Katzbach Insurance

[katzbachinsurance]

Halloween and Covid-19 Safety

Keep Trick-or-Treaters and Yourself Safe

 Halloween is one of the fall season’s most treasured holidays. Kids love to dress up, get together with friends, and go door-to-door in search of the biggest and best goodies.  However, with Covid-19, Halloween will not be the same this year. 

 If your neighborhood is celebrating Halloween with Trick-or-Treating please follow these safety tips to help keep all the trick-or-treaters, and yourself healthy and safe.

 Trick-or-Treaters:

If sick stay home

Only go out with members of your household.

Social distance from other people be keeping 6 feet apart.

Wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose.  If you have a Halloween mask wear the face mask underneath.

Use hand sanitizer often, especially before eating treats, or after sneezing/coughing.

When you return home wash your hands immediately.

 Homeowners: 

If sick do not pass out candy.

Wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose.    

Mark off 6-foot lines up your driveway using duct tape.

Use a disinfected distribution table between the trick-or-treaters and yourself to pass out candy.

Use hand sanitizer often.    

Here are some additional pointers for ensuring your house is a safe place for trick-or-treaters:

 • Pets first. Many dogs, cats, and other furry family companions get scared when oddly dressed strangers approach their homes. Make sure your pet is in a safe and comfortable space or take them to a secure, relaxing offsite location for the evening. 

• Clean it up. If your yard gathers stuff - like toys, rakes and other yard tools, hoses, tree branches, you name it - take the time to clean it up. Make sure your yard is free of potential hazards and create a clutter-free walking path well before dusk falls this Halloween.

 • Light it up. Make sure you offer a well-lit path. You can do this using any type of yard lights, from solar, string, LED, existing outdoor lighting or glow-in-the-dark.

 • Turn it off. When you’re done for the night, make it obvious by turning any and all inviting lights off. However, if you’re still offering candy in a bowl outside, do make sure to keep the path well-lit until your sweet treats are tucked away inside the house. 

At Katzbach Insurance, we hope you enjoy a safe Halloween devoid of tricks and full of treats!

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Grilling Tips

Summers mean backyard grilling – safely! 

Just like hamburgers and hot dogs, a sizzling grill is a symbol of summer and grilling isn’t just about great food. Backyard barbecues often create treasured memories with friends and family. 

Keep in mind, however, that when you grill, you’re literally playing with fire. Thousands of residents each year learn this the hard way, suffering damage to their homes or even serious injuries in grilling accidents. 

There’s good news, though: You can prevent grilling accidents by taking some simple precautions. The tips below can help ensure you cook only your burgers — and not your house — the next time you fire up the grill. 

TIPS FOR ALL GRILLS

Your grill, whether gas or charcoal, should be on a level surface outdoors, away from anything that could be ignited by flames (bushes, fences, etc.).

NEVER use a grill indoors. Odorless carbon monoxide fumes could kill you.

Keep your grill clean and well-maintained. Check parts regularly to determine if replacements are needed.

Never leave a hot grill unattended or let children play near it. 

CHARCOAL GRILL TIPS

From Kingsford.com

Do not add lighter fluid directly to hot coals. The flame could travel up the stream of fluid and burn you.

Never use gasoline or kerosene to light a charcoal fire.

Use flame-retardant mitts and long-handled barbecue tongs, as coals can reach up to 1,000 degrees.

To dispose of coals, allow the ashes to cool for at least 48 hours before disposal in a non-combustible container. If you cannot wait 48 hours, carefully place coals individually in a can of sand or bucket of water. 

GAS GRILL TIPS

From the National Fire Protection Association

Check your grill’s hoses for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If you have a leak, and it will not stop after the grill and gas is turned off, call the fire department. If the leak stops when the grill and gas are turned off, have your grill serviced by a professional.

If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.

Do not keep a filled propane tank in a hot car or trunk. When getting containers refilled, make that your last stop before going home.

Store propane tanks in an upright position, and never indoors. 

From all of us at Katzbach Insurance, happy grilling, and stay safe this summer!

[katzbachinsurance]

10 Ways To Protect Workers From Coronavirus

                                                                                       As U.S. businesses take aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, business owners may be left wondering if they are doing everything they can to protect their workforce.

Here are 10 ways businesses can help protect workers from coronavirus.

