Retrieved from: ReserveAmerica, Thu Jul 8 2021
https://www.reserveamerica.com/articles/camping/top-10-tips-for-campfire-safety

Enjoying the pop and hiss of a glowing campfire—not to mention the light and warmth that the fire provides—is one of the most enjoyable parts of camping. But building campfires comes with responsibility. A campfire that is not properly built, maintained, and extinguished can quickly become a hazard to the people, animals, and land around it. In the United States, people start nearly nine out of 10 wildfires. It's important to understand how to safely and responsibly enjoy your campfire.

These are the top 10 must-know tips for campfire safety.














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​1. Know the rules

Before you strike a match, make sure you know the fire regulations of the campground or wilderness area in which you are planning to build a fire. Fire rules change, and a campground that allowed campfires the last time you visited my have a temporary ban on them if the risk of wildfires is high. Pay attention to posted signs and check the ranger’s station for current campfire regulations.

2. Use the pit

Most campgrounds provide a fire pit or fire ring in which to build a campfire. If a pit is provided, this is the only place you should build a campfire. If you're in a remote area where campfires are allowed but a pit is not provided, dig a fire pit in an open area away from overhanging branches, power lines or other hazards that could catch on fire. Once the pit has been dug, circle the pit with rocks, ensuring there is a ten-foot area around the pit that is cleared of anything that could catch on fire.

3. Build a safe campfire

Once your pit is in place, build a safe campfire. Start the fire with dried leaves or grass that will easily catch fire. Next, add kindling, small twigs and sticks that are less than an inch in diameter. As the fire builds, add the largest pieces of wood to the fire. They will keep the fire burning for a longer period of time and provide heat. Keep in mind that your fire does not have to be roaring. A small fire surrounded by rocks will produce plenty of heat for both cooking and warmth.

4. Mind the match

Start your campfire with a match and then make sure it is completely extinguished before disposing of it. Pour water over the match or throw it directly into the fire to burn. Never use lighter fluid, gas, kerosene, or other flammable liquids to start a fire.

5. Use local firewood

Though it may not be apparent to the naked eye, tree-killing insects and diseases can live on firewood. If you’re going camping six hours down the road and decide to bring firewood from home you could, without knowing it, transport insects and diseases and inadvertently introduce them into the forests where they weren’t found before. That’s why it’s so important to use local firewood. Local is defined as the closest convenient source of firewood that you can find. If possible, pick up firewood from the campground camp store or a nearby location.

6. Keep water handy

Don’t start a campfire without having a bucket of water and a shovel nearby. The water can be used to douse any runaway flames and the shovel can be used to throw sand or dirt on any flames that jump the perimeter of your fire ring.  It’s also smart practice to keep a few feet of ground outside of your fire ring watered down, so if a stray ember or flame jumps outside of your fire pit, it won’t gain any traction.

7. Pay attention to the wind

A strong breeze can spread your fire in an instant. To make sure a sudden gust of wind doesn’t turn your campfire into a wildfire, keep anything flammable, including unused firewood, upwind and at least 15 feet away from the fire. The 15-foot rule also goes for your tent and clothing hung to dry.

8. Be careful with kids and pets

It’s not just the risk of forest fires that you need to be mindful of while camping. Campfires are the leading cause of children’s camping injuries in the United States. Teach your kids about the danger of fire and don’t allow children or pets around the campfire unless they are on an adult’s lap. Teach kids how to stop, drop, and roll in the event that their clothes catch on fire.
 
9. Never leave a campfire unattended

A campfire should not be left alone, even for one minute. A small breeze can spread fire quickly, so there should be at least one set of eyes monitoring the fire at all times. Even if you’re leaving the fire for a short period of time, like to take a quick hike, the fire should be completely extinguished. You’ll be able to restart it once you return.

10. Put the fire out properly—every time

When you are done with your campfire make sure it is extinguished properly. Dump water on the fire, stir the ashes with a shovel, then dump more water on the fire. The campfire should be cold before you leave it unattended. If it is too hot to touch, then it is too hot to leave. Large logs will be more difficult to extinguish than smaller logs so make sure they are also soaked with water. Move the stones around the campfire to check for hidden burning embers underneath. And never bury coals from the fire—they can smolder and start to burn again.

Retrieved from: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/bad-highway-driving-habits-pet-peeves

by Justin Metz on May 23, 2022

When the United States Interstate Highway System was created in 1956, it transformed the way Americans traveled. Upon its completion, these new freeways allowed us to drive cross country for the first time, covering hundreds of miles between stops.

But over time, the same elements that make highway driving so convenient – namely high speed limits and the elimination of intersections – have also resulted in some bad habits.

