There’s nothing quite like prom and graduation season—the photos, the dresses and tuxes, the flowers, the celebrations. But while your teen may be focused on finding the perfect outfit or planning the after party, you’re likely thinking about something else entirely: their safety on the road.
Here are some tips to help your teen navigate prom, graduation, and all the celebrations in between—safely.
1. Make “leaving early” a habit.
Encourage your teen to leave at least 10 minutes earlier than needed—more if weather conditions are poor. This reduces the urge to speed and gives them time to react calmly to traffic or detours. If they’re heading to the same event as many others, they might also encounter fewer cars and pedestrians if they beat the rush.
2. Limit passengers.
It’s fun to pile into a car with friends, but the more people you have, the more distractions the driver encounters. Set limits on how many friends can ride with your teen and remind them that safety comes before socializing.
3. Always buckle up.
Seat belts are simple but lifesaving. Make sure your teen—and everyone in their car—buckles up before the engine starts. Reinforce the message that seat belts are non-negotiable, even for short trips.
4. Phones down, eyes up.
Phones are one of the biggest distractions for drivers, especially teens. Talk with your teen about putting their phone away while driving. There are apps that can silence notifications, send automatic replies, and even block texts while the car is in motion. Sharing their location with you is also a smart move in case you need to reach them in an emergency.
5. Minimize all distractions.
Texting isn’t the only distraction. Eating, drinking, adjusting the music, or checking makeup can all take attention off the road. Remind your teen to stay focused and wait until they’re parked to multitask.
6. Don’t drive while drowsy.
With finals, late-night celebrations, and packed schedules, your teen may not be getting enough sleep. Driving tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. If they feel themselves nodding off, they should pull over in a safe place and rest before continuing.
7. No drinking and driving—ever.
This one may seem obvious, but it bears repeating. Teens should never get behind the wheel after drinking or using any substance. Have an open conversation about peer pressure and agree on a “safe word” they can use if they need you to pick them up—no questions asked.
8. Keep an emergency kit in the car.
Whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery, or a minor fender bender, your teen should know what to do in case of a car emergency. Pack a basic kit with a flashlight, jumper cables, water, a first-aid kit, and emergency contact numbers. Make sure they know how to use everything in it. Teach your teen basic vehicle care and warning signs.
9. Be accident-ready, just in case.
Teens are often accident-prone because of their inexperience behind the wheel. Make sure your teen knows what to do if they’re ever in a crash. Go over the basics together: stay calm, check for injuries, move to safety, call 911, and exchange information with the other driver. Keeping an emergency kit in the car and insurance details in the glove box can also help them feel more prepared and confident.
10. Set a curfew.
More than 40% of fatal crashes involving young drivers happen between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. It’s not just the challenge of driving in the dark—late-night trips are often social outings where distractions and peer pressure can run high. Even rule-following teens can be tempted to take risks. Setting an earlier curfew than your state requires can help keep your teen safer. Bonus: Offer to drive them and pick them up for late night outings.
11. Control the keys.
When teens have to ask for the car, it naturally opens the door for conversation. It’s a built-in pause that gives parents a moment to check in—about where they’re headed, who they’ll be with, and when they plan to return. It’s also a subtle reminder that driving is a privilege, not a right, and that responsibility comes with it. Keeping the keys in your hands helps reinforce expectations and encourages accountability.
12. Monitor risky behavior.
Consider a monitoring device or app that can track risky behaviors such as speeding, abrupt acceleration and sudden braking. You can also keep tabs on your teen’s location with GPS tracking. Some systems have a silent alarm so your teen can signal SOS if they feel unsafe.
Finally, this is a good time to review your insurance. Is your teen properly covered? Have you discussed all the ways you can save with a teen driver? Ensuring your policy is up to date can give both of you peace of mind during this high-risk season.
Prom and graduation are once-in-a-lifetime milestones, and you want your teen to enjoy them to the fullest—safely. Start the conversation early, model safe driving behavior yourself, and let them know you’re always just a phone call away. Your guidance and trust go a long way in helping them make smart decisions behind the wheel.
