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Tips To Prevent Frozen Pipes

Tips To Prevent Frozen Pipes

This Winter is forecast to be one of the coldest on record. Many homeowners and businesses will be experiencing frozen water pipes.

Low temperatures of 20 degrees and below can result in frozen or burst water pipes.

Here are some precautions to take when avoiding frozen or bursting pipes in your home:

– Keep your heat up to at least 60-65 degrees.
– Run faucets at a slow trickle.
– Seal any areas where there is a draft.
– Open up your cabinet doors to let heat into closed spaces.
– Remove hoses from outside yard faucets.

If your pipes DO freeze, it’s OK! Just because they are frozen it does not mean they will burst. Here is what you can do:

– Leave your faucets open and call a plumber.
– Do not use a torch or open flame to thaw a frozen pipe.
– Try thawing the frozen pipe with a hairdryer. Start with the pipe closest to the faucet and work your way to the coldest section.

In the event your pipes have burst, turn off the water at the main shut off valve and leave your faucets on. It’s important that every member of your home know where the main shut off valve is located.

For more information, the damages and repairs that are covered under your homeowner’s insurance due to a burst pipe, contact our Homeowners Insurance specialists at (516) 249-5200 or visit our website at www.chedwards.net

 

Insuring Your New Holiday Gifts!

Insuring Your New Holiday Gifts!

The presents have been opened and Santa is headed back to the North Pole to prepare for next year’s big trip.

Was Santa extra good to you this year? Maybe you received those diamond earrings you’ve been wanting or even your dream car!

No matter how big or small, let C.H. Edwards, Inc. help insure your precious holiday gifts.

We offer a wide variety of coverage’s such as:

  • Automobile
  • Motorcycle
  • Snowmobile
  • RV
  • Jewelry
  • Fur
  • Camera

and so much more!

Don’t know what coverage is right for you? Give us a call at (516) 249-5200 and let our specialists help in finding you the perfect policy or visit our website at www.chedwards.net.

For more information on the coverage’s, we offer or a free quotation, visit our website at www.chedwards.net.

C.H. Edwards, Inc. wishes you and your loved ones a happy and prosperous New Year!

 

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.

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

Planning The Perfect Family Picnic

Planning The Perfect Family Picnic

Taking the family on a picnic is an excellent way to get fresh air and enjoy some of the last days of the summer season before the kids head back to school. The ingredients for an unforgettable picnic, however, involve more than just good food. Picking a great location and preparing extra activities can elevate your picnic from boring to amazing.

Choose a memorable location. Having a picnic at a nearby park is a safe choice but choosing a location with interesting features can make your trip unforgettable. Try a local beach or hiking trail.

Work together on the food. Working with your family to create a menu for your picnic is a great way to get everyone involved and make sure everyone has something to eat that they really love.

Bring along activities. Picnics can be about more than just food. Bringing some outdoor activities with you is a great way to extend your outdoor trip and make it extra special.

Take plenty of pictures. A family picnic offers a great opportunity for some fun pictures together. Although smart phone pictures are easy to snap, don’t forget to take some pictures with your digital camera to print later.

Don’t leave home without the essentials. If you forget a few essentials items such as water bottles or sunscreen for everyone, your picnic may quickly turn from fun to disastrous. Prepare a checklist ahead of time to avoid forgetting anything.

End this summer season unforgettably before the hustle and bustle is back for the school year.

 

Renters Insurance for Your College Student

Renters Insurance for Your College Student

Do you have a child heading off to college this upcoming school semester?
If you do, now is the time to look into a renter’s policy to ensure the safety of their personal belongings.

Research shows that 60% of renters do not carry renters insurance. Many consumers think that they can’t afford it, or it’s not important.

The truth is renters insurance is one of the most affordable and most important policies to have when becoming a renter. The average cost of a renter’s policy is about $15 a month! That makes it easy and affordable for you and your hard working college student!

As a renter, you need coverage for your furniture and other personal belongings such as clothes, computer equipment, sports gear, art, jewelry and everything else you own.

Think about how much it would cost you to replace everything you own.

A Renters policy protects you if your covered property is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed regardless of where it is when the loss occurs, such as while you are moving it or even in another’s home.

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

 

Save Money While on Vacation

Save Money While on Vacation

Going on vacation often means indulging here and there on purchases. When you travel, you may want to be sure you are spending your hard earned money in the smartest ways.

Here are some suggestions on how to make your next vacation memorable and affordable!

Be flexible – Travelers who are flexible in their departure dates and times can usually find great deals and rates because they have the ability to shop price instead of date.

Pack light – Many airlines now charge extra for baggage fees, especially suitcases. Pack only the necessities.

Use coupons – Coupons aren’t only for getting cents off your brand tissue at the supermarket. Coupon and discount codes are available for just about any purchase – even vacations. Check all travel websites to see if there are any deals and specials going on when booking your trip.

Plan meals – Look into economical restaurants before departing. Know where you’ll be eating and when.

Rent small – If you are renting a car, choose the smallest model that will fit your needs. In addition, there is no need to pay for a large room that you don’t plan to spend much time in.

Consider public transportation – Investigate public transportation options near your destination. Such options may not be as convenient as taxis, but they may be more economical.

Make your next vacation unforgettable!