffic control, street closures, or removing abandoned vehicles that block access. These partnerships can save valuable minutes during an emergency.
Plan and Use Snow-Removal Routes
Knowing which roads are plowed can make the difference between a quick response and a delayed one. Identify snow-removal routes in advance and use them whenever possible to ensure the safest and fastest access to the scene.
Use Cold-Specific Tactics
Before committing to a water supply, test hydrants to confirm they’re not frozen. Small handheld propane torches can help free frozen hydrant caps or hose couplings when needed.
If a hose line is being used intermittently, keep a slight flow of water moving through the nozzle to prevent freezing. Spread salt on icy surfaces to reduce slip hazards, and secure or brace ladders carefully so they don’t slide during operations.
Be aware that extreme cold affects smoke behavior as well. Smoke tends to stay lower rather than rising, which can significantly reduce visibility — even outside the structure.
Watch for Structural Hazards
Water behaves differently in freezing temperatures. Instead of running off, it may freeze on contact, adding weight and stress to roofs, floors, and other structural components. This increases the risk of collapse and should be factored into tactical decisions.
Ice can also accumulate on ladders, increasing their weight and potentially causing twisting or failure. Monitor ladder conditions closely and adjust operations as needed.
Hydration Still Matters
When it is cold out, dehydration isn’t usually top of mind, but it should be. Cold air, heavy gear, and hard work take a toll on the body, even if you’re not sweating buckets. Firefighters should arrive on scene already well hydrated and keep sipping fluids throughout the operation. A good rule of thumb: aim for about a quart of water an hour during active work, even when the temperatures are low.
Protect Firefighters from Cold Stress and Frostbite
In extreme cold, firefighters can only work outside for short periods before the weather takes a toll. Keep work periods brief and make sure crews take regular breaks to warm up. Gear holds in heat/sweat, so when activity slows, that moisture can quickly make the body cold. This can cause shivering and a dangerous drop in body temperature.
Cold stress affects more than just the body — it affects the mind. As body temperature drops, your ability to think clearly declines, which increases the risk of mistakes and injuries.
Frostbite can happen fast when skin is exposed to severe cold. The skin can freeze, damaging blood vessels and tissue. Because the area may feel numb, firefighters may not realize it’s happening right away. The best protection is prevention: wear loose layers under turnout gear that let moisture escape and always wear two pairs of socks. Limit work periods outside and have access to a warming station.
Support Mental Wellness
The darker, colder months also can take a toll on mental health as well as physical endurance. Fatigue, isolation, and seasonal mood changes are real challenges in the fire service. Make sure your crew knows mental health resources are available and encourage open conversations about stress and well-being.
As winter tests every call and every crew, thank you for answering the call no matter the conditions — and for doing the job that keeps our communities safe. It’s cold out there. Take care of one another and come home safe.
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.
by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips, Travel |
The fall and winter holidays are here, and that means one thing — road trip season! Whether you’re packing up the car for a cozy weekend with family or planning a winter getaway, a little prep now can make the miles ahead smooth and stress-free. So before you hit the highway, let’s make sure both your car and your crew are road trip ready.
1. Give Your Car a Quick Checkup
Take some time to make sure your vehicle is in good shape. A simple once-over now can prevent big headaches later.
- Tires: Start from the ground up. Check tread depth using the penny test — if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. Adjust the air pressure to the manufacturer’s recommendation (listed on the inside of your driver’s door), and make sure your spare tire is in good shape and properly inflated.
- Battery: Car batteries tend to struggle in extreme temperatures. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested before your trip. A weak battery can leave you stranded in a rest area or gas station parking lot — never fun with a trunk full of luggage and kids in the back seat.
- Lights: Do a quick walk-around to check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replacing a bulb takes only a few minutes and improves both visibility and safety.
- Oil & Fluids: If you’re due (or close to due) for an oil change, take care of it before your trip. Clean oil helps your engine run more efficiently on long drives. Don’t forget to top off brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and coolant (anti-freeze) — especially if you’re heading into colder weather.
- Belts & Hoses: Pop the hood and look for cracks, fraying, or leaks. Worn-out belts and hoses are a common cause of breakdowns on long drives.
