Tag: safety

  • Getting Ready For Open Enrollment

    Getting Ready For Open Enrollment

    Health Insurance open enrollment 2016 dates that you should know.

    Are you ready for open enrollment? The first day to sign up for a health insurance policy through the Marketplace and open enrollment is November 1st, and your coverage can start as early as January 1, 2016.

    Along with the first day of open enrollment, there are a few other dates to mark on your calendar to ensure that you are able to get the right amount of health coverage to meet your specific needs, including:

    • December 15, 2015: the last day that you can enroll in a new plan or change your plan in order for your coverage to start on January 1, 2016.
    • January 1, 2016: the first day your new health insurance coverage can start if you enrolled on or before Dec. 15th.
    • January 15, 2016: the last day that you can enroll in a new health plan or change your plan in order for your coverage to start on February 1, 2016.
    • January 31, 2016: the end of the 2016 open enrollment. Any health plan changes that are made between January 16th and January 31st will take effect on March 1, 2016.

    Keep in mind that you have the chance to enroll in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) at any point in the year. You can also enroll in coverage if you have a qualifying life event, such as getting married, having a baby, or moving to a different state that does not offer the same health insurance plan that you are currently enrolled in.

    For all of your health insurance needs and to ensure that you have the right amount of coverage, contact the independent insurance professionals at Saks Insurance Agency in Mesa, Arizona. We will work with you to help you find the right policy that will meet your needs, all at the right price to fit your budget.

     

  • Safely Enjoy Halloween With These Simple Tips

    Safely Enjoy Halloween With These Simple Tips

    Halloween Safety

    Halloween is just around the corner, which means that it is time to put the finishing touches on your costume and make sure that you have enough candy for all the trick or treaters that come to your door. You should also take the time to make sure that you know how to stay safe while enjoying the holiday. Keep these Halloween safety tips in mind so the whole family can fully enjoy the holiday.

    • Establish a curfew for any older children who will be trick or treating with their friends. Let them know that if they are not home by their curfew time that there will be consequences.
    • Plan a route with your kids ahead of time. Choose streets that are well lit and have sidewalks to help them stay safe.
    • When choosing a costume for your child, make sure that it fits well so that they do not trip over it. If their costume consists of a mask, make sure that the eye holes are big enough for them to clearly see.
    • Before you allow your children to eat any of their candy, inspect each piece. Throw away any candy that is open or looks like it has been tampered with.
    • If you are driving on Halloween night, slow down and stay alert. Children get very excited about Halloween and can easily run out into the street with little or no warning.
    • Only cross the street at a designated crosswalk and obey all traffic signals and lights when crossing.

    Having the right insurance coverage this Halloween can help to make sure that you are protected from any issues that you may face. Contact Saks Insurance in Mesa, Arizona for all of your insurance needs.

  • Enjoy Back to School With These Tips

    Enjoy Back to School With These Tips

    Back to School Safety

    As fall gets closer and closer, you and your kids may be having torn feelings. While they are probably dreading going back to school, you may be counting down the days until you can drop them off for the day. While going back to school shopping, it is important to make sure that you know how to stay safe. Keep these back to school safety tips in mind this season.

    • Slow down when driving around school areas, since there will be many more people on the roads and on the sidewalk.
    • Keep in mind that while school is in session, the speed limit around schools is lower than other times of the day.
    • Follow all school bus rules on the road. You are not allowed to pass a bus on either side when the red lights are flashing. Even if the lights are not flashing, make sure that there are no children walking around before you drive by.
    • Give yourself extra time in the morning and afternoons to get to where you are going to ensure that you do not have to speed.
    • Always walk in marked crosswalks when crossing the street. Teach your children to look both ways before they go across the street.
    • Never assume that drivers see you when you are crossing the road. Make eye contact with the driver before you cross the street.
    • Always use paths and sidewalks instead of walking in the street. If there is no sidewalk to walk on, walk facing the traffic and as far to the left as you can go.

    All of us at Saks Insurance Agency in Mesa, Arizona would like to encourage you to keep these safety tips in mind to ensure that you and your kids have a safe this school season!

  • Texting and teen drivers: 5 things parents must know

    Your teen receives a text. Thumbs flash, head bends forward, eyes only on the tiny screen in hand; the urge to connect, nearly irresistible.

    It is hard to imagine your teen (or any other teen) not responding.

    But that is exactly what young drivers must do to help stay safe on the road.