1. Learn how COVID-19 spreads. Keep up to date on the latest COVID-19 research to understand how it spreads and take action to reduce the risk to your workforce.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the spread of COVID-19 from person-to-person most likely occurs among close contacts who are within about 6 feet of each other. It is commonly spread through respiratory secretions, especially when someone coughs or sneezes. For these reasons, you should remind workers to always cover their coughs or sneezes, to promptly dispose of tissues and thoroughly wash their hands, and to practice social distancing as much as possible.

COVID-19 can also live on different surfaces for hours or even days — 24 hours on cardboard and up to three days on plastic and stainless steel — according to the Virus Ecology Section of Rocky Mountain Laboratories. So, it’s important to avoid touching a surface that could have the virus on it and then touching your own mouth, nose or eyes.

2. Require sick employees to stay home. Employees who are ill or have symptoms of an acute respiratory illness (headache, fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and breathing difficulties) should notify their supervisor and stay home until they are symptom-free and cleared by their supervisor to return. Continue to monitor news from the CDC and World Health Organization (WHO) for guidance on how long an employee with COVID-19 should remain at home to avoid spreading the disease.

3. Send sick employees home. In some states, it’s now required that workers have their temperature checked before entering a business. If an employee appears to have symptoms of COVID-19 (for example, cough or shortness of breath) upon arrival to work or during the day, they should be immediately separated from the other employees and sent home.

4. Emphasize hand hygiene. Instruct employees to clean their hands often with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% to 95% alcohol or to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Soap and water should be used if hands are visibly dirty. Instruct them on techniques to use to thoroughly wash their hands.

5. Perform routine environmental cleaning. Employers should routinely clean all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as workstations, countertops and doorknobs, with a cleaning and disinfecting solution. When choosing cleaning products, employers should consult the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) list of EPA-approved disinfectants with claims against emerging viral pathogens and follow the instructions on the labels.

6. Communicate often with employees. Be sure to educate employees on the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and the precautions they should take to minimize their risk of contracting or spreading the virus, without causing panic. Provide guidance or resources on what to do if they or someone in their household becomes ill. It’s also a good time to be supportive of each other during this difficult and stressful situation.

7. Provide a place where employees can ask questions. Appoint an individual or department as the point of contact in your organization for employee questions about COVID-19. Share frequently asked questions, as needed, to keep everyone informed.

8. Review your safety and emergency action plans. Use your organization’s safety programs and emergency action plans to guide you on infectious-disease protocols, which may be unique to your business or industry.

9. Implement travel guidelines. Ask employees to follow government guidelines on traveling, including travel advisories, and to avoid any non-essential travel.

10. Stay informed. The COVID-19 situation is rapidly evolving and changing. Employers should closely monitor the CDC and WHO websites for the latest and most accurate information on COVID-19.

References: - CDC - OSHA - OhioHealth

This article is for informational and suggestion purposes only. If you have questions about your Grange business insurance coverage, talk with your independent insurance agent .                                                                                                                                 

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Car Accidents in Winter

How to Stay Safe After a Winter Car Accident

 It’s winter driving season in Cleveland. And, while most people know what to do to try to avoid an accident, many don’t know what to do after one. It’s vital knowledge to have, because the aftermath of a crash can be just as dangerous as the crash itself — especially when it’s cold and snowy.

Here are five things to do (or not do) if you’re in an accident this winter to help keep yourself and others safe:

  Make sure everyone’s OK — then get off the road if you can. The safety of everyone involved in a crash is the first concern, of course. So, check on the occupants of each vehicle and call for emergency assistance if it’s needed. Then, if the vehicles are drivable, get them off the road as soon – and as carefully – as possible.

Stay in your car if you can’t safely move away. If you can’t get your car off the road, but you can get off the road, wait until there’s no traffic around and then move well out of the way. Otherwise, stay in the car so you’re protected from other vehicles.

Stay visible — and warm. Turn on your hazard lights and put up road flares so other vehicles know something is wrong. And, grab your vehicle emergency kit (you have one, right?) for blankets and extra clothing. If you’ve run off the road and you’re still in your car, make sure nothing is blocking your exhaust pipe. Otherwise carbon monoxide may build up.

If you’re stranded, stay put. Running off the road in a remote area is scary, but resist the urge to try to walk for help. You risk getting lost, especially during a storm, if you set off on foot.

See a crash? Don’t always stop to help. Being a Good Samaritan could cause more problems than it solves. So, if those involved aren’t in immediate danger, call 911 and let the professionals help with medical aid and traffic control.

