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The Gift of Life Insurance

The Gift of Life Insurance

The holiday season is officially here and people everywhere are shopping for the perfect gifts for their loved ones.

Why not give the gift of life insurance this holiday season? When you give the gift of life insurance, you are giving the gift of financial stability for the future.

When you purchase life insurance for someone else, the application will need that person’s name, date of birth, and often their social security number. You will also need to provide health information on the insured, even if you are buying a policy for a child.

Although there may be a few obstacles along the way, keep in mind that life insurance is the only financial product that guarantees financial stability for the future.

If you are interested or have questions regarding life insurance for you or a loved one, give us a call at 516-249-5200 and let us help your holiday wishes come true.

We wish you a very happy holiday season from the management and staff at C.H. Edwards, Inc.

 

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree This Holiday Season

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree This Holiday Season

The Thanksgiving Turkey has been carved and now it is time for the next holiday ritual – finding the perfect Christmas tree!

From Amityville to Montauk, Long Island has about a dozen tree farms where you can cut a fresh Christmas tree. These farms range from simple to full-fledged holiday extravaganzas.

So, whether you prefer a quick tree cutting errand or an all-day event, consider a visit to one of these farms.

Things to know before you go:

  • Dress appropriately. These farms are all in the open air and it will get chilly.
  • Some places do not take credit or debit cards. Go prepared with cash or check.
  • Be sure to bring your own rope in the event the farms does not provide any.

Farms to visit:

Huntington Town

Elwood Pumpkin and Christmas Tree Farm
1500 E. Jericho Tpke.
Open through Christmas Eve
Cost $12 – $18 per foot

Tilden Lane Farm
48 Wyckoff St. Greenlawn
Open weekends Nov. 26-Dec. 11
Cost $70-$80 per tree

Brookhaven Town

Carter Christmas Tree Farm
123 North Country Rd. Miller Place
Open weekends through Dec. 18th
Cost varies depending on size

Matt’s Christmas Tree Farm
305 Weeks Ave. Manorville
Open Nov. 25 – Christmas Eve, closed on Tuesdays
Cost $12-$16 per foot

Riverhead Town

Lewin Farms
Fresh Pond Ave. Calverton
Open Nov. 25th – late December
Cost $35 – $55 per tree

Southold Town

Dart’s Christmas Tree Farm
2355 Main Bayview Rd. Southold
Open November 25 – Christmas Eve
Cost varies

Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm
30105 Main Road. Mattituck
Open November 25 – end of holiday season
Cost: $75 per tree

Have a joyful holiday season!

 

How to Make Existing Windows More Energy Efficient

How to Make Existing Windows More Energy Efficient

The colder months are officially among us! Drafty windows in your home make it less comfortable for you and your family by allowing cold air to enter your home during these fall and winter months. Not only is this a cause for discomfort but it also has a negative impact on the environment.

Leaky windows require heating systems to work harder, therefore increasing energy consumption. You can help keep your home warm while being more energy efficient with a few of these helpful tips:

Caulk or add weather stripping. Small cracks and gaps around windows, which are most often found around windows in older buildings, might not seem like a big deal but can be the biggest reason as to why you have a draft! Fixing these small cracks will go a long way when it comes to keeping your home warm and saving energy.

Install window films. Plastic window films are another option for homeowners looking to keep their home warm and save energy. Heat shrink film can be cut to fit each individual leaky window in a home and help save you tons on energy costs.

Once you have sealed up the cracks and gaps in your window, be sure to open your curtains during the day time. The natural light shining in will warm your home up.

Drafty and leaky windows are bad for homeowners! Not only does it cause you to be uncomfortable but it can drive up your energy bill. Thankfully, there are options!

For information on homeowners insurance or how to save on your homeowners’ premium, give us a call at 516-249-5200.

 

Converting Your Home Heating System to Natural Gas

Converting Your Home Heating System to Natural Gas

Is it time to convert your home heating system from oil to a more affordable, reliable and healthier gas?

Natural gas home heating is much cheaper than oil. Not only is it cheaper, but it is clean, safe, efficient and a more dependable energy source because it is produced in the United States.

To begin the conversion process, contact PSE&G and ask them to recommend one of their reputable installers if you do not already have one.

