Monthly Archives: April 2017

Car Maintenance for Summer Traveling

Car Maintenance for Summer Traveling

School is out and road trip season is underway! Before hitting the open road, it is important make sure your car is in good condition for long travel.
Sticking to the maintenance schedule on your car keeps it running properly and protects you from expensive repairs.
Here are three of the top items to consider before packing your car and heading out of town:
  • Oil Change – this is probably the most important thing that you can do for your car. Skipping even one oil change can start damaging your engine.
  • Fluid maintenance – it is always important to top off all fluids, such as coolant, windshield washer fluid, etc.
  • Tire Rotation – tires can be very expensive to replace. Be sure to stop into your local mechanics shop and have them rotate your tires.
Fortunately, taking care of your car and preparing for road trips is easy. Following these basic steps will help insure a safe car and a safe trip.

 

 

Get To Your Destination Faster with some TSA Prep

Get To Your Destination Faster with some TSA Prep

Are you traveling anytime soon? If so, doing a little homework before you travel could save you some serious time at the airport!

For instance, visiting www.tsa.gov the transportation security administrations website can help you learn what items can be packed in carry on and which are best to leave in your check in suit case. You can also learn size requirements for toiletries that are allowed on planes and then find properly sized items in stores.

As a final tip, remember that all carry-on gels, liquids and aerosols need to be placed in a 1 quart, single zip-top, clear plastic bag.

For more information to help make your travel time faster visit www.tsa.gov.

Happy travels!

 

When Was The Last Time You Inspected Your Clothes Dryer?

When Was The Last Time You Inspected Your Clothes Dryer?

When was the last time you inspected your clothes dryer? Failure to do so can pose a safety hazard in your home. Performing a regular maintenance check on your dryer can help promote energy efficiency and keep your dryer running properly for years.

Here are some tips to help maintain your dryer:

  • Inspect dryer and dryer vents every two to three years and clear any dirt or lint buildup.
  • Replace plastic or vinyl exhaust hoses with rigid or flexible metal venting.
  • Clear outdoor vent trap from snow and other debris.
  • Clean the dryer filter after each use.
  • Dry full loads of laundry and you could save $7 each month!

When it is time to upgrade be sure to visit nationalgridus.com for the latest on rebates for energy efficient appliances.

 

Spring Season vs. Seasonal Allergies

Spring Season vs. Seasonal Allergies

The beautiful spring weather is finally here! However, for some people, the spring season is the start of allergies. Allergies are nothing to sneeze at, but you can make your home more comfortable for people who do suffer from seasonal allergies.

Cleaning some often forgotten places can help improve the air quality in your home.

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Vacuum once or twice a week to draw up any dirt, dust or pollen.
  • Clear your clutter. Stacked old boxes and other lingering items hold unwanted dust and allergens.
  • Keep your bathroom free of mold by scrubbing counter tops, toilets and shower tiles regularly.
  • Clean your sheets in hot water at least once a week to remove dust and allergens.
  • Do not air dry your laundry. Leaving your laundry out to dry will cause your clothing to pick up pollen.
  • Be sure to clean your outside entry ways to avoid pollen, dirt and other allergens from being tracked in.
  • Indoor air quality can make a big difference when it comes to someone suffering with allergies. Regular housecleaning can get rid of many allergy triggers and help relieve symptoms.

 

Why Do Auto Accidents Occur?

Why Do Auto Accidents Occur?

Automobile accidents are undesired, incidental and unplanned event’s that most of the time can be prevented.
On average there are 27,000 accidents each day across the globe!
You may be asking, so what are the main contributing factors to car accidents?

According to NYS Department of Motor Vehicle, here are the top 9 contributing factors to accidents:

  • Driver Inattention / Distracted Driving (19.1%)
  • Following too closely (17.4%)
  • Failure to yield right of way (15.7%)
  • Unsafe speed (10.9%)
  • Slippery Pavement (10.0%)
  • Improper passing or lane usage (5.3%)
  • Unsafe lane changing (4.3%)
  • Traffic control disregarded (4.1%)
  • Turning improperly (4.0%)

When you are behind the wheel, it is important to be safe. All of these factors leading to accidents are preventable.

If you have any questions in regards to road safety, please give C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call at (516) 249-5200 and our trained personal lines and commercial lines auto specialists will be happy to answer any of your questions.

Drive safely!

 

The Amazing Health Benefits of Running

The Amazing Health Benefits of Running

This past February, I ran my first 10k race. I ran the Disney Princess 10k in Orlando and it was an amazing experience. The road to the finish line included months of prep.

In this article, I am going to tell you my favorite tips on how to run your best race. After all it isn’t always about coming in first but enjoying your time while gaining amazing health benefits.

1. Make a plan. I found the easiest way to do this was by planning out my workouts so that overtime I would run longer and faster. I also found out that making my lunches on Sunday, not only saved time but guaranteed a healthy lunch every day.

2. Consistency is key. Although cheat days and rest days are necessary, they should be carefully planned. It`s best to use these days when your body is in need of it so that you can recharge. This makes it easier to refocus and still achieve your goals.

3. Make it social. You can do this by running with friends or join a running club. Find people who motivate you and push you towards your goals.

4. Train your mind. If you make diet and running a habitat then you can efficiently incorporate it into your daily life.

5. Keep your goals realistic. Gradually work up to running that full 10 k by adding on distance at a rate that’s best for you. Try a weekly calendar and write down your workouts and meals for each day.

With spring officially here, there are so many races and marathons happening all over Long Island. Some fun runs include the color run or there are also many races for charity. It`s never too late to make running a part of your life.

Written by: Sandra Costanzo

Helpful Tips For Your Next New Home Move

Helpful Tips For Your Next New Home Move

Every year, 12% of Americans move to new homes. The next time you are among the 12%, you may be able to save time, trouble and money when choosing a professional mover. By choosing a professional mover, you won’t have to worry about renting equipment and handling heavy bulky items all while being responsible if something goes wrong!

Here are six helpful hints to help with your next move:

  1. Be wary of the “guaranteed” estimates offered over the phone or online. Make sure you show the mover everything that needs to be moved, and get at least three estimates to compare.
  2. Check the company’s ratings with the Better Business Bureau and other consumer websites.
  3. Make sure all agreements are in writing and get a copy of everything you sign! Especially the bill of lading. Never sign any blank forms.
  4. Ask questions! If you do not understand something, make sure you have your mover explain everything in detail. Be sure to give your mover your cell phone number so that they can reach you at all times.
  5. Find a certified and insured professional mover.
  6. Last but not least, make sure that your new home is properly insured before moving in. Give an independent insurance agent, like C.H. Edwards, Inc. a call! We can help you with a new homeowners, condo, dwelling, or renter’s policy when it is time for your big move. (516) 249-5200.

Good luck!