At best, these highway driving mistakes are an annoyance to other drivers. And at their worst, they can put others in danger, leading to accidents and serious injuries.

Below is our list of the 16 biggest mistakes people make when highway driving.
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1. Driving slow in the left lane. While laws differ slightly from state to state, the left lane of a multi-lane highway is generally reserved for faster traveling vehicles. That means unless you’re passing or traveling faster than the flow of traffic, you should keep your car to the right. Driving slowly in the left lane can cause traffic buildup and may even encourage drivers to take more dangerous maneuvers to overtake you (like passing in the right lane or shoulder).
2. Driving when tired. This may seem obvious, but we drive at our best when we’re awake and alert. When you’re tired, your driving suffers. In fact, studies have shown that being awake for more than 18 hours can make you drive like you have a blood alcohol level of .05 (close to the legal limit)! Not only does driving when tired slow your reaction time, but you may also fall asleep behind the wheel – which causes thousands of crashes each year. So if you’re feeling tired, stop for a cup of coffee or pull over for a quick nap. 
3. Not taking breaks on long trips. You don’t need to be short on sleep for fatigue to set in. This is especially true on long road trips, when driving for hours on end can make you feel tired and less alert. So don’t let a desire to reach your destination quickly put others at risk. Stop and take a short break every few hours. This will give everyone a chance to stretch their legs and can help you stay more alert behind the wheel.
4. Staying in a truck’s blind spot. Commercial trucks are big vehicles. Because of their size, they have big blind spots, too. That’s a term for the area a driver can’t see by looking through their window or mirror. If you’re travelling in a truck’s blind spot, the driver may not realize you’re there – which could cause them to accidentally hit you. To avoid driving in a truck’s blind spot, follow this rule of thumb: If you can’t see the driver in his side mirror, he can’t see you either.
5. Speeding. On most highways in the U.S., a speed limit will be set somewhere between 55 and 80 miles per hour. Driving in excess of the posted limit may not only earn you a speeding ticket – it could jeopardize the safety of yourself and other drivers. Our 2021 survey revealed the top 5 reasons why drivers admit to speeding.
6. Relying only on safety systems (and not your eyes and ears). High-tech vehicle safety systems get more and more advanced with each new model year. Adaptive cruise control. Automatic emergency braking. Lane keeping assist. Blind spot monitoring. The list goes on… Each of these systems is designed to prevent accidents and keep drivers safe. And for the most part, they do an amazing job. But this can result in drivers relying too much on their cars to do the driving, braking and accelerating for them. Remember, these systems aren’t always perfect, and they aren’t designed to reduce your responsibility behind the wheel.
7. Not using your turn signals. When changing lanes on the highway, the law requires you to always use your turn signal. But it’s not uncommon to see vehicles zipping from lane to lane without signaling. Using your turn signals helps prevent accidents by letting other drivers know – and plan for – your movements.
8. Keeping your brights on. On dark, remote highways, visibility becomes especially important. Turning on your high beam headlights will allow you to see further down the road, adding upwards of 300 feet to your visibility. Not only does this aid in navigating the road ahead, but it can help you avoid hitting an animal, like a deer. However, keeping your high beams on with other drivers on the road can become a blinding safety hazard. Don’t let your headlights put others at risk. Only use your brights when other vehicles are at least 500 feet away.
9. Not yielding to oncoming traffic. While highway driving eliminates stoplights and intersections, you’ll still need to deal with vehicles merging on and off the road. When a car is approaching from an on-ramp, try to be aware of oncoming traffic and give them room to merge into your lane. In most states, the vehicle on the highway has the right of way. But adjusting your speed (or better yet, moving over to another lane) to allow another vehicle to merge safely can reduce the chance of an accident.
10. Not using your mirrors. When switching lanes on the highway, you should always check your mirrors and blind spots before making a move. Be on the lookout for nearby vehicles, including those that may be quickly approaching on either side. Fail to do so, and you could find yourself turning into the path of another vehicle.
11. Tailgating. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions make up nearly 30 percent of all accidents. And tailgating, or following another vehicle too closely, is a major cause. Tailgating is especially dangerous on the highway because you travel such a great distance at higher speeds. That’s why experts recommend following the “three-second rule” – allowing a three second gap to pass an object after the car ahead of you does.
12. Road rage. When dealing with bad or inconsiderate drivers, it can be easy to let your anger get the best of you. But when road rage takes over, it can lead to an even more dangerous situation fueled by rash, aggressive behavior. So take a step back and relax. Put things into perspective. And if you encounter another driver exhibiting road rage, do your best to avoid or de-escalate any confrontation.
13. Poor passing etiquette. Have you ever tried to pass someone on the highway, only to have them accelerate and match your speed? This is an example of poor passing etiquette. When you’re passing another vehicle (or are being overtaken), make sure both cars have plenty of room to safely execute the pass.
14. Inconsistent speed. The best way to drive on the highway is to keep your vehicle at a safe, consistent speed. Using your car’s cruise control is a great way to accomplish this. Constantly speeding up and slowing down is not only an annoyance to other drivers, it can also impede the flow of traffic.
15. Hard braking. Smashing the brake pedal is an accident waiting to happen – especially at highway speeds. To avoid hard braking, always maintain a safe distance behind the car in front of you and keep your eyes on the road at all times
16. Distracted driving. We’ve all seen drivers cruising along the highway with their eyes focused on a phone instead of the road. It’s a behavior that causes thousands of accidents (and more than 3,000 deaths) each year. Avoid the temptation to use your phone while driving. Your safety is always worth the wait.