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 ready to hit the road in your RV. Whether you’re an experienced RVer or a newcomer to the lifestyle, protecting your vehicle from fire hazards can mean the difference between a dream vacation and a disaster.
As your home on wheels, your RV presents greater fire dangers than a standard vehicle. With features like kitchens and curtains, there are more opportunities for things to go up in flames. There also are electrical and mechanical components that can present a fire risk if not properly maintained. Here’s what you need to know to keep your family safe.
Electrical Systems
RVs use both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) power. AC operates your appliances and outlets while DC powers your engine and battery. Solar panels also are gaining popularity and can be configured to provide either AC or DC power.
Bumps and vibrations can loosen connections. Check your electrical systems regularly to make sure connections are secure.
Check for frayed wires and damaged outlets. Never use wires or outlets that are compromised. Replace as needed.
If the circuit breaker shuts off power to a certain circuit, it’s probably overloaded. Other signs include lights that flicker or buzzing noises from outlets and switches. Consult a professional to ensure that you don’t have an overloaded circuit.
While power strips are generally safe for small wattage appliances (charging cell phones or table lamps), they may not do well with high wattage. They also cannot handle continuous loads required by space heaters. Power strips can overheat and ignite combustible material in the walls.
Don’t cover electric cords with rugs or carpets.
Only use extension cords rated for outdoor use. If left out overnight, cords can get wet.
If you have an electrically charged fire, don’t use water to extinguish it. Use a fire extinguisher approved for type C fires.
Propane Appliances
Propane commonly powers stoves, refrigerators and water heaters in your RV. It’s an efficient fuel that also can be dangerous if mishandled. Propane leaks can cause fires and explosions.
Regularly inspect your propane tanks and lines for leaks or any issues. Do not use tanks and lines that have been damaged.
Always store propane tanks in an upright position in a well-ventilated area away from a heat source.
Turn off propane-powered appliances when not in use.
Make sure propane-powered appliances are off when you are in motion. Gasoline vapor and an open flame are not a good combination. Also, many propane appliances need to be level and roads are not.
Get your RV LP-certified. A licensed liquid propane technician can inspect and test your propane system.
Consider switching to an induction cooktop and electric fridge to reduce the use of propane.
Cooking Accidents
The small space and low ceilings in most RVs make it more dangerous to cook there than at home. Most RVs use propane stove tops, which can be an added risk.
Properly vent fuel-burning appliances. Never operate them in an enclosed space such as a bathroom, bedroom or storage area. Turn on the exhaust fan, open a window, or cook outside.
Keep flammable materials away from the cooking area.
Never leave cooking appliances unattended while preparing meals.
Turn off appliances before leaving the RV.
Check and maintain your appliances regularly. Keep them clean; make sure there are no loose or chewed wires.
Do not use cooking appliances to heat your RV. That could create a dangerous situation where there’s insufficient oxygen in a small space.
Pro Tip: For curtains, choose natural fabrics (cotton, hemp) which are less flammable than polyester.
Engine & Mechanical
Your RV is not just a home; it’s also a vehicle. That means it’s equally important to keep the engine and mechanical systems well maintained.
Check brakes and bearings. Improperly adjusted trailer brakes can overheat. Wheel bearings also can overheat if not properly greased.
Make sure there are no leaks. Place a piece of cardboard under the RVs engine for a few nights to see if you have a leak. Repair any engine or transmission leak as soon as possible. Transmission fluid is highly flammable.
Check the battery. Most RVs use lead acid batteries which must be ventilated, or they can give off dangerous gasses. Make sure the battery is open to the outside by vent or hose.
Trailer chains that are too long can drag on the road and create sparks. Adjust them as needed. Just one spark can cause a fire.
Improperly inflated tires can overheat and cause a fire. It also can cause the tire to fail.
Exhaust systems can become very hot. If they have contact with flammable dry grass, it could ignite.
Safety Gear
Outfit your RV with the right safety gear so you’re alerted to any potential emergency, and you can act quickly.
Check the alarms and detectors, and switch batteries every spring and fall.