 It’s not always easy, but keeping a cool head after an accident will do more than help everyone get through a stressful situation — it will help keep everyone safer, too.  

And, remember, if something does happen on the road this winter, your Katzbach Insurance agent is here to help with your auto accident claim. If you’re unsure whether you’re carrying the right coverage, call now before it’s too late!

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Frozen Pipes

Don't Let the Cold Get to Your Pipes This Winter

It’s hard to think of a worse start to a winter day in Cleveland than turning on the faucet and … nothing. Maybe there’s a trickle of water, but it’s clear you have a frozen pipe. So, what now? Here are some smart tips to help you prevent or address what could easily become a very messy and expensive situation:

See to your outdoor water lines: Before cold weather arrives, drain water sprinkler and swimming pool supply lines, and remove, drain and store outdoor hoses. If possible, close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs, and open the outside hose bibs for draining. Keep them open so any remaining water can expand without breaking the pipe. If you can't shut off the water from the inside, pick up some foam faucet covers.

Keep your home warm: Maintain an interior temperature of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you’re sleeping or not at home. Seal any drafts and leave interior doors open to help keep an even temperature from room to room.

Tend to those pipes: Leave the cabinet doors open in the kitchen and bathroom so your pipes aren’t shut off from the warm air. You can also insulate your pipes with sleeves, heat tape or heat cable. Insulation is especially important in unheated areas, such as your attic, basement, garage or crawl space, and for pipes running along exterior walls. During severe cold spells, you may want to leave all faucets, both hot and cold, running at a slight trickle.

Call in a professional: Frozen water in your pipes can cause them to burst, meaning you’ll have a mess on your hands once that water unthaws. So, act quickly to shut off your main water supply, and call in a licensed plumber to see to the situation.

Finally, be sure to touch base with us at Katzbach Insurance to check whether you’re covered for the damage a frozen pipe may cause. We’re happy to answer all of your policy questions this winter, and beyond.

 www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

4 Reasons to Add Water / Sewer Backup Coverage

If you asked homeowners to create a list of situations they hoped to never have to deal with at home, a sump pump failure would likely rank just underneath having a fire.

Why?

It’s a disaster. Typically, when a sump pump fails it causes water to backup into your home, sometimes bringing all kinds of water-borne materials with it. A water backup can create costly damage. And homeowners have to quickly arrange for cleanup and repairs to avoid further damage.

While all of that may be a good enough reason to take a second look at water backup coverage, here are four more:

Reason #1: It’s not included in a standard homeowners insurance policy. Not sure if your home insurance policy includes water backup coverage? Then it’s time to give your independent insurance agent a call.

Water backup coverage is an optional endorsement that must be added onto a standard homeowners, condo or renters insurance policy. Without the endorsement, you would be stuck paying for the cost of cleanup or damages caused by a sump, sump pump or similar equipment that’s not considered a plumbing system or household appliance.

Reason #2: It’s fairly inexpensive. The average cost of water backup and sewer coverage is $50 to $250 annually, depending on your risk exposure and the limits you select.

Different limits are available to match people’s different needs. For example, think about what’s in your basement—it’s an area that’s more likely to flood during a water backup. Is it partially or fully finished? Is your basement a storage area for expensive or hard-to-replace items? Work with your insurance agent to choose a limit that matches your unique coverage needs.

Reason #3: Water backups can happen to anyone. There are a lot of misconceptions about who is more or less likely to experience a water backup situation. And the truth is it doesn’t matter if you live on top of a hill, if you don’t have a basement, if you already have flood insurance (which is a different type of insurance coverage) or if your home has never had a water backup issue before. Everyone has the potential to experience this type of loss.

Reason #4: It qualifies you for Loss of Use coverage if your home is uninhabitable. In most cases, a sump pump failure doesn’t make your home unlivable—in other words, you would still be able to live in your home while it was being cleaned and repaired. But in the rare case that it does make your home uninhabitable, having water backup coverage would qualify you for Loss of Use coverage.

For example, this might apply if your furnace is damaged due to a water backup, it’s 30 degrees outside and you can’t heat your home.

Loss of Use coverage covers additional living expenses, above and beyond a person’s normal living expenses, as well as loss of rent, if that’s the case. So if a water backup makes your home unlivable, puts you and your family in a hotel for a couple of days and your claim adjuster approves you for Loss of Use coverage, then the cost of the hotel room would be covered.