The contractor can find out if there’s natural gas within 100 feet of your home so that you do not have to pay a connection charge.

Once this is determined, the contractor will remove the old boiler and oil tank if it is located inside your home. If your tank is located underground, it can be abandoned and will no longer be used to store fuel. In place of the old heating system, a gas boiler and a separate hot water heater will be installed. The last and final step would be a safety inspection of the new equipment.  This process can take some time, so make sure that you have enough of your current fuel source.

After that, you can enjoy a more affordable, safer, healthier and efficient way of heating your home.

Don’t forget to contact your insurance agent and advise them of your heating system updates.

For questions or more information on Homeowners insurance, please give us a call at 516-249-5200 or visit our website at www.chedwards.net

by Steven Visco

 

 

Transportation Network Companies

Transportation Network Companies

TNC/Ridesharing has become a popular trend over the past year. However, many consumers have unanswered questions when it comes to ridesharing and insurance.

What is a “TNC”?
TNC stands for “Transportation Network Company”. TNC’s are the companies that offer a ridesharing service. Companies such as Uber and Lyft are examples of popular “TNCs”.

What is “Ridesharing”?
Ridesharing is the use of a personal, non-commercial, privately owned vehicle to provide pre-arranged transportation to others. Passengers request a ride though the Transportation Networks app.

What is a “TNC Driver”?
A TNC Driver is someone who uses their personal, non-commercial vehicle to provide rides for others.

Who must provide insurance for the TNC Driver?
New York State law requires that a TNC provide primary insurance coverage for their drivers through a group policy. TNC drivers are able to obtain their own insurance but must meet the same insurance requirements as the TNC is required to provide.

What are the required minimum limits of insurance?
Bodily Injury Liability: $75,000/$150,000
Property Damage: $25,000
Uninsured Motorist: $25,000/$50,000
Personal Injury Protection $50,000

Will the TNC Driver’s personal automobile policy provide physical damage coverage?
No! The TNC driver’s personal automobile policy will only provide physical damage coverage if an insurer provides the coverage for a TNC drivers vehicle through an endorsement.

Is there an age and licensing requirements to become a TNC driver?
Yes, New York State law requires that TNC drivers must be at least 19 years old and hold a valid and current New York State driver’s license issued by the New York State DMV.

Are there any requirements to become a TNC driver?
Yes, the New York State DMV requires that the TNC conduct a criminal history background check along with a review of the applicant’s driving record. TNC’s must also verify that the applicants vehicles are properly registered and inspected.

If you are a TNC driver or are thinking of becoming one and have questions regarding your insurance, please give us a call at (516) 249-5200 and one of our automobile specialist will be happy to assist you.

 

#NewYorkCentralMutual

 

October is National Fire Prevention Month – Fire Prevention and Safety Tips

October is National Fire Prevention Month – Fire Prevention and Safety Tips

October is National Fire Prevention month. According to the NFPA U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 358,300 home structure fires per year during 2010-2014, which represents three-quarters of all structure fires. $6.7 billion in direct damage, or 69% of total direct damage in structure fires.

A tragedy can strike at any time. Preparing cannot only save your life but it can help save others.

  • Here are some tips that can help you when it comes to fires:
    Be sure all of your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
  • Don’t use candles. Wax with wicks are the most common fire starters among house fires.
  • Always have a fire extinguisher in an easy to reach place in the event of an emergency.
  • Make sure there is a smoke detector outside of each bedroom.
  • Avoid smoking inside your home. If you do smoke inside your home, use a metal canister with sand or water to put out cigarette butts.
  • Don’t overload electrical outlets or surge bars.
  • Prepare an evacuation plan with your family in the event of a fire. Be sure to have designated escape spots and a backup escape spots in case other spot are blocked from the fire.
  • Protecting yourself and your loved ones from fire is important. Preparing now and knowing the basics can help save a life.

If you have questions regarding possible fire damages to your home, please call C.H. Edwards, Inc. today at (516) 249-5200 or visit our website at www.chedwards.net.

 

Life Insurance Awareness Month: Policy Beneficiary

Life Insurance Awareness Month: Policy Beneficiary

No one likes to think about dying, but when it comes to life insurance, you need to figure out who will get your money when it is your time. It is important to know what a beneficiary is and how your life insurance policy works after you are gone.