    Considering teens’ desire for constant connection, that is not always happening. And the results are often tragic. In 2010, 11 percent of young drivers in fatal crashes were distracted; of that number, nearly one out of five were using cell phones, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    Here are five things that you can do to help prevent your teen from texting.

    1. Accept that your teen driver is more likely to text than an adult, and will do so in more risky situations, according to research from Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.
    2. Know the facts about the effect of texting. It may only take a driver’s eyes off the road for a few seconds, but that is the equivalent of traveling the length of a football field at 55 MPH without looking at the road, increasing the risk of crashing or nearly crashing 23 times, according to research from Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.
    3. Adopt a “coaching approach” to share these facts in regular conversations with your teen about their overall driving. Provide clear instruction, expectations and support. And consider putting it all in writing in a simple, parent-teen contract.
    4. Consider technology that can be installed in your vehicles to help you coach your teen to become a safer driver. The technology can help you learn about your teen’s driving habits. Some provide feedback when a driver brakes harshly – often the mark of a texting driver, suddenly refocusing on the road and spotting the rapidly approaching bumper of the car in front of them.
    5. And do not text while you are driving

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC., we can work with you to make sure you have the coverage that you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 480-545-1144 or send an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

  • THINGS THAT YOUR HOME INSURANCE WON’T COVER

    THINGS THAT YOUR HOME INSURANCE WON’T COVER

    Mold: The best cure for mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. If the basement floods after a rainstorm or a pipe is leaking, eliminate the moisture promptly, even a spill on the carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says homeowners generally can clean up mold themselves if the affected area is less than about 10 square feet. Otherwise, it is best to call in an expert.

    Flood Damage: water damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance, but flood damage is not. Flood by definition is a rising body of water.

    Sewer backup:  America’s sewer lines are rapidly aging, with some more than 100 years old. As more homes have been connected to these out-of-date lines, sewage backups have followed.  If you are worried about being unprotected, consider extra insurance that may be available as endorsements to your policy for risks such as sewer backups – sewer-backup damage often can be covered for an additional premium.

    Wear & Tear and Maintenance:  Your home insurance policy is there to get you back to where you were before a sudden, unexpected occurrence that does damage to your home. Wear and tear and regular maintenance issues do not fall under that category.

    Sinkholes: Sinkholes are sudden gaps in the earth’s surface that occur after groundwater gradually dissolves rock such as limestone and carries bits of it away, creating large pores and cracks in bedrock

    Termite infestation:  If these unwanted guests cause wear and tear to your home, do not expect your insurer to bail you out because homeowners policies do not pay for termite damage

    Intentional or criminal acts: (aka fraudulent claims)

    Puppy antics: If your new puppy uses your leather sofa or carpet as a chew toy or potty, your home insurance won’t pick up the tab for the damage.  There are no policies that cover damage caused by pets.

    Squirrels in the attic:  A squirrel is classified as a rodent, and damage by rodents is excluded under a standard homeowners policy

    Earth Movement:  If the earth moves and does damage to your home, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover you. Earthquakes and landslides are just two types of earth movement that are specifically excluded on home insurance policies

    Every insurance company is a little different and what is included or excluded on your policy depends on their rules as well as the type of policy you have.  It’s important to be aware of all exclusions on the policy and to prepare yourself by purchasing additional coverage to fill the gaps where needed. Read all of the fine print on your policy so that you aren’t surprised by an exclusion once it’s too late.

    At Saks Insurance, LLC., 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 480-545-1144 or send an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

  • Super Bowl XLIX Sunday, February 1, 2015 at University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

    Super Bowl XLIX Sunday, February 1, 2015 at University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

    Arizonians are super excited to be hosting Super Bowl XLIX, and welcoming football fans from all over the world.

    Super Bowl Sunday brings with it a whole host of activities for football fans, from game-day tailgates and sports bar outings, to friendly bets and Super Bowl parties. At Saks Insurance, LLC. we want this day to be both exciting and safe, so as you cheer your favorite team to victory, consider the following tips.

    • Keep it clean: Tailgating is one of America’s favorite pastimes! If you’re tailgating, opt for non-breakable, recyclable containers. This will make cleanup easier and help avoid injuries resulting from broken glass.
    • Be smart: Whether you are tailgating, hosting a football-watching party at your house in, sitting in the stands at University of Phoenix Stadium or joining your buddies at the local sports bar, know your limit and make sure you have a designated driver.
    • Know where you’re going: Pre-plan travel to and from the stadium to avoid getting lost and to make finding parking easier if you drive.
    • Fill those bellies: Whenever alcohol is consumed, make sure food is too!
    • Be weather wise: If you’re heading to the stadium, be sure to prepare for the weather. In colder temps, bring layers and blankets (especially if you’re bringing the little ones along).
    • Keep it close: Whether you’re hitting the live games or the local tavern, be sure to keep your valuables, such as wallets, mobile phones and purses, safe. Also, keep them close (better yet, attached) at all times to avoid theft.