Getting the right protection is never a mistake

At Erie Insurance, our promise is simple: to be there when you need us. Whether taking the road less traveled or on your daily commute, you can count on us to provide the protection you deserve – at a price you can afford. Call us today to learn about car insurance from ERIE.

by Jenean McLoskey

Retrieved from: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/inspecting-your-home-after-winter.asp
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After what felt like an endless winter, everything is slowly starting to thaw out and melt. Spring is one of my favorite times of the year, and as a new homeowner, I am starting to observe new things on my home that I need to inspect, and projects I want to tackle this summer. I purchased my home in the dead of winter with snow piled up on the exterior, so I couldn't fully see everything as much as I would have liked. Now that I have a clear view, it's time to start my spring maintenance checklist and inspect for any damage sustained during winter.

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• Examine your roof. Inspect your shingles to see if any blew away or were damaged during winter. Shingles that are loose, cracked or buckled need to be replaced. If you come across any of these issues, call a professional to assess the damage.
• Check the gutters. Grab your gloves and clean out all of the leaves and debris in your gutters and downspouts. Then, inspect your gutters and make sure they aren't sagging. Make sure the downspouts are facing away from the foundation for proper draining.
• Inspect your driveway and other areas with concrete. Look over your driveway and sidewalks for any sign of cracks or movement. If you see any, you can fill them in with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk.
• Check the outside faucets and hoses. Turn on the water to make sure it's still running properly and place your thumb over the opening. If this stops the water flow, the water pressure may be too low and one of your pipes may be damaged. Call a professional for further assistance.
• Inspect windows and doors. Check for bent or broken hinges, and any cracks or holes. Depending on how serious the damage is, you can either replace or repair your door. If you have a screen door, you can usually buy a repair kit to fix any holes or tears so bugs can’t sneak through. If your windows look good, take the opportunity to wipe down the interior of the window sills if there is any dirt or mold present.
• Inspect your deck and fences. If you have a wooden fence, repair or replace any loose slats or rotted sections. For your deck, look for any signs of water stains or discoloration. Remove any loose or rusty nails, and make sure the railings and stairs are secure.
• Run your in-ground sprinkling system. Turn your sprinklers on to make sure they are working properly. Also look for any leaks or broken sprinkler heads, and readjust them if needed.
• Inspect your AC unit. Clean up any leaves or branches around the cooling unit, and change the filters. If you want a professional cleaning or a tune-up, you can call a qualified heating and cooling contractor.

Good luck and happy spring!

Written by: April Daniels

Have you ever heard the phrase "When it comes to insurance I have the state minimum? Or have you asked your insurance agent to make sure you had the "state minimum" coverage on your policy? What does that really mean? 

What is required?

In the state of Ohio you are legally required to have insurance to drive a vehicle.  The minimum required insurance coverage according to the Ohio BMV* is $25,000 for bodily injury/death of one person, $50,000 for bodily injury/death of two or more people, & $25,000 for property damage in an accident. To break this down even further bodily injury coverage is to protect you from a suit brought against you from a party that has had harm done to them in an accident.  It is important to note that even if you think the person has not suffered any injury it won't necessarily stop them from filing suit against you.  Property damage is coverage for another persons vehicle or property.

Why is this amount not enough?

The state minimum coverage in Ohio hasn't changed since December of 2013** and before that it had stayed the same for forty-four years.  One thing that has changed since 2013 is the rising costs of vehicles and hospital stays

Let’s look at just the bodily injury coverage on an auto policy.  Think about the last time you went to the hospital; how much was the total cost of your visit before health insurance?  According to healthcare.gov site***, the average cost of a 3-day hospital stay is around $30,000. If you were involved in an accident and the person you hit was injured and spent a few days in the hospital, you would exceed your limits of liability.  Also, the person you hit can also sue you for loss of wages or for pain and suffering. You could easily be well over the $25,000 limit your policy has coverage for. 