How to best prevent water backups To save yourself from a major headache down the road, here are some tips for avoiding water backups:

Don’t pour cooking oil or grease down your drains.

Only flush bathroom tissue in your toilets (i.e. don’t flush paper towels, feminine products, etc.).

Consider replacing your line with plastic pipe to prevent tree roots from entering it.

Consult a sump pump professional, typically a plumber, to check your sump pump regularly and look for any pre-existing drainage system issues.

Install a backwater prevention valve to prevent sewer backups—in fact, most new homes are built with this already installed.

Buy a battery backup to keep your sump pump running when the power goes out, or buy a water-powered backup sump pump.

 www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

Reference -Insurance Information Institute

[katzbachinsurance]

Preparing for Winter Weather

Getting ready for winter weather

 Extreme cold and winter storms is always a possibility here in Ohio, so we at Katzbach Insurance have compiled some tips to help you stay safe and limit damage.

Preparing your home

Perform basic winter maintenance — insulate your walls and attic, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and insulate water lines that run along outer walls. When temperatures drop, keep water taps slightly open so they drip continuously, and keep the cabinets under sinks open to allow warmer air in.

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have the chimney or flue inspected each year. Make sure your house has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and test them monthly.

Check your emergency supplies and ensure that you have adequate food and water, along with a battery-powered radio, in the event of an extended power outage. You’ll want a week’s worth of supplies, or more if you live in a remote area.

Never use gas-powered generators or barbecue grills indoors. These can allow deadly carbon monoxide to build up.

  Preparing your car

Have your vehicle serviced according to manufacturer recommendations. Check the antifreeze level.

Keep the gas tank near full, which helps avoid ice in the fuel lines and the gas tank itself.

Replace wiper fluid with a wintertime mixture.

Make sure your tires are in good shape and have the proper air pressure.

Check to confirm your battery has a good charge, your heater and defroster are working well, and that your emergency lights are functional.

  Preparing yourself

Always wear temperature-appropriate clothing, such as hats, gloves, scarves, etc. Remove any wet clothing immediately. And keep spare clothing in your car trunk throughout winter in case you are stranded or stuck.

Stay hydrated. You might think this is more important when it’s warm outside, but it’s just as vital in winter.

Be mindful of physical exertion and the amount of time you’re spending outdoors. Shoveling snow is hard work, so don’t overdo it!

 Get your house, car and body ready, and have a great season!

Contact Us!

At Katzbach Insurance, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 440-835-1770 or send us an email at [email protected].  We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

 www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Fall Flowers!

Hope you are having an excellent Fall Season!  Here is our office fall flowers! Thanks Gales Westlake Garden Center for the great selection!

                                                                                                                                                           www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Fall Home Maintenance Tips

10 Things to Do to Prepare Your Home for Fall

Fall is a wonderful time in Ohio— if your home is ready for it.  Yes, this is the time of year to fix small problems before they become big, and big ones before they become catastrophic. Here are 10 tips to help:

 1.       Look up. Examine your roof closely. Remove moss, clear debris from your gutters and downspouts, and repair any damage.

2.       Look down. Check for signs of animals and insects around your home and garage, including in the basement and crawlspace. Bring in a professional to get rid of unwanted guests.

3.       Keep things warm. Heat escapes through leaks around windows and doors, so seal up any drafty areas. Outside, put covers over faucets before temperatures drop.

4.       Keep things dry. Drain outdoor hoses, faucets and irrigation systems. Look in the basement and crawlspace for wet spots. And, make sure your water heater or boiler isn’t leaking.

5.       Clear the air (or vents and filters, at least). When’s the last time you checked your dryer vent? You should take a look at attic vents and exhaust ducts, as well. And, change that furnace filter!

6.       Take a walk. Cracks in your driveway or walkways will only get bigger, so get them fixed soon. If your deck has signs of wear, make repairs now.

7.       Get a tune-up. You or a professional should clean and tune your furnace, boiler and/or water heater, as well as your oven and range.

8.       Don’t play with fire. Before building your first fireplace fire of the season, check for soot or creosote build-up.

9.       Don’t play with fire extinguishers, either. But, check them to ensure they still have pressure. Don’t have fire extinguishers? Put them on your shopping list, ideally one for each floor.