    Wherever and however you’re watching the game, we hope you enjoy every last minute. Go team!

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC, we can work with you to make sure you have the coverage that you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

     

  • Backpack Safety: Are Your Kids Carrying Too Much?

    Backpack Safety: Are Your Kids Carrying Too Much?

    There’s always a mix of excitement and anxiety in the air as kids go back to school after Christmas break, but, these days, many students constantly feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. And it has nothing to do with worrying about making friends or remembering locker combinations.

    No, that weight is real, and it’s with them every day, right there in their backpacks.

    Tens of millions of kids wear backpacks every day, according to the American Occupational Therapy Association. Each year, thousands of injuries occur as a result of overloading and improper fit.

    So follow these tips from the American Chiropractic Association to help ensure your young student isn’t weighed down:

    • The 10 percent rule: It’s best if kids’ backpacks weigh no more than 5 to 10 percent of their body weight. The heavier the pack is, the more likely they will bend forward while carrying it, which isn’t good for their backs.
    • Get the right lift: The pack shouldn’t hang too low – never more than four inches below the waistline. A proper fit decreases the stress on the back and shoulders.
    • Two is better than one: Carrying a backpack by one strap shifts all the weight to one side and can lead to neck or muscle spasms. Be sure both straps are always in use, and that they’re also wide and well-padded. When a pack is comfortable to carry, kids are more likely to use it correctly.
    • Bigger might not be better: The more room in the backpack, the more kids will stuff into it. So find a pack that’s an appropriate size – not too big, and not too small.
    • Pack it well: You can distribute the weight more easily in a backpack that has individualized compartments. Be mindful of the area that will be against your child’s back, and avoid putting pointy or bulky objects there.
    • Ask for help: If you’re not able to get your child’s backpack down to a manageable weight, talk to his or her teacher, or an administrator at the school. Perhaps they can leave the heavier books at school and bring home workbooks or handouts instead.

    School can be tough enough without having to lug around a 30-pound pack. So make sure the only heavy lifting your students need to do is with their minds.

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC, 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 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

     

  • Be Careful When Playing With Fire   

    Be Careful When Playing With Fire  

    wood fireIt’s a great feeling to hang out with friends and family around a blazing fire in your backyard here in Arizona — unless, of course, that fire blazes a little too much.

    While a fire pit can be a wonderful addition to your home, all fires are potentially dangerous. So before you sit down with some marshmallows to roast, we here at Saks Insurance, LLC. have gathered up some tips to help you keep that fire in the pit (and away from everything else).

    Are you legal?

    • Before building or buying a fire pit, check the regulations in your area to learn about restrictions.
    • Your fire pit may be legal, but a fire might not always be. Monitor and follow community burn bans. Log on to http://www.maricopa.gov/aq/Default.aspx to check on the air quality in your neighborhood (or download the application  to receive air quality alerts on your smart phone)
    • Be respectful. Nothing can extinguish the good vibes of a nice fire more quickly than police complaints from smoked-out neighbors.

    What kind of pit do you want?

    • You can buy a fire pit or build one. If you choose the latter, there are plenty of resources online to help you design it. Don’t dig a hole just anywhere and throw some rocks down. Put some thought into it and you’ll have a better — and safer — spot to enjoy.
    • If you want convenience, a propane model might be right for you. They produce less smoke and have an adjustable flame.

    Ready to build your fire?

    Actually, you probably aren’t ready yet.

    • First, ensure the area under and around the fire pit is clear of flammable materials. Keep the pit itself at least 10 feet from any structures.
    • Before you start the fire, have a fire extinguisher or a garden hose handy.

    Okay, now are you ready to build your fire?

    • Choose hard, seasoned woods. Sparks from softer woods like cedar can increase the danger of igniting something nearby.
    • Don’t use liquid fuels, even lighter fluid, to get your fire going. And don’t burn paper, cardboard, leaves, garbage, etc.
    • If you have a metal fire pit, don’t overload it and always use the included safety screen.

    Is the fire out?

    • When you’re done, spread out the ashes and let them cool off for a bit. Then gently pour water or sand over them. Stick around for a little while to watch for flare-ups.

    We want you to have plenty of nice, warm nights — without getting burned. Here’s to making memories around the fire!