Now let’s look at the property damage portion of an auto policy.  Here is the Edmunds.com**** MSRP pricing on some common new cars you’ll see out on the road this year: 2022 Hyundai Tucson - $24,950-$37,650, 2022 Ford F150 - $37,700-$77,760, and 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee - $36,980-$44,850.  A lot of newer vehicles out today cost more than the $25,000 and if they were totaled in an accident you could easily be over the limit your policy has coverage for.  You could also be involved in a multiple car accident and be well over your $25,000 limit of coverage.

Retrieved from: https://www.grangeinsurance.com/tips/does-home-insurance-cover-structural-damage

If you’re not sure what kinds of structural repairs are covered by your home insurance policy, you aren’t alone. Home damage happens in many different forms and it’s not always obvious when your home has structural damage. The integrity of your home’s structure can slightly deteriorate over time or get ruined rapidly in a severe storm.
Find out what structural damage is covered under most homeowners insurance policies. Plus, learn about additional insurance policies that can help you get the best protection for your home.

What is structural damage to a building?

​You will notice structural damage immediately in many cases. Inside your home, things like ceiling damage, a cracked chimney or slanted floors are easy to spot. Licensed home inspectors primarily look at the four pillars which are the foundation, floor, walls and roof. Cracking, sagging, shifting or missing features on any of the pillars may be considered structural damage if the ruin is severe.

by Justin Metz on January 17, 2022

Retrieved from: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/how-to-dig-out-of-snow

If you live in an area that regularly sees snow, clearing the driveways and sidewalks after a winter storm is a regular part of life. But when severe winter weather strikes, and the snowfall is measured in feet instead of inches, digging out becomes a lot more work.

Even if the weather caught you off guard, you’ll still have to brave the cold and dig your way out. Here are some tips to help you clear away all that ice and snow

HOW TO CLEAR SNOW FROM YOUR SIDEWALKS

If you own your own home, you are responsible for shoveling sidewalks on your property. In fact, homeowners can be held liable if someone is injured after falling on an obstructed walkway, so it’s important to ensure your sidewalk is cleared.

Some places even have laws setting time frames by which snow must be cleared. Expectations vary by state, city and township, so review your local snow removal ordinances to avoid having to brave the cold and pay a fine or receive a citation on top of that.

For clearing sidewalks, your options will be limited to a snowblower or shovel. If you’re shoveling, be sure to follow these snow shoveling safety tips to avoid an injury. When you’re finished, add salt or ice melt to the sidewalk to prevent ice buildup.

HOW TO REMOVE SNOW FROM YOUR DRIVEWAY

After a blizzard, you’ll want to quickly regain access to the street in front of your house. Here are a few options to get the job done:

Snow plow
While they do sell snow plow attachments for lawn tractors and ATVs, plowing typically isn’t a DIY job for most homeowners. However, hiring a snow plow may not be an option after a big snowstorm. Not only will demand be incredibly high after a blizzard, but really deep snow can become nearly impossible to plow. If you want to hire a snow plow, do it in advance of the storm. Unless a state of emergency has been declared, the plow company will probably come several times during the storm to keep the snow levels more manageable. 

Snow blower
If you don’t have access to a plow, the easiest way to clear your driveway will be using a snow blower. When using a snow blower, start in the middle of your driveway and keep making U-turns to work outward. This allows you to blow snow to both sides of the drive. However, not all snow blowers are created equal. So before you get started, ensure your machine is up to the task.

• Smaller single-stage snow blowers: These can work well for snow up to 9 inches deep. But when facing deeper snowfall, they likely won’t have the power to get the job done.
• Larger, two- and three-stage gas snow blowers: These use multiple augers and impellers designed to throw larger amounts of snow for long distances. If you’re clearing snow that’s deeper than the top of your snow blower’s auger housing, you should also install drift cutters. These metal arms are designed to cut through deep snow, which prevents it from falling over the top of your housing and onto the machine.

Snow shovel
Using a shovel is obviously the most labor-intensive method of clearing your driveway. However, if you shovel frequently during the snowstorm (instead of waiting until it’s over), you can lessen the amount of snow you need to move each time. You may spend more time shoveling, but it will be easier on your back.
Experts also recommend using two types of shovels to clear your drive:

• Push first: First, use a pusher or plow-type shovel to push the snow to the edges of your driveway.
• Then, scoop: After you’ve finished pushing, use a more traditional snow shovel with sides to scoop what’s left out of the way.

