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  • Life Changes: When You Should Talk to Your Insurance Agent

    Life Changes: When You Should Talk to Your Insurance Agent

    When you
    first search for home or auto insurance, you’ll likely work with an insurance
    agent. Your agent’s
    role is to inform you of the coverage options available to
    ensure that the things that matter most to you
    are protected. 

    There
    are many benefits of utilizing an independent agent for your insurance needs.
    Establishing a relationship with an independent agent means someone else is
    personally looking out for what it is that you want to insure. Independent
    agents can shop your policy, matching your needs across multiple insurance
    carriers. They can also help you evaluate discounts to make sure you are taking
    advantage of available savings opportunities. 

    It is
    important to stay in contact with your agent and keep them informed as your
    life continues to evolve. If your agent isn’t aware of your life changes, your
    insurance policies will not reflect them, potentially leaving you under or even
    over insured. Policy renewal can be a great time to regularly check in with
    your agent, but feel free to contact them more often if needed. 

    Consider
    contacting your independent insurance agent when one or more of the following
    life changes happen: 

    1. Buy or rent a
      new property
      When you move or invest in a new home or property, you’ll want to
      make sure you are covered. Let your agent know when you’re planning to
      move and give them as much information as possible about the new place to
      get policy research started. You’ll want your policy to start the same day
      ownership transfers to you so that you are covered if any loss happens
      from there forward.
    2. Renovate your
      home or property
      Maybe you make a major improvement to your home like renovating a
      bathroom, adding a deck, or even an addition. You’ll want to let your
      agent know when these projects are finished because they’ll likely
      increase the value of your home, maybe warranting a policy change to
      ensure you are covered for that increase in the case of a loss. In
      addition, if you own a piece of land and decide to build a garage or cabin
      on the land, you’ll want to reach out to your agent.

    3. Getting married
      or divorced
      Getting married could offer perks like discounts for bundling
      policies, having 
      multiple cars on one policy, and more.
      You’ll want to have both of your names listed on your policies as well so
      that you are both covered. In addition, you’ll want to consider things like
      insuring your wedding and engagement rings, creating/updating your home
      inventory list, and potentially increasing your personal property coverage if
      you’ll be moving in together. In contrast, you will want to let your insurance
      agent know if you’re getting divorced so that your policy can be changed to
      reflect this.
    1. Install a home
      security system
      Installing a home security system can provide you peace of mind in
      many ways. Knowing your home and your family are safe is one of the
      biggest benefits. Another is the potential for a discount on your
      homeowners insurance policy. Give your agent a call to discuss what
      systems would qualify through your insurance carrier and let them know
      once it is installed.

    2. Teen starts
      driving
      It’s an exciting time when your teen gets their driver’s permit and
      starts to hit the road. Don’t forget to contact your agent to add them as
      a driver to your auto policy so they are covered if any incidents occur.
      Adding your teen will likely increase your auto insurance premium, but it
      is crucial in keeping everyone protected in the event of a loss. To minimize
      the increase in premium, you’ll want to make sure they take driver’s
      safety courses and have good school grades. Both of these things could
      qualify you for discounts with many auto insurance carriers. 
    1. Student heads
      off to college
      When your child leaves for college, you may want to let your
      insurance agent know. If they are attending college without a car and
      won’t be driving while they are there, depending on the distance from your
      home, you may qualify for a discount on your auto insurance policy.

    2. Start a new
      business or expand on an existing one
      Ensuring your business is properly insured can be crucial to your
      success. Whether you decide to operate your business out of your home or have
      another building for it, you’ll want to discuss the scope and location of
      your business with your agent to make sure every aspect is protected.
      Something to take note of is the use of your personal car for business. In
      the event of a loss, your claim could be denied if you are found to be
      using your car for business without proper coverage for it.
    3. Making a big
      purchase
      When you choose to invest in something valuable or even if you
      inherit something expensive, you should check to make sure your homeowners
      or auto insurance policies have limits high enough to cover those items.
      In the event of a loss, it would be devastating to find out those
      valuables weren’t protected. Your insurance agent will be able to advise
      you on whether your current policies could expand to meet your needs, and
      if not, they may ask you to consider changing your policy.
    4. Retirement
      Retiring can have added benefits that could apply discounts to your
      insurance policy premiums. Talk to your agent when you get ready to retire
      to learn more about your options. If you’re going to be driving less
      because you’ll be home more, let your agent know. Many insurance carriers offer
      discounts because driving less decreases your chances of accidents. In
      addition, many carriers offer a discount on homeowners policies for
      seniors.

    5. Purchasing
      a new car
      While you’re in the process of purchasing a new car, get in touch
      with your agent. They’ll be able to advise you on how much the new vehicle
      would cost to insure before you purchase it. Your agent will also talk to
      you about different coverage and discount options that could apply if you
      purchase a brand new car or even one with more safety features.

    The bottom line is that your insurance agent and insurance
    carrier are there to support you. When life changes, your insurance policy
    probably should too. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them if you are
    experiencing any of the events listed above or others. You can also reach out
    to your insurance agent to better understand your policy and discuss your
    options. Protecting what matters most to you is a top priority to your
    insurance team. 

    Click the link below to find