September is life insurance awareness month and C.H. Edwards, Inc. is here to help you understand the basics of life insurance.

What is a Beneficiary? Beneficiary is a term in a life insurance policy contract that recognizes who receives the benefits after a person’s death. The primary beneficiary is the first person who receives the benefits after you have passed. If your primary beneficiary is deceased, your contingent beneficiary would then receive your benefits. A contingent beneficiary is also known as your secondary beneficiary.

How to choose your beneficiary? Choosing the right beneficiary is important, but can also be challenging. Consider who you want to help after you are gone. This could be a spouse, child, niece, nephew, etc.. In short terms, your beneficiary should be someone you can trust with your money after you are gone.

It is never too early or too late to purchase a life insurance policy. Nearly 40% of consumers in the United States do not have life insurance coverage. Don’t wait another day!

For more information on life insurance, please give us a call at 516-249-5200.

 

Hurricane Terms and Meanings: What To Look For!

Hurricane Terms and Meanings: What To Look For!

When it comes to hurricanes, there are many terms used to describe their levels of strength, and the effect one can expect with it.

Here is what to listen for:

Hurricane Watch: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified area in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone. During a watch, prepare your home and review a plan for evacuation in case warnings are issued.

Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that tropical; storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within a specified area within 48 hours in association with a tropical, subtropical or post tropical cyclone. During a watch, prepare your home and review a plan for evacuation in case warnings are issued.

Hurricane Warning: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified area in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance. The warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected somewhere within the specified area within 36 hours in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone.

Extreme Wind Warning: Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane (115 mph or greater), usually associated with the eyewall, are expected to begin within an hour. Take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure.

Be aware that additional watches and warnings are issued to provide detailed information on specific threats such as flood and tornadoes. Local National Weather Service offices issue flash flood/flood watches and warnings as well as tornado warnings.

For more information on what damages are covered under your homeowners insurance due to a hurricane, please give us a call at (516) 249-5200.

Please be advised, flood damages are not covered under your standard homeowners insurance policy. A separate flood policy would be necessary. Call TODAY for a free quotation.

 

Do you have a family emergency plan?

Do you have a family emergency plan?

Everyone needs to be prepared for the unexpected. You, as well as your family and friends, will most likely not be together when a disaster strikes. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children or parents are safe?

Here are steps to take before a disaster happens to ensure you and your loved ones will be safe:

  • Post emergency telephone numbers near the phone.
  • Install safety features in your home, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.
  • Inspect your home for items that can move, fall, break or catch fire and correct them.
  • Have your family learn basic safety measures such as CPR and first aid, how to use a fire extinguisher and also how to turn off the main’s to your gas, water and electric in your home.
  • Teach children how and when to call 911 in the event of an emergency.
  • Prepare an emergency supply kit. Here are some important items to consider:
    • At least a 3-days’ supply of water (one gallon per person per day).
    • At least a 3 days’ supply of non-perishable food.
    • One change of clothing and shoes per person.
    • One blanket or sleeping bag per person.
    • First aid kit.
    • Batteries.
    • Emergency tools.
    • Flashlight.
    • Extra set of car keys.
    • Credit card and cash.
    • Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members.
    • Prescription and non-prescription medications.

Last but not least, practice and maintain your plan with your loved ones.

 

 

 

Tips for Cleaning Your Grill

Tips for Cleaning Your Grill

It’s that time of year again, where your dinner and party plans have you heading to your kitchen instead of the grill.

Before you shut down and pack up the grill for the season, it is important to clean your grill to prepare it for storage and next year’s use.

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Use a warm bucket of water and soap with a steel brush to clean your grill.
  • Avoid using abrasive cleaners and tools. This could reverse your essential goal and harm your grill!
  • Clean up all oil spills and food drippings.
  • Once you have scrubbed all of the dirty areas, be sure to wipe everything down one more time with your warm soap water.
  • Purchase a protective case/cover for your grill. This will help avoid damage and rust over the winter months.
  • Store your grill somewhere safe and dry. Perhaps your shed or even under your deck.

Simple end of the year cleaning will go a long way when it comes to ensuring the life of your grill.