10.   Don’t forget those smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. Replace batteries when needed, and test regularly that alarms are working.

  Keeping your home insurance policy in tip-top condition is smart, too. Remember to check in with us at least once a year to update your policy so you’re covered for your new remodel, additions or personal possessions.

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

5 Life Insurance Tips For New Parents

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! Parenting is a crazy, amazing experience. As a new parent, your life will never be the same — and neither will your insurance needs.

You’ll want to protect your little bundle of joy forever. This is why life insurance is so important for parents. It provides a financial safety net in case you’re no longer there to provide for your child. And even if you already have a life insurance policy, your needs change greatly once kids are in the picture.

Here are some things to consider and tips for purchasing life insurance as a new parent.

1. Consider permanent and term life insurance… and know the difference. There are two main categories of life insurance: permanent and term. Permanent life insurance offers lifelong coverage, while term life insurance provides coverage over a set time period. For parents, it may be wise to purchase a permanent policy and then add term insurance during your kids’ dependent years. This allows you to have a strong coverage foundation, plus some extra protection to ensure that your children will have what they need.

2. Think about education expenses. It may seem too soon to be thinking about education expenses for a child who can’t even walk yet, but it’s important to consider these costs when determining your life insurance policy. We all want our kids to have the best opportunities possible. Factoring education expenses into your life insurance can help ensure that they will have the same opportunities even if you aren’t around.

3. Stay-at-home parents need life insurance, too. Stay-at-home parents may not earn an income outside of the home, but consider what it would cost to replace everything that they do. The loss of a stay-at-home parent may mean that the surviving parent will now need to cover childcare and other expenses, which can rival the cost of college tuition.1 Purchasing life insurance for a stay-at-home parent can help cover these costs and relieve some of the financial burden on the surviving parent.

4. Don’t designate your minor child as your beneficiary. Yes, you’re buying the policy so your kids have financial protection, but it can be a big mistake to designate a minor as your beneficiary. A better option would be to set up a trust or designate an adult, like your spouse or a close relative, to oversee the distribution of money to the minor.

State regulations may limit if or how much a minor child can receive in life insurance proceeds, so they may have to wait to receive the life insurance benefits until the court appoints a guardian to administer the funds. This can take quite some time and typically requires multiple court dates.

5. Speak with an independent agent. An independent agent can help you find the best life insurance coverage, for the right price. Your agent can provide quotes from multiple carriers, discover discounts and work with you to determine your exact life insurance needs.

This article is not intended to be used, nor can it be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding U.S. federal, state or local tax penalties. It is written to support the promotion of the matter addressed here. Grange Life Insurance Company does not provide tax, accounting or legal advice. Any taxpayer should seek advice based on his/her particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

References: 1 - Business Insider

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Things to Consider When Buying Life Insurance

Purchasing life insurance is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. Not only does it protect the loved ones you’ll leave behind, it can be a useful tool well before then. While there are many things to take into account when purchasing life insurance, check out our list of some of the first five things to consider.

1. Decide how long you need coverage. Life insurance is designed to either last a certain period of time (called term life) or a lifetime (including whole life and universal life). If you only need insurance for a specific period of time (say, when your kids are growing up or for the length of your mortgage), then consider term. If, however, you need life insurance for as long as you live (for things like burial expenses or income replacement for a spouse), consider permanent coverage.

2. Calculate how much life insurance you need. One way to determine the costs you’ll leave behind is through the “DIME” method. DIME stands for: 

D - Debt (mortgage, private student loans, car loans, credit cards, etc.)

I - Income replacement (Consider the life expectancy of your spouse, dependents or anyone who depends on your income. Do you want to replace your income for the rest of their lives?)

M - Mortality (burial wishes and costs)

E - Education (Do you want to fund education expenses for your dependents? What about childcare? If you have children in daycare, do you want your policy to pay for their remaining years in daycare?)

3. Think about other objectives. Some permanent life insurance policies can be used as savings. Permanent life insurance policies are lifelong and have cash value that’s meant to increase over time. These permanent policies contain a death benefit (or face amount), which is the amount paid at the time of death, and a cash value that grows over time on a tax-deferred basis, similar to retirement or tuition savings plans. 

4. Name a beneficiary. Your life insurance beneficiary is the person or entity who will receive the proceeds of your life insurance policy. When choosing a beneficiary, avoid naming a minor child (children may not be able to receive funds) or your estate (it could have tax implications). If the policy is to benefit your business, you may want to have a formal plan in place for how the proceeds should be used. 