- Recalls: Before you leave, take a minute to look up your VIN at gov/recalls. It’s an easy way to see if your car has any unaddressed safety issues.
2. Stock Up and Plan for Emergencies
Even with the best prep, life can throw a curveball. A well-stocked emergency kit ensures you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Pack these essentials:
- Jumper cables
- First aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Blankets or emergency thermal wraps
- Reflective triangles or road flares
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire sealant for small punctures
- Multipurpose tool or pocketknife
You’ll also want to keep a portable phone charger or power bank handy, especially if your car doesn’t have USB ports. Toss in personal medications, a small stash of cash (for tolls or emergencies), and some bottled water and nonperishable snacks in case you get delayed. For comfort, include pillows, cozy blankets, and a travel cooler filled with snacks and drinks. A happy car equals happy passengers — and fewer unscheduled pit stops!
3. Keep It Clean and Comfortable
Nothing ruins a road trip faster than clutter and chaos. Before you go, clean out the interior and start with a fresh, organized space. Make sure to bring along:
- A small trash bag or reusable bin for wrappers and napkins
- Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes for quick cleanups
- A travel-size tissue pack or paper towels
If you’re traveling with kids, you may want to childproof your car and stock up on car-friendly activities — audio books, travel games, or coloring pads. For adults, download your favorite playlists or podcasts before leaving areas with spotty reception. Little touches like seat cushions, neck pillows, or a cozy throw blanket can turn long stretches of highway into something a bit more comfortable.
4. Don’t Forget the Paperwork
Make sure your essential documents are where they belong. Keep your driver’s license in your wallet and your vehicle registration and insurance card together in your glove compartment for easy access. It’s also a good idea to store digital copies of key documents in your phone’s secure folder or email for backup.
Bringing your pet along? Don’t forget their vaccination records, ID tags, and pet insurance information. Pack food, a collapsible water bowl, leash, and waste bags. Remember to plan regular stops for bathroom breaks and walks — both for safety and comfort.
A well-kept home sends the message that someone’s still around, discouraging would-be burglars and helping you relax on your trip. A few simple precautions can make it look like you never left.
- Let a trusted neighbor know your plans and how to reach you.
- Avoid posting your trip on social media until you’re back.
- Mow your lawn and tidy up the yard before you leave.
- Stop your mail and newspaper deliveries or ask a neighbor to collect them.
- Leave a car parked in your driveway or ask a friend to park there occasionally.
- Set indoor lights on timers to turn on and off automatically.
- Consider installing a home security system or video doorbell for extra reassurance.
6. Check the Forecast and Plan Your Route
Before you head out, check the weather — not just for your destination but for every major stop along your route. Knowing about snow, heavy rain, or construction zones can help you reroute or adjust your travel times. If the forecast calls for snow or ice, pack an ice scraper, small shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction. You might not need them, but you’ll be glad to have them if you do.
Download a reliable navigation app like Google Maps or Waze and save offline maps in case of poor service. If you’ll be driving through rural or mountainous areas, keep a printed map as a backup — sometimes, old-school really is best.
7. Enjoy the Ride
Once your checklist is complete, it’s time to focus on the best part — making memories on the open road. Cue up a fun playlist, plan a few scenic stops, and don’t rush. Whether you’re watching the leaves change or catching a winter sunrise, the journey itself can be just as rewarding as the destination.
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.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Homeowners Insurance Info |
You’ve found the dream apartment — great neighborhood, easy commute, maybe even a dishwasher (score!). But before you start packing boxes, there’s one big question to answer: Can you actually afford it? Figuring out how much rent fits your budget isn’t necessarily exciting, but it can save you from living on instant noodles by mid-month. Let’s break it down.
The Classic 30% Rule: A Starting Point, Not the Whole Story
You’ve probably heard of the 30% rule, the long-standing guideline that says you should spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on rent. For instance, if you make $60,000 a year, that’s $5,000 a month before taxes — so 30% would be $1,500 for rent.