Fire extinguishers should be in easy to reach areas, for example near the door. Get one that is rated type A (for wood, plastics, cloth) and type B (for liquid fuel like grease, oil, stove and motor fuel) and type C (for electric fires).
Test your emergency exits including windows that can be used as an escape route. Make sure you have at least two ways out and nothing is blocking those paths.
If you smell gas:
Extinguish all open flames pilot lights, lamps.
Shut off the gas supply.
Do not turn on an electrical switch as that can create a spark that causes an explosion.
Remember to evacuate first. Call the fire department, and then try to put out the fire.
If you’re renting an RV:
Remember to do your due diligence to make sure your RV is safe.
Choose a newer model. Older models of RVs have fewer and less advanced safety measures. Older engines and equipment also are more likely to fail.
Ask the last time it was inspected.
Look at the fire extinguisher expiration date.
Look at the indication lights on the propane system and carbon monoxide system to see that they’re working properly.
Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
If you suspect an issue, address it before you sign the paperwork.
Finally, if you’re driving your own RV, make sure it is fully protected by insurance for your own peace of mind. 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.
It’s a beautiful night to sit around the fire pit. The flicker of the flames and the crackling of the fire create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and conversation. Yet the scene can quickly turn dangerous without the right precautions.
Each year, fire pits send thousands of people to the emergency room. Young children and pets are especially vulnerable. Fire pits can also pose a significant fire hazard for your property, igniting leaves and grass, wooden structures and even your home. Follow these 10 fire pit safety tips to help keep everyone and everything safe.
1. Choose the right location.
Place your fire pit at least 10 to 20 feet away from other structures. Keep it away from low hanging branches above. There should be a minimum of 12 feet between your fire pit and tree branches. Never set up below power lines or string lights, which can create immediate danger if sparks fly. Don’t put your fire pit under a building overhang or in an enclosed area. That could cause a buildup of smoke, carbon monoxide and harmful gases that can be deadly.
2. Select a safe, stable surface.
Avoid putting your fire pit directly on the grass or on a wood deck. Instead place your pit on brick, concrete pavers, gravel or sand. Alternatively, you can buy pit pads and heat shields for underneath your pit, as well as pedestals. Surround your pit with crushed stone, sand or brick for added protection.
3. Choose the right fuel.
Soft woods like pine burn less efficiently, and spark more. It’s better to buy seasoned hardwood kindling and logs. You also could use fallen branches from trees in your yard. Do not, however, use construction lumber like pressure treated wood, plywood or chemically treated pallets. These woods will emit toxic fumes when they burn. So will trash and plastic. Never start a fire with lighter fluid or gasoline; that will create a burst of flames and can even release toxic gas or cause an explosion. Don’t throw leaves into the fire. They are light and can be carried by the wind. Finally, when tending to the fire, make sure your sleeves are rolled up and your hair is tied back. Use heat-proof gloves, a metal fire poker or safe long handled tongs.
4. Check the wind conditions.
Don’t use your fire pit on windy days. Wind can easily blow sparks around to surrounding brush. Use a screen to contain sparks and large embers. If your fire pit is portable, place it in a location with a natural windbreak before you start the fire. Always heed “no burn” alerts from your local municipality. If they say conditions are unsafe for a fire, it’s too risky to chance it.
5. Keep chairs far enough away.
Carefully place your seats around the fire pit. If you’re too close, your hair or clothes could catch fire. Stay 3-4 feet away from wood burning fires and 2-3 feet away from gas fires. Keep children 3-10 feet away from the flames. If a light breeze is blowing, have guests sit upwind so they can keep clear of the smoke.
6. Supervise children and pets.
Children and pets don’t understand the dangers of fires. They are naturally curious. Teach children the rules about not touching the fire or fire pit and not throwing things into it. Make sure they stay sufficiently away and remind them if they venture closer. Consider barriers or designated areas for both children and pets. Make sure there is a responsible adult who always has eyes on them.
7. Drink responsibly.
Fire and alcohol are not a good combination. Alcohol is highly flammable, and overindulgence can affect our judgment, coordination, and reflexes. If you are going to serve alcohol around the fire pit, have a designated nondrinker overseeing the flames. Keep everyone a safe distance away. You also may consider a smokeless fire pit which could add a layer of safety.Never leave a fire unattended. Extinguish it completely when you are done.
