Tag Archives: safety tips

Recreational

7 tire tips for a safe, smooth ride

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“Where the rubber meets the road” is more than just an expression. It’s the moment of truth. The time for talking is done and someone (or something) is either going to perform or fall short. For a safe, enjoyable, smooth motorcycle ride, how well your tires perform ranks right up there with your driving skills.  

Just like your helmet, tires are essential safety equipment. Make sure yours are ready to grip the asphalt when it counts with these tips: 

1. Start off slow: Ride slowly for a few miles to let the tires warm up before accelerating and cornering normally. This is especially important in the spring and fall when morning temps can be much cooler than the afternoon. 

2. Watch road conditions: An older road or one covered with leaves, grass clipplings, water, or dirt offers less traction—no matter what shape your tires are in. Use caution when driving on unmaintained roadways. 

3. Get a feel for inflation: Overinflated tires have less road traction and amplify the effects of poor road conditions or sudden moves. Underinflated tires will make your motorcycle feel unstable.  

4. Check pressure again: Tire pressure should be checked before every ride, if possible, or at least weekly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s specs. This is especially important in hot and cold weather as temperatures can actually change your reading. 

5. Pressures may vary: Tire pressure isn’t one-size fits all. The recommended tire pressure may be different if you’re carrying a passenger or cargo. Remember to factor in the weight of any added accessories like a cargo bag and any saddlebag items. 

6. Examine the tires: Regularly check your tires’ wear, looking at wear bars and tread depth. Worn out tires can quickly lose traction. Plus, look for cuts, cracks, and embedded stones or nails which are cause for replacement. 

7. New tires beware: New tires can be slick! Take extra care until your tires are broken in well enough to maximize your traction. 

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations. 

Recreational

7 golf cart safety tips

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They’re not just for golf anymore! Golf carts can be found everywhere from retirement communities to college campuses. Some states have even passed laws allowing them to putter down public streets. But despite their lower speed, golf carts are legitimate vehicles that demand safe driving. Check out these 7 safety tips before you hit the road or the course.

  1. Check Licensing Requirements: Do you need a driver’s license to drive a golf cart? It depends on where you live. Find out what’s required in your state before getting behind the wheel.
  2. Stay Inside: Those open sides may be tempting but it’s important to keep all arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times, except when signaling. 
  3. Signal Turns Manually: Golf cart turn signals are small and hard to see. Always use hand signals to indicate you intent to turn.
  4. Don’t Overcrowd: Only carry the number of permissible passengers, which will typically be the number that you have seats and seatbelts for. No one should be sitting on the floor or someone’s lap.
  5. Yield to Pedestrians: Just like when you’re in a car, pedestrians have the right of way. Be sure to follow all the rules of the road and stop and let them cross before carrying on with your drive.
  6. Stay Sober: Alcohol can seriously impede your ability to safely operate any vehicle, including golf carts. Depending on your state, you could even receive a DUI for driving a golf cart under the influence.
  7. Consider Insurance: Golf cart insurance isn’t just a good idea for accidents, in some states it’s mandatory. Talk to your insurance agent about golf cart insurance.

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

Coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, underwriting review and approval, and may vary or not be available for all risks or in all states. Rates and discounts vary, are determined by many factors, and are subject to change. Policies are written by one of the licensed insurers of American Modern Insurance Group, Inc., including but not limited to American Modern Property and Casualty Insurance Company (CA Lic. No. 6129-1.)

Prevention Tips, Residential

5 window safety tips

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Everyone loves a warm summer breeze coming in from the window. Maybe you’re working or relaxing, or simply enjoying the nice weather. However, it’s always important to remember window care is about more than just keeping them shiny.

  1. Always lock your windows before going to bed

It’s a good idea to make locking your windows part of your nighttime routine. Just like locking the doors, a sturdy lock on a window can prevent unwanted intruders.

      2.   Don’t rely on screens for anything other than bugs

Just because your window has a screen doesn’t mean it’ll catch anything that falls out of it—including pets and children. Screens are meant to keep bugs out.

      3.    Keep furniture or steady objects away from the windows

Cats, small dogs, and children are adept at climbing on things. Even if your window is far away from the ground, it’s best to make sure no loved ones are able to climb up and potentially fall out.

     4.    Trim bushes and branches near ground-level windows

Intruders tend to look for places where they can hide easily. Trimming any bushes or branches  near the window makes it a much less sneaky spot for anyone trying to stay stealthy.

     5.    Consider replacing windows

Make sure you know how old your windows are and if they need any maintenance. This could be especially important if you live on or near a coastline that sees a lot of hurricanes or strong storms.

Windows are one of the many joys of owning a home—but are also consistently overlooked. Stay safe with these window tips.

For informational use only. Not applicable to all situations.

Sources:

https://www.americanwindowcompany.com/

https://ibhs.org

https://todayshomeowner.com/

Prevention Tips, Residential

Safety tips to keep in mind this Labor Day

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Labor Day is all about having fun in the sun and spending time with family and friends. But vacant homes, fireworks, grills, and even the sun can pose unwanted threats to your time off. We have some ideas to help protect you and your home this Labor Day, so you can relax and have fun.

Don’t forget to share this guide on your social networks in time for the holiday weekend.

For information only. Not applicable to all situations.