Landlords often use a version of this when screening tenants. They look for applicants with an annual income that is at least three times the monthly rent. While this rule can be a useful benchmark, it’s a rough measure. It doesn’t consider student loans, credit card debt, childcare, or savings goals.
In short: the 30% rule is a place to start — but not where your math should end.
Build a Budget That Works for You
Instead of relying on outdated formulas, create a personalized budget that reflects your lifestyle and financial situation. Here’s how.
Step 1: Track Every Expense
To figure out how much you can realistically spend on rent, you first need to know where your money is going. Spend a month tracking your expenses — every dollar. Apps like YNAB (You Need a Budget), or Rocket Money can make this easier by automatically linking to your accounts and categorizing purchases.
Be sure to include:
- Utilities: Gas/electric, water, internet
- Groceries and dining out
- Transportation: Gas, parking, public transit, car payments, vehicle maintenance, and insurance
- Health insurance and out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Debt payments: Student loans, credit cards, personal loans
- Recurring expenses: Subscriptions, memberships, and automated payments
- Entertainment and streaming services
- Gifts, clothes, and home supplies
- Pet expenses
Step 2: Subtract Expenses from Income
Once you’ve totaled your monthly spending, subtract it from your take-home pay (after taxes). What’s left gives you a real idea of what you can afford for rent.
If that number feels tight, look for easy trims. Could you cut back on takeout or unused subscriptions? Maybe refinance student loans or car payments for lower rates. Don’t go overboard — budget changes that are too drastic rarely stick — but even small shifts can free up hundreds a month. Consider a roommate if that’s an option.
The 50/30/20 Rule: A Smarter Spending Framework
If you like structure but want more flexibility than the 30% rule, try the 50/30/20 budget. It divides your income into three simple categories:
- 50% for needs: Rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance, and other essentials
- 30% for wants: Dining out, clothing, hobbies, travel, and entertainment
- 20% for savings and debt: Emergency fund, retirement contributions, or extra payments toward loans
This framework gives you room to breathe while keeping savings front and center. And if your “needs” category (including rent) creeps higher than 50%, that’s your signal to re-evaluate what you can comfortably afford.
Plan for the Unexpected
Even the best budgets can be derailed by surprise expenses — car repairs, medical bills, or job changes. That’s why it’s smart to build an emergency fund.
Financial experts recommend setting aside enough to cover three to six months of expenses. That might sound like a lot, but you can start small. Even putting away $50–$100 a month adds up over time — and gives you peace of mind knowing you’re protected if something unexpected happens.
Beware of Rental Scams
In today’s tight housing market, scammers are getting more creative — and more convincing. If a listing feels off, trust your gut. Here are some red flags that could indicate a fake rental ad:
- The deal seems too good to be true (it probably is).
- There’s no physical address
- Communication happens only through email or text — no phone calls or in-person meetings.
- The “landlord” seems too eager to rent and skips background checks.
- You’re asked to wire money or send a deposit before seeing the property.
- There’s no lease or you’re told one isn’t necessary.
- The landlord claims to be “out of town” but will hold the unit for you once you send money.
Always visit the property in person, verify the owner’s identity, and never send payment until you’ve signed a legitimate lease.
Don’t Skip Renter’s Insurance
Once you’ve signed the lease and unpacked your boxes, there’s one more thing you’ll want to check off your list: renter’s insurance. Starting at around $10 a month, renter’s insurance is one of the most affordable ways to protect yourself financially. Your landlord’s insurance only covers the building — not your personal belongings.
Renter’s insurance typically includes:
- Personal Property Coverage – Protects your belongings from theft, fire, or other covered losses.
- Liability Coverage – Helps pay for damages or injuries if you’re found responsible.
- Additional Living Expenses – Covers hotel or temporary housing costs if your apartment becomes uninhabitable.
Think of it as a safety net for the unexpected. And if you bundle your renter’s policy with an auto policy through California Casualty, you may qualify for premium discounts — a smart way to save even more each month.
Finding the perfect apartment should be exciting, not stressful. By taking the time to crunch the numbers, track your spending, and plan ahead, you can move into your new place with confidence (and still have money left over for furniture or Friday night pizza).
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.