5. Talk with a trusted advisor. When you’re ready to purchase life insurance, you need someone with your best interests in mind who can guide you through the process. 

This article is not intended to be used, nor can it be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding U.S. federal, state or local tax penalties. It is written to support the promotion of the matter addressed here. Grange Life Insurance Company does not provide tax, accounting or legal advice. Any taxpayer should seek advice based on his/her particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

All life policies are underwritten by Grange Life Insurance Company, Columbus OH, or Kansas City Life, Kansas City, MO, and are subject to underwriting approval. Not available in all states.

References: -Insurance Information Institute

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Back to School

As kids head back to school, let’s keep them safe

The end of summer means many things, such as cooler weather, shorter days and ... the start of football here in Ohio!

But most important, it means kids are headed back to school. And that means we all should be extra careful on the roads, in school zones and around buses. Remember to watch for bikes, too! Here are some tips for both parents and kids to make sure everyone stays safe.

 Use caution on the roads 

There are going to be a lot more kids on the sidewalks and streets when school starts, so take it slow and always be aware of your surroundings. That’s good advice for all situations, of course, but be extra cautious around the times when school starts and ends for the day.

Watch out for school zones! They’re usually easy to spot, as many have flashing signs indicating a slower speed limit.

Remember to follow school-bus rules. You aren’t allowed to pass the bus on either side of the road when the red lights are flashing. Even when the lights stop, make sure the coast is clear before moving on. Kids can move quickly and erratically.

Leave yourself extra time to make it to your destination. Whether you’re headed to work or dropping your child off at school, rushing is a recipe for disaster.

Be especially careful in school or child-care parking lots and loading zones!

 Teach kids to be safe while walking 

Just a few minutes spent explaining some basic safety rules to your child can help keep them safe when they’re walking to or from school. Young children should never cross streets alone, but if your child is old enough to walk with others, remind them to do the following:

Always use marked crosswalks when crossing streets and look both ways twice.

Do not assume that drivers can see you. Try to make eye contact with them, if possible, when crossing the street.

Watch for driveways when walking on the sidewalk.

Be aware of cars that are turning or backing up.

Never move into the street from behind a car or other obstacle. Don’t chase a ball, pet or anything else into the street.

Always use sidewalks and paths. If there is no sidewalk or path, walk facing traffic and as far to the left as possible.

 Help them stay safe on their bikes

Just as it’s important to help your children learn safety tips for walking to and from school, it’s important to teach bike safety, especially by setting good examples yourself.

Make sure your child wears a properly fitted helmet every time he or she rides a bike.

Before the bicycle is ridden, do a quick inspection to ensure it is working properly and reflectors are in place.

Show your kids how to ride on the right side of the road with traffic and to stay as far to the right as possible.

Encourage your child to walk his or her bike across busy intersections. Or better yet, choose a route without any busy crossroads.

Explain to your child why no one should ride on the handlebars.

Demonstrate the rules of the road by using proper hand signals and obeying traffic signs when you ride bikes together with your child.

Set curfews so your child is not riding a bicycle at dusk or in the dark.

Most importantly, supervise your children every time they ride until you are certain they have good judgment. 

We know you’re probably familiar with all of these good ideas, but everyone needs reminders. So take it slow, and let’s have a happy and safe school year!

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Amusement Park Safety

6 Safety Tips for Amusement Park Fun

The kids are itching to go someplace exciting for summer in Ohio, and nothing fits the bill like an amusement park – a classic staple of American fun.

However, unless you take some safety precautions, an amusement park or water park can also be stressful or even dangerous. So, brush up on these safety tips before the thrills begin:

  Follow the rules. Ignoring this tip is why most injuries occur in the first place. The rules are there for your safety, not to limit your fun, so be sure to observe and obey them. That includes any and all restrictions regarding age and height, as well as guidelines about physical conditions that may make it unsafe to participate. Listen to instructions from park employees, and keep arms, legs, feet and hands inside rides at all times. Finally, always use the provided safety restraints.

Educate your kids. Make sure they know how to behave safely, both on rides and in crowded public spaces.

If you’re at a water park, take special care. Children under 4 feet tall, and people who are weak swimmers, should wear life jackets. Know where lifeguards are, and signal them if you see anyone in trouble or struggling. Observe proper hygiene in and around the water. Use waterproof swim diapers, try not to get water in your mouth, shower before getting in any pool and so forth.