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC., we can work with you to make sure you have the coverage that you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

  • Tips to Help Keep Your Teen Driver Safe on the Road

    Tips to Help Keep Your Teen Driver Safe on the Road

    female driver looks out the car windowIt’s an exciting time in teens’ lives when they first begin driving, but it’s also an extraordinarily dangerous time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for kids and young adults ages 14 through 18.

    Despite this, the NHTSA says just 25 percent of parents have a serious talk with their kids about the key components of safe driving. So, with National Teen Driver Safety Week coming up October 19-25, here are five recommended rules to spell out before your teen gets behind the wheel:

    1. Absolutely no alcohol.
      There is no legal limit for alcohol when it comes to teen drivers. Having any amount of alcohol in their system is illegal for all those under 21, everywhere. On average, according to the NHTSA, 25 percent of deaths in motor vehicle crashes involve a teen driver with a blood-alcohol content of .01 or higher.
    2. Seat belts required.
      Drivers and passengers ages 16 to 24 historically use seat belts less often than other groups. Let teens know that seat belt use is non-negotiable. It’s the easiest way to protect themselves in a crash. And, set a good example by buckling up yourself.
    3. Never speed.
      Teenagers may like to push the limits, but the road isn’t the place to do so. Speeding doesn’t simply put them at risk for a ticket. It increases the risk of a deadly accident as well.
    4. No calls, no texts.
      It’s never a good idea for anyone to call or text while driving, but, because teens lack experience behind the wheel, distracted driving is all the more risky. Reaction times are slower when someone is distracted. Even worse, sending or reading a text means a driver’s eyes aren’t on the road.
    5. Only one passenger (or zero, depending on your state’s licensing guidelines for young drivers).
      As the number of passengers rises, so does the risk of a fatal crash, the NHTSA says. Think back to when you were a teen driver — how different were your actions when you had friends in the car versus when you were alone?

    Let young drivers know that driving is a privilege and that you’ll take away the keys if they don’t drive safely. Having regular conversations about safety, practicing driving together, and leading by example go a long way in ensuring your teen makes smart decisions when they get behind the wheel.

    But there’s another simple step you can take to get on the same page about your family’s rules of the road. Create a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement that puts your rules in writing to clearly set expectations and limits. Work with your teen to outline hazards to avoid and consequences for breaking rules.

    Keep it on the fridge and update it as your teen gains experience and more driving privileges.

    Link to Parent / Teen Driving Agreement http://www.cdc.gov/parentsarethekey/pdf/patk_2014_teenparent_agreement_aap-a.pdf

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC, 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 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

  • A Little Extra Caution Can Go A Long Way While Driving At Night

    A Little Extra Caution Can Go A Long Way While Driving At Night

    Road pirate goes fast through the city streetsSummer has ended, and while fall and winter have their own pleasures — and cooler temperatures — longer nights mean increased danger on the roads.

     

    You might think you drive just as well at night, but consider this: Even though nighttime driving accounts for just 23% of vehicle miles traveled, more than 50% of fatalities for vehicle occupants 16 and older occur between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., according to the National Safety Commission (NSC).

     

    Because we’re big advocates for safety at Saks Insurance, LLC., we thought it would be helpful to take a look at why night driving is more dangerous, and what you can do to decrease that danger.

     

    What’s dangerous about night driving?

    1. Decreased vision. We won’t go into all the biological details, but different parts of the eye (such as iris, pupil and retina) work differently at night. Your peripheral vision is actually slightly improved, but it’s more difficult to focus on objects ahead of you. And traveling between well-lit areas and darker roads creates issues as well.
    2. Driving too fast for your headlights. Depending on vehicle speed and headlight setting, many people “over-drive” their headlights. That means, by the time they see something on the road, it’s too late to stop in time to avoid it.
    3. Impaired judgment. Whether due to drowsiness or the use of alcohol or drugs, it appears that drivers at night often don’t use good judgment. According to the NSC, 66% of fatalities at night involve vehicle occupants who weren’t wearing seat belts.

     

    So what do you do?

    Sometimes, there’s no way around driving at night. So here are some tips to help you make a safe trip — whether you’re just running to the store, or you’re headed all the way to Flagstaff.

     

    Make sure your vehicle’s lights are in good working condition. And not just headlights, but turn signals, tail lights, etc.

    1. Avoid speeding. Leave a bigger cushion between you and other cars than you would during daylight hours. Leave yourself more time for the trip.
    2. Be more aware of your surroundings. You shouldn’t be using your phone, messing around with the radio or trying to find something on the floor while you’re on the road anyway — and distractions are even more deadly at night.