HOW TO DIG YOUR CAR OUT OF THE SNOW

If the snow is so deep it’s hard to see your car, you’ve got some work ahead of you. First, clear the space around your vehicle so you’ve got room to work. Then, start from the top and work your way down.
Avoid the temptation to use a snow shovel when clearing your car. You’ll risk leaving behind deep scratches in your vehicle’s paint or glass, which could require expensive repairs down the road. Instead, use a foam brush or non-abrasive snow broom to gently clear the snow away.
Once you clear enough snow to get into your vehicle, you can start it up and let the defrosters melt any ice on the glass. Just be sure the area around the tailpipe is clear, too.

WHAT IF MY CAR GETS STUCK IN THE SNOW?

After you dig out your car, resist the urge to step on the gas and spin your wheels. That could put you in an even deeper rut by piling snow and ice around your tires. 

If you find yourself stuck, the best thing to do is steadily rock your vehicle from front to back. This helps your car gently build momentum to get up and out of the divots. Try carefully switching from drive to reverse. This helps you inch out of the rut by dislodging snow around your tires and creating a clear path to drive out.
If that doesn’t work, try these tips:

• Dig out. Use a shovel to clear the snow away from your wheels, as well as any high-piled snow that’s tightly lodged underneath your car.
  
  
• Increase traction. Sprinkle some salt, sand or cat litter around your tires to get a better grip. (In a pinch, a sturdy floor mat can also do the trick.)
  
  
• Find a friend. No surprise here: Having someone to give your car a push can be a lifesaver. (Just make sure to pay the favor forward the next time you see someone stuck in a snow drift.)

HOW TO CLEAR SNOW AND ICE FROM YOUR ROOF AND GUTTERS

After a blizzard, the extra weight of all that snow and ice could add up to more than your home can bear. Here’s what you need to know about clearing snow and ice from your roof.

• Know your limit. Because every home is built differently, there’s no magic number of how much snow your roof can support. However, experts say most roofs can withstand a weight of about 20 pounds per square foot. Fresh snow weighs in at about 5 pounds for every 10 inches of depth – meaning you’ll reach your roof’s limit after about 3 feet of snow. However, packed snow and ice weigh considerably more.
  
  
• Use a rake. When clearing snow from your roof, it’s important to have the right tools. A snow rake with a long extendable handle can help you clear snow while standing safely on the ground. Just start near the bottom of your roof and work your way up.
  
  
• Stay off the roof. Whatever you do, don’t climb on top of your roof. Not only is there a high risk of falling and getting injured, but using tools like a snow shovel can further damage your roofing materials and cause leaks.
  
  
• Call an expert. If you can’t confidently clear your roof from the ground, it’s best to call in a professional for help. They’ll have all the right safety equipment to do the job right.
  
  
• Remove ice dams. After the snow is gone, you’ll need to remove any built-up ice, called ice dams, from your gutters. You can do this by applying an ice melt product like calcium chloride. Avoid the temptation of a dramatic quick fix, like melting the ice with fire or chipping at the ice with an axe, pick, screwdriver or similar object. Doing so will only expose you to injury and your home to damage.

HOW TO PREVENT OTHER PROBLEMS CAUSED BY HEAVY SNOW

Your roof isn’t the only part of your home that can be damaged by deep snowfall. Be sure to check these other potential problem areas.

• Pool covers: If you have a swimming pool, all that extra weight could stretch or tear your expensive pool cover. And for above ground pools, deep snow adds extra pressure to the pool walls, which may even cause it to collapse.
  
  
• Satellite dishes: Losing signal after the big storm? All that snow may be interfering with your reception. You can clear snow from your satellite dish by using a soft bristled snow brush or broom. Again, though – don’t risk injury by climbing out on your roof.
  
  
• Solar panels: While it may seem counterintuitive, most solar panel manufacturers recommend you let the snow melt naturally off your system. Clearing the panels with a brush or broom could do more harm than good.
  
  
• Water damage: As snow begins to melt, it will produce a lot of water that needs to drain from around your home. Make sure your gutters and drainage system is clear and free from debris. And double-check that your sump pump (if you have one) is working properly. 

BE READY IN ANY WEATHER

​At Erie Insurance, we’re always here for you – no matter what mother nature throws your way. That’s why it pays to have a local ERIE agent on your side. Talk to us to learn more about auto insurance and home insurance from ERIE.

Retrieved from: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/service-line-coverage

​If you’re like many homeowners, you may have received offers in the mail promoting protection plans for exterior utility lines or pipes. And if you’re like most consumers, you’re not quite sure if this protection is something you might actually need.

WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY?

The reality is that as a homeowner, exterior underground service and utility lines on your property are often your responsibility – and breaks in a line or accidents during digging can happen. If you need to repair or replace physically damaged lines or pipes, the cost can be substantial.