Have an emergency plan. Designate a meeting place in case anyone becomes separated from the rest of the group. Use a buddy system to ensure children are never alone.

Don’t overheat. Bring plenty of sunscreen (the waterproof kind if you’re at a water park) and drink lots of water during the day. Don’t forget to spend some time in the shade, too.

Know your limits. Be mindful of the health limitations of any people in your group, and check with the park ahead of time to see if they offer any special accommodations. Remember, kids can sometimes overdo it when they’re having fun, so build in time for regular breaks.

  Plan ahead for safety, and you can help make sure the only roller coasters on your trip are the ones you ride. Have a great time!

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

10 Road Rules for Driving With Motorcycles!

“Look twice, save a life” isn’t just a slogan—it’s solid advice. While safety should always be the main concern whenever you’re driving, when automobiles and motorcycles are sharing the road, it’s a good idea to be extra vigilant.

Remember, motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any vehicle on the roadway. It’s important for motorists to understand the safety challenges faced by motorcyclists, such as size, visibility and motorcycle riding practices, to know how to best respond to them.

Whether you’re the one operating the automobile or the motorcycle, check out our 10 tips for sharing the road to make sure everyone makes it to their destination safely.

1. Share the road, not the lane. Although it may look like there’s enough room in a single lane for both an automobile and a motorcycle, remember the motorcycle needs the room to maneuver safely. Give the motorcyclist some space and don’t share the lane.

2. Increase your following distance for flashing turn signals. Self-cancelling turn signals didn’t become standard on motorcycles until the 1970s, and there are still a lot of motorcycles on the road today without them. When you see a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle, wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you attempt to pass it. If you notice that a motorcyclist has been driving with the turn signal on for a while, increase your following distance so that if it does turn, you’ll have enough time to react.

3. A minor annoyance to a motorist could be a major hazard to a motorcyclist. Motorcyclists may change speed or adjust their position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions, such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings and grooved pavement.

4. Remember that motorcycles react differently. Did you know that in dry conditions motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars? Allow more following distance so you have enough time to react in case the motorcycle makes a sudden stop since rear-ending a motorcycle can be fatal to the rider.

5. Look in all directions during left turns. Motorcycle crashes involving another motor vehicle continue to account for nearly half of all motorcyclist fatalities in the United States. Before you turn left, remember to look for oncoming traffic, especially motorcycles. Vehicle accidents involving the collision of a left-turning automobile and an oncoming motorcycle can be severe, as oftentimes the motorcycle T-bones the automobile while it’s in the left turn.

6. Treat intersections with special care. Many accidents that involve both automobiles and motorcycles occur at intersections. Always follow the safety protocol for intersections every single time that you approach one: come to a complete halt, view and obey posted traffic signs and signals, look both ways for approaching traffic and proceed slowly.

7. Check your blind spots. Motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see. With a smaller profile, it can also be difficult to judge the speed and distance of an oncoming motorcycle, particularly in blind spots. And, the shape and size of a motorcycle can blend into the images in your rear and side-view mirrors. Newer technology, including lane departure warning and blind spot detection systems, have helped with this issue but nothing beats the old fashioned over-the-shoulder glance.

8. Pass with care. When a motorist passes a motorcyclist, the gust of wind that follows could cause the motorcycle to become unstable. Always use your turn signal before changing lanes or merging to allow the motorcyclist to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position. When passing, make sure you are several car lengths ahead of the motorcycle before you return to your lane.

9. Keep weather in mind. Inclement weather has more drastic effects on motorcyclists than it does on motorists, particularly rain, snow and wind. Windy conditions can make it difficult for motorcyclists to control their motorcycle on the road, and precipitation like rain or snow can reduce everyone’s visibility and make motorcycles more difficult to see.

10. Help riders stay safe at night. You can help motorcyclists stay safe after dark by increasing your following distance, ensuring that your high-beams are turned off when you notice an approaching motorcycle and refraining from passing.

This article is for informational and suggestion purposes only. If insurance policy coverage descriptions in this article conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies.

References: - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) - United States Department of Transportation - Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Buying a car? Update your insurance

Buying a new car – it can be one of the most exciting and frustrating experiences all wrapped up into one. But once you find that perfect fit and sign on the dotted line, you might be eager to put all that stress behind you and drive off into the distance in your new ride.