8. Never leave a fire unattended. Extinguish it completely when you are done.
Sparks can fly and fire emergencies can happen in an instant. If you must leave the area, designate a deputy to watch over your fire pit. Remember that fires are “live” for long after they seem to stop burning. Almost extinguished fires with hot ash and hidden embers have been known to cause plenty of damage. Make sure to put out the fire completely before leaving it. Pour water over live embers. Turn the logs to make sure all sides have stopped burning. Check the fire pit the next day just in case. Hover your hand over the ashes to make sure they are not still radiating heat. When it is safe to do so, use a metal shovel to dispose of ashes in a metal pail or trash can. Then wet the ashes by slowing pouring water over them.
9. Be prepared to extinguish a fire in an emergency.
Always keep a shovel, dirt/sand, and water on hand in case of an emergency. You can smother the flames by piling dirt or sand on them. You can spray water from your garden hose but don’t use a focused stream which can spread embers. Also check your manual to see if your firepit is made from a material that is water safe and won’t rust or crack. You may want to invest in a fire blanket which can be used to smother a fire. A multipurpose fire extinguisher can be used as a last resort.
10. Check your local regulations.
Some municipalities require you to get a permit for your fire pit. Due to the fire risk, some homeowners’ associations (HOAs) don’t allow fire pits. Others require an onsite inspection from a local fire official. Do your homework and find out the local rules so that you can follow them.
Finally, protect your home with the right insurance. Accidents happen despite our best precautions. Make sure you have enough coverage in the event of a fire.
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 May comes to a close, classes are ending, the days are getting longer, and temperatures are slowly beginning to rise. You know what else that means? Vacation. Summer is calling and many American families are planning to spend their free time on the road relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Traveling, in all forms, is at its peak in the summer months. Road tripping and RV-ing are currently on the rise, so much so that Fox News reports that 73% of Americans would rather road trip than fly. Aside from all of the scenic views that are available when traveling by vehicle, travelers feel a sense of freedom by land, with the knowledge that they can stop or change their destination at any point in time instead of following a strict schedule like you would in an airport.
Whether your destination is the beach, the mountains, or just the open road, it is critical that your vehicle is ready to make the journey with you. So before you jam all of your luggage in the trunk, be sure to check the following in preparation for your summer road trip adventure:
Periodically check and test batteries for proper charging. Summer heat drains batteries faster than the cold of winter.
Check the air conditioning system for leaks and proper coolant.
Check the tires for tread and proper inflation.
Be sure your cooling system has the proper anti-freeze/coolant and all belts, hoses and the water pump are properly working. Never open a hot radiator cap; the liquid inside is a scalding 200 degrees or hotter.
Verify the viscosity of your motor oil will stand up to hot weather days, 10W-30 or 10W-40.
Make sure the spare tire is inflated and there is a jack and tire changing tool.
Test your windshield wipers and change them if they are streaking.
Consumer Reports advises that, as well as checking your vehicle before leaving for your destination, you should also travel with a basic safety kit that consists of:
Cell phone and spare battery
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Warning light or reflective triangles
Tire gauge
Jumper cables
Foam sealant for flat tires
We don’t like to think that things could go wrong on vacation, but you never know what you will run into on the open road and that is why it is important to be prepared. Here at California Casualty we proudly support our customers and want you all to have a fun and safe summer full of road trip adventures, so before you hit the road, make sure that you and your vehicle are adequately protected for the unexpected you may encounter far from home.
Current customers call a California Casualty advisor for an auto policy review at 1.800.800.9410 or visit mycalcas.com/customerservice. If you are not a customer please contact us 1.866.704.8614 or visit www.mycalcas.com to request a FREE Auto Insurance quote.
Where do you plan on traveling this summer? Or do you have a dream road trip destination? Comment below and give us ideas for our summer travels! And if you are wanting to hit the road, but need a little help as to where check out Fox New’s Top 15 things to do on America’s travel bucket list.
Happy Travels!
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