Fireworks and celebrating the Fourth of July Holiday Safely

Fireworks and celebrating the Fourth of July Holiday Safely

This year fireworks season started early. Non-professionals have been using fireworks for a long list of reasons.  Local authorities will be on heightened alert due to this so please proceed cautiously if you decide to use fireworks this holiday and keep our pets and people with special needs in mind.

Using fireworks on the Fourth of July is a tradition. Many people forget though, that fireworks can be very dangerous if used or handled incorrectly. Every year, hundreds of people including small children are injured due to unsafe firework use. This year celebrating our Independence can be safe if a few common-sense rules are followed:

  • Have a designated shooter to organize and shoot all the fireworks.
  • A responsible ADULT should be supervising all firework activities as well as keeping an eye on children.
  • Guardians should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
  • Drinking while shooting fireworks is NOT a good mix. Save the alcohol for after.
  • Use fireworks outdoors where there is a clear area. Keep away from trees, cars and houses.
  • Do not carry fireworks in your pockets; this could cause a serious injury.
  • Wear safety gear while lighting and shooting fireworks. Safety glasses, safety gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants will help prevent burns.
  • Always have water available and ready when you are using fireworks in case of a fire.
  • Never relight a “dud” or already used fireworks. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Soak used fireworks with water before placing them in your outdoor trash can.

 

Ensure your safety as well as others around you, by simply observing local laws and using good judgment and common sense.

As a reminder, the use of fireworks by an amateur is illegal in The State of New York. If you are using fireworks and cause damage to yourself or your property, this will not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance.

  • If the damage is caused to your property by another person’s fireworks, there is coverage for this event on your Homeowners policy.
  • Sparklers and party poppers are considered legal fireworks and damage to your property would be covered in the event of this accident.

 Have a Happy and Safe 4th of July holiday from our C.H. Edwards, Inc. Family to yours!

by Denise Visco

What is a Notary Public?

What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public (sometimes called a Notary or a Public Notary) is an individual authorized by the state or local government to officially witness signatures on legal documents, collect sworn statements and administer oaths.  A notary public uses an embossing tool to verify his or her presence at the time the documents were signed.  Most states issue a unique identifying number to each notary public in order to prevent fraudulent use of the embosser.

An attorney or other public figures can be granted notary public status, but no legal training is required to apply for the position.  Certain legal documents are required to be “notarized” in order to be recognized in court, so a notary public spends most of his or her time observing routine signatures.  Due to the fact that identities are so critical, a notary public may also spend some time verifying the names of the parties involved in the signing.  Generally, all parties provide some form of official identification (Driver’s license, birth certificate, passport, etc.) in order for the notary public to feel comfortable about certifying the signatures.

A qualified notary public should have a high level of integrity and respect for the legal process.  Several organizations offer courses on the legal and social aspects of becoming a notary public.  Notaries can not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, creed or religion.

C.H. Edwards, Inc. has a licensed notary on staff and we offer this service to our clients Free of Charge.  This is just an added benefit of choosing an Independent Insurance Agent.

Do not hesitate to come in and take advantage of the opportunity should the need arise.

Keeping your Skin Healthy in the Winter

Keeping your Skin Healthy in the Winter

Keeping your Skin Healthy in the Winter
 
Winter weather is not the best for your skin. Cold weather and low humidity levels result in dry air that steals moisture from your skin. Indoor heat, hot showers, and harsh cleansers also reduce moisture in your skin. This lack of moisture leads to chapping, redness, itching that is just plain uncomfortable. What can you do to try to beat these conditions and keep your skin healthy this Winter? Try some of these tips.
 
1. Wash with Lukewarm Water
 
Hot Showers and baths feel good, but when washing your hands or face choose lukewarm water to avoid stripping too many oils from your skin.
 
2. Moisturize as much as possible.
 
Keep moisturizer with you at all times and also keep it located in the bathroom near your sink and shower so it is available to use liberally every time you wash.
 
3. Choose Moisturizers Carefully
 
Some over-the-counter moisturizers have petroleum-based ingredients that can actually further dry your skin in winter months. Be sure to find a formula that has natural, nourishing ingredients. Look for something oil based rather than a water-based solution. Look for hydrating ingredients like lavender, chamomile or jojoba which help to soothe dry, itchy skin.
 
4. Protect your skin
 
Wear gloves and scarves. Don’t forget sunscreen. Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer.
 
5. Exfoliate
 
Moisture can’t get in if dead skin cells are plentiful. Find an exfoliating mask that you can use on your face, hands, and lips then follow up with a moisturizer. Exfoliating body washes are also helpful in winter months.
 
Try some of these tips to help keep that healthy glow all winter long.
 
The tips offered in Wellness Wednesday are suggestions for keeping healthy and do not replace the advice of a physician.
 
by Denise Visco
 
For more information on insurance, visit our website at www.chedwards.net
 
#WellnessWednesday #Winter #HealthySkin #Health #SelfCare #LongIslandInsurance #Auto #Home #Business #Life #Flood #CHEdwardsInsurance #FarmingdaleInsurance #ViscoFamilyInsurance #WadingRiverInsurance #StevenVisco #DeniseVisco
Do you know what the slowdown and move over laws mean?

Do you know what the slowdown and move over laws mean?

Insurance Tip Thursday
 
Do you know what the slowdown and move over laws mean?
 
Your driving and see emergency vehicles with flashing lights coming up behind you or stopped alongside the road as your passing, what do you do?
 
Under NYS law, drivers must exercise due care when approaching vehicles that have their emergency lights illuminated. On highways, that includes moving out of travel lanes next to shoulders, if possible.
 
There are versions of the Slow down, move over law in all 50 states. If you are unaware of your states law, visit DrivingLaws.AAA.com.
 
For more information on Auto, Home, Business, Life or Flood Insurance visit our website at www.chedwards.net
 
by Steven Visco
 
#InsuranceTipThursday #SlowDownMoveOver #ItstheLaw #All50States #AAA #LongIslandInsurance #StevenVisco #CHEdwardsInsurance #Farmingdale #ViscoFamilyInsurance #WadingRiver