Not so fast, speed racer.

Although a lot of your work is complete, it’s important not to miss a simple, but crucial step that new car buyers forget when wrapping up the car-buying process – updating and transferring your car insurance.

Whether you’re replacing an existing vehicle or purchasing a new car, use the steps below to make sure you and your new ride are fully prepared (and legal) to hit the road.

Step 1: Alert your insurance provider. So simple, but a crucial step. Unfortunately, there’s a common belief that the dealership will update your insurance agent, but many times that’s not the case. This causes an alarming gap in coverage for you and your new ride. To remove the guesswork, contact your insurance agent to let him know you’ll need to make updates to your auto policy.

To help during the transition, your insurance provider might have a grace period where they’ll cover your new car before it’s officially added to your policy. For example, depending on your level of coverage, Grange Insurance customers will have up to 30 days of coverage to give the purchaser time to work with their independent agent and make updates to their policy.

Pro tip: You can also reach out to your insurance provider ahead of time to start the process before you have the keys to your new car. Give the vehicle identification number (VIN) to your agent ahead of time. That way, you’ll have your coverage set from the moment you leave the dealership.

Updating your insurance to include your new car is important. Not only will you receive your new insurance ID card for your vehicle, but if you’re stopped by the police or get in an accident, your registration will be up to date and you’ll be covered appropriately.

Step 2: Review your coverage. While you’re in contact with your insurance agent, take this opportunity to update your auto insurance and make sure it’s still a good fit for your lifestyle.

With your new car purchase, are you also adding on a teen driver or a spouse to your policy? Do you need to increase the level of your coverage or add new coverage options?

Generally, if you’re exchanging an older car for a newer car, you’ll want to make sure all the new bells and whistles are properly covered too. Your independent insurance agent can help guide you so you have the right amount of coverage for your needs.

Step 3: Verify your changes. Once the process is complete, make sure you receive your new insurance ID card and properly dispose of your old one.

And, once your auto insurance is updated, you’ll want to double check that all your changes have been documented properly. Take a minute to review your updated policy once you receive it from your agent. Use this guide if you need help understanding your insurance policy or ask your independent agent if you need assistance. That’s one of the many perks of having an insurance expert on your side.

This article is for informational and suggestion purposes only. If the policy coverage descriptions in this article conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies.

References: - U.S. News & World Report

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Firework Safety

When Things go BOOM in the Night - Fireworks Safety

  For most of us, the Fourth of July is a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, having fun and creating memories - whether at home or away on vacation.

 But for some families, the holiday is a nightmare. Homes each year in Ohio are damaged by wayward fireworks. Thousands of people are injured in accidents.

  At Katzbach Insurance, we want your holiday to be happy, but also safe. So here are some tips to help you protect yourself and your property on the Fourth.

  Protecting yourself (and others)

To minimize the risk of injury, don’t use consumer fireworks. Attend a public display conducted by professionals in Cleveland or elsewhere.

If using consumer fireworks, always follow instructions. Do not attempt to re-light “duds” or create homemade fireworks.

Never let children handle or light fireworks. Even sparklers, which burn at more than 1,000 degrees, can cause third-degree burns. Kids under the age of 15 account for approximately 40% of fireworks injuries, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

A responsible adult should always be present when children - even teenagers - are around fireworks. More than half of fireworks injuries happen to those younger than 20 years old.

  Protecting your home

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the best way to protect your home is to not use fireworks at home.

Remember, fireworks can cause grass fires and other types of blazes as well. Make sure you light fireworks in a safe area, away from homes and buildings, as well as other combustible material. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency.

Look out for tree limbs or bushes that could catch fire. Trimming vegetation to keep it away from your home is a good idea anyway, but it could save you from a catastrophic fire on the Fourth of July.

If your gutters have accumulated leaves, pine needles or other flammable material, clean them before using fireworks near your home.

Finally, if you won’t be home on the holiday, ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your house if others in your neighborhood will be using fireworks.

  With some common sense and planning, the Fourth of July can be both safe and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re staying at home or heading on vacation, we hope you have a wonderful time celebrating our independence!

www.katzbachinsurance.com

440-835-1770

[email protected]

[katzbachinsurance]

Office Flowers!

Every year we plant flowers outside of our office. They are looking awesome this year!