REQUEST A QUOTE

In most places, a city, township or utility company will not assume any responsibility for the portion of a service line or pipe that runs underground on your property, to or from the public connection.
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And typical homeowners insurance policies don’t provide coverage for damage to these exterior underground service lines or pipes, either. This can mean serious trouble for a homeowner if a service line or pipe is physically damaged from a service line failure and requires repair.

WHAT SERVICE LINES MIGHT RUN UNDER MY PROPERTY?

Exterior underground service and utility lines include:

• Water and sewer pipes
• Cable, internet and electric wiring
• Natural gas pipes
• Propane pipes

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HOW SERVICE LINES BECOME DAMAGED

Some of the most common causes include: tree roots, animal interference, an artificial electrical current, the weight of vehicles pressing down on the lines and even corrosion, rust, wear and tear.

Outdoor elements and causes like these can prove detrimental to these service lines and pipes. No matter what the cause, the effects can be costly. Besides repairing the actual service line, a homeowner may have to dig up landscaping, driveways and sidewalks to gain access to the damaged line. Damaged outdoor property like trees, shrubs and even walkways may require repair or replacement as a result of the service line repair or the service line failure itself.  

GOOD NEWS: HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS

If you have an ErieSecure Home® insurance policy, you can purchase additional protection that covers the cost of these service line repairs as well as related excavation costs, outdoor property damage and even loss of use.  
With ERIE’s Service Line Coverage* as part of your home insurance, you won’t be stuck footing the bill on your own for these service line failures to your exterior underground service lines.

WHAT’S COVERED?

Service line coverage is available when you add either the Plus or Select bundle to an ErieSecure Home® policy. It provides coverage for physical damage, caused by a covered service line failure, to exterior underground service lines like cable, internet and electrical wiring, and damaged natural gas, propane and sewer pipes.**

Talk to us today and we can explain the details and give you a quote on homeowners insurance that includes service line coverage.

Retrieved from: https://rvshare.com/blog/rv-preparation-checklist/

​by Dee Montana

Last updated on March 26th, 2019 at 04:27 pm. Originally published on July 12th, 2015

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One of the first lessons you learn about RVs is that they requires organized and regular maintenance. A simple RV preparation checklist is the perfect way to get your rig ready for it’s first road trip of the season.

Some RV owners camp during every season, while others only use their rig in the summer and store it all through the winter months. No matter how or when you use your RV, spring is the perfect time for annual maintenance and systemized checks.


Why spring?

In most cases, spring weather is a safe time to work on your RV without the fear of a deep freeze. If you stored your RV throughout the winter you probably took certain steps to winterize and prepare your rig for cold storage. If that was the case, the first step in the spring is to reverse this process and gear up for active use.

 The Basic Preparation Checklist

• Check the RV batteries and make sure they have a full charge
• Flush the RV water system and refill with potable water
• Check for any water leaks
• Check RV Appliances
• Check RV Tires
• Check Fluids in Engine and Generator and Change As Needed
• Inspect The Seams & Seal
• Perform A Full Safety Check

1. Check the RV batteries

Batteries are a great place to start your spring spruce up. Batteries lose up to 10% of their energy per month when in storage and not in use. It’s important to make sure your batteries are fully charged your batteries and have the correct water levels (check your battery manual). If the batteries were removed for storage make sure they are reconnected correctly. Remember! Batteries can be dangerous. Take every precaution, and if you aren’t comfortable messing with them have a service engineer do the process for you.

2. Flush The RV Water Tank, Check for Leaks, and Sanitize

You probably winterized your water tanks before putting your RV in storage. Now it’s time to de-winterize and check for any leaks that may have occurred. This process takes a bit of time, but will save you a lot of hassle down the road.

• Connect one end of your drinking hose to city water and the other to the RV.
• Run the water continuously through the entire system. You want to remove every trace of the non-toxic RV antifreeze you used to winterize.
• If you have an outside shower hose, be sure to flush that as well.
• If for any reason your fresh water tank had antifreeze added to it you will need to drain off any remaining water from the tank.
• Next, add fresh potable water and turn the water pump on. Open every faucet in your RV and keep the water running until the water runs clear.
• Once clear water appears you can turn off the pump and close the faucets.
• Fill the water heater tank with potable water and flush that system out with fresh water. There should be no remnants of antifreeze in the system.
• Once the system is completely flushed you can replace your water filter cartridge if you have one.

Now it’s time to check for leaks.

Grab a flashlight and turn on the water pump. Wait until the sound of the pump stops. Once the water pump stops and the water is pressurized you can turn the pump off and begin your search. Look underneath your sink cabinets, around the toile,t and inside your basement compartments. Anywhere water might flow you want to watch for potential leakage. Take your time with this process. If you locate a leak be sure to have it repaired before you leave on your first trip of the season.

This is also a good time to sanitize the water system.

• Close all the drains and make sure drain plugs are in.
• Use a quarter cup of household bleach per 15 gallons of fresh water (if your water tank holds 30 gallons you will need a half cup of bleach). Combine the bleach with fresh water in a gallon container and then pour it into your partially full fresh water tank. Fill the water tank completely.
• Turn the pump on and let the water run through the faucets.
• In a short time you will begin to smell bleach.  Close the faucets and let the tank sit overnight.
• In the morning, drain all the water from the tank and fill it with fresh water.
• Turn the pump back on and let the faucets run and run until you no longer smell bleach.
• If necessary, you may want to repeat this process over the next couple of days.

Completing this process will give you peace of mind knowing that your water is clean and fresh every time.

3. Check the RV Appliances

If your RV uses propane (Also called LP gas) you need to check the tanks, the connections, the valve and the firing operation. Propane is often used to operate the hot water, the fridge, and the stove. If something isn’t working correctly have your system checked by a professional. Make sure to have a leak test and a gas pressure test each year. You want to be sure that this highly important system is working safely.

If you have refillable propane tanks check the dates on the tanks. Most people are unaware that their propane tanks expires and must be re-certified for safety. Check yours annually.

Once your propane appliances are in compliance spending some time checking your microwave, air conditioner, fridge or any other electric appliance in your rig. Make sure you plug into a solid source of 30 or 5- amp power. Many people choose to park their RV at an RV park while they test out their systems each spring.

4. Check the RV Tires

Tires are a hot topic in the RV industry. Some companies say RV tires should be fully replaced every 5 years. Others claim that if properly cared for they can last 10 years. Either way, you must check your tires to be sure they are ready for the season. Your entire home relies on the safety of these wheels, so give them the attention they deserve.

First check the air pressure. While in storage tires loose pressure. Check your manual and fill each tire according to the recommended PSI. Inspect each tire for tread wear and cracking especially in the sidewalls. If you have any concerns, be sure to have a professional inspect the tires prior to leaving on a trip.

Don’t let  blow out happen to you. Check those tires!

5. Inspect the RV Engine and Generator

Now we are ready to tackle the engine! Yup, the all important part that gets you where you want to go deserves some attention too.

Start by checking all of the fluid levels and make sure they are full and fresh. If you don’t know what your coach uses look in your owner’s manual or contact your dealer. Here are the fluids you want to check:

• Transmission
• Power Steering
• Engine Coolant
• Engine Oil
• Windshield Washer
• Brake Fluid
• Generator Oil

If you have low fluids in one area this may indicate a problem or a leak. Take some time to figure out what is happening to the fluid. You will want to service your engine and the fluids on a regular basis. If you have been doing that and you have an issue, be sure to take it in to be looked at before you leave on a trip.

Now check all of your gauges. 

Are they giving accurate readings?

Check all your lights.

Check the lights on your trailer and the connections between your RV and your trailer.

Check your registration, insurance and vehicle emissions sticker.  

Is everything up to date? If not, stop what you are doing and go get it done!

Your generator has been off for a long time and will need to be served according to the manual. 

Make sure the oil level is correct before you attempt to start the generator. If you didn’t store it correctly, you may have trouble restarting it. Inspect the exhaust area before starting. Do you see any problems? If not, start the generator and plan to let it run for a couple of hours. It doesn’t have to be on full load, but it needs to run for a while to get the engine ready for the season. The last thing you want is to travel without a generator.

Take the time to make sure everything is working properly.

6. Check the RV Seams

Most people forget about their RV seams. This is a mistake you don’t want to make. Each and every seam has leak potential. If you inspect and reseal the seams one or two times a year you are less likely to have a leak.

Start by inspecting the roof and moving down over the body of the rig. Look for any openings, cracks or forms of damage. Is there any separation? Is there a specific area that shows wear? Use RV compatible sealants and research which type of sealant is best for the material you want to repair. If your roof shows wear you may want to consider having it professionally resurfaced and sealed. Ask your local RV dealer for their personal recommendation. If you plan to work on the roof yourself, please be careful.

7. Explore Your Safety

With the outside complete, it’s time to move back in the RV. You will want to check the following devices and update their batteries or have the items inspected and recharged

• Smoke detector
• Carbon Monoxide Detector
• PL Gas Leak Detector
• Fire Extinguisher

These 7 steps are an essential part of preparing for a safe road trip. Don’t skimp. Take the time to inspect each part of your RV’s system. If you are unable to do the work yourself, book a spring session with a recommended RV technician.