    Of course, if you’re not comfortable driving at night, the best thing is to avoid it altogether if possible. There’s nothing wrong with asking for a ride from a trusted safe driver or waiting for the sun to come out!

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC., we can work with you to make sure you have the coverage that you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

     

  • What to Put in Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

    What to Put in Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

    If a massive disaster wiped out power to your region right now, with no hope of recovery for at least several days, would you be ready? Would you have a way to connect with your family? Would you have enough nonperishable food for everyone? In short, do you have the right plan and supplies to get through an emergency?

    In the insurance business, we know a little something about helping people recover from disasters. And we know that a little preparation goes a long way. So here are some tips from the Red Cross, Centers for Disease Control and others on what you should put in an emergency preparedness kit for you and your family:

    • The big stuff: food and water
      At home, consider keeping a two-week supply of nonperishable food on hand in a safe, dry place. You might already have a head start on this, depending on what’s in your pantry. You also need a two-week supply of water, according to the Red Cross. That’s one gallon per person, per day. And don’t forget your pets. They’ll need their food and water as well. For evacuation situations, take a three-day supply of the above.
    • Safety items
      If the power is out for an extended period, you’ll need flashlights or battery-powered lanterns (with extra batteries). A portable, hand-crank radio will ensure you stay informed on the situation. A first-aid kit is also a must, along with at least a week’s worth of any medications that family members need. Emergency blankets and warm clothes are crucial if the weather is cold. And don’t forget personal hygiene items.
    • Paperwork
      You could be forced to evacuate, so it’s important to have certain things down on paper — for example, family and emergency contact information. You’ll also want to keep copies of personal documents, such as proof of address, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies.
    • Other items
      There are a multitude of other things you can include in your kit, of course. A multipurpose tool, extra cash and maps of the area are a few recommendations, along with games and activities to keep the kids occupied, if needed.

    Above all, consider the unique needs of you and your family when putting together your kit. Put everything in labeled containers that can be accessed quickly and carried if necessary. Once you’ve created your kit, check it once per year for expired items, including medications, and missing supplies.

    Of course, we hope you never have to use your kit. But it’s far better to have one you don’t need instead of needing one you don’t have.

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC, 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 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

  • Halloween Safety: 5 Questions to Ask to Keep Your Haunting Brood Safe on Halloween

    Halloween Safety: 5 Questions to Ask to Keep Your Haunting Brood Safe on Halloween

    Halloween in Arizona involves walking around at night amongst ghost, ghouls and witches, it really only takes a little common sense to make the night safe for everyone.

    Here are five questions to ask so your entire family, even pets, can enjoy a safe and fun evening of trick-or-treating or handing out candy to others:

    1. Are we visible?

    Add reflective tape to costumes, clothing and candy bags to make it easier for drivers to see you and your group. That also goes for pets who are tagging along. Put reflective tape or flashing lights on their leashes or collars. Carrying flashlights and glow sticks is a good idea as well — they make you more visible and help you see better, too.

    1. How safe are our costumes?

    Costumes, including masks and shoes, should fit well to prevent blocked vision, trips and falls. Baggy clothing can also increase the risk of contact with candles. If you purchase costumes, make sure they are marked as flame-resistant. And accessories such as swords and knives should be soft and flexible.

    1. Where are we going?

    It’s best to have a plan before taking your kids trick-or-treating. You should only go to known neighborhoods and houses that have outside lights on, and children should never enter someone’s home unless an adult is with them. If you have older children going out on their own, have them tell you their plan.

    1. What are the kids eating?

    It’s always a good idea to examine the items your kids have collected before they dig in. And it’s not just about tampering, either. Be aware of choking hazards, too, particularly for young children. And remember, when it comes to eating treats, moderation is key.

    1. How are Fido and Fluffy doing?

    Even if your dogs and cats are just hanging out at home while you hand out candy, don’t forget about them. They shouldn’t eat candy at all, but especially chocolate, which can be toxic. Make sure candles are placed in areas where they won’t be knocked down. And remember that, depending on your pet’s personality, having people constantly coming to your door can be stressful. You might want to create a comfortable spot for them away from your home’s entrance.

    With the right plan, you can make Halloween fun —and safe —for your little ghosts and goblins. And you can probably snag a little leftover candy for yourself, too.

    Contact Us!

    At Saks Insurance, LLC., 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 480-545-1144 or send us an e-mail to service@saksinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!