If you’re feeling energetic, consider a spring cleaning in the inside of your coach as well. Here are a few things to freshen up:

• Bedding and Towels
• Rugs
• Blinds or Curtains
• Floors
• Inside the fridge and freezer
• Wipe the pantry and the drawers
• Wipe the shelves
• Wipe cabinets inside and out
• Blankets
• Lawn Furniture
• Wash All Pots, Pans and Dishes
• Clean under the sinks
• Wash the windows inside and outside
• Clean the mirrors
• Toss old toiletries and add new

You may not have time to do every step listed,  but this list gives you an idea of what may be needed. Every RV will be different. The key is to set time aside to prepare for the RV season. Don’t wait until the last minute and skimp on your safety. If you’ve completed this simple RV preparation checklist you know you have done everything necessary for a great trip.

Retrieved from: https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/why-buy-more-life-insurance-outside-work

Tanza Loudenback Mar 12, 2020, 4:42 PM

If you get life insurance for free through work, there's no reason not to take advantage of it.

About 60% of non-government workers in the United States have access to life insurance through work. It's a valuable benefit that employers often offer at no cost to employees. Plus, coverage is guaranteed so you don't have to submit to a medical exam.

But group coverage still may not be enough, particularly if you have a spouse, kids, or other family members that rely on you for financial support. Here's why you may want to consider buying an individual life insurance policy, too:

1. It's probably not enough coverage

Group life insurance is broad and there's no opportunity to customize your policy. Employers typically offer coverage amounts that are a multiple of your salary.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median worker with access to group life insurance receives $200,000 in coverage. That's a reasonable amount, but anyone with a family to support, debt to pay off, or big future expenses will likely need a larger death benefit.

2. You can't add riders to your policy

You also can't add riders to a policy you get through work. Riders are additional terms and conditions that enhance your coverage for specific situations. There are riders that allow you to accelerate the death benefit in the event of illness, get an additional benefit for the death of a spouse or child, or add more coverage for accidental death or dismemberment.

3. You can't take your policy with you

Most group life insurance policies aren't portable when you leave your job. While you may have the chance to convert it to an individual policy, you'll have to pay the premiums your employer previously covered.

Since a group life policy is guaranteed coverage — there's no evaluation of your health, age, or overall risk to determine your premium — it will likely be more expensive than an individual policy if you're low risk (e.g. you have no major health conditions).

4. You may want a permanent policy

Most group life insurance policies are term, meaning they last for a set number of years and then expire. Financial experts often recommend term life insurance for most people because it's affordable and acts as a safety net while you build up your savings, but it's not the only option.

If you want to build cash value and/or leave money behind for your spouse, kids, or grandkids, a whole life policy could be a better fit. You may want to consult with a financial planner to see if it's a good option for you.

Retrieved from:  www.foremost.com/learning-center/improving-your-seo.asp
By: Nikki King
​

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the increasing of web visibility and traffic through organic search engine results. Strong SEO makes your business easier to find online. Although these tips are simple and quick, your SEO will be an ongoing process and it’ll take a while to start seeing the results. A few ways to improve your SEO are by:

Being accurate and consistent

Create a document with the following business information:

• Name of business
• Address
• Phone number
• Email

• Date founded
• Website
• Social media links
• About paragraph

When filling out information about your business online (mainly on business listings and other web-based profiles), you can copy and paste from the document and it’ll be the same each time. Having the same contact information will make your business seem more reputable to consumers and the search engines.

Claiming your business listings

Business listings are the results that show up when someone searches for your company online. For Google™, it appears on the right side of the search site. Claiming your listings on search engines like Google, Yelp®, Bing, Yahoo!® and other popular sites will allow you to manage the listings and keep them up-to-date.

Improving and updating your website

It’s important to have a website, as it acts as your online office for customers to learn about your business and take important actions, like requesting a quote or purchasing a product. If you don’t have a website, you can either hire someone to create one or create one for free using Google My Business.

Once you have a website, be sure to keep it updated and free of errors. This could be as simple as improving the loading speed on your website, providing correct information and making sure all links within the site are working correctly.

Analyze how your website is doing

If you have a Google account, you can register with Google Search Console. It’s free and you can view your website’s performance, page errors, queries and more. You will also get alerted if Google identifies any issues with your website.

Staying active on social media

At Foremost® we recommend posting on your social media pages three to five times a week. Linking to your website in some of those posts will help drive people to your website and improve your SEO. The more authoritative, real and reliable links you have coming to and from your website, the more this will increase your SEO.

Provide quality content

Whether you’re creating content for your business’ social media pages, your blog or your website, it should all be high quality and valuable content. For example, having links that are more descriptive than “click here” will also help people navigate your website easier. Potential customers will find interest, more use and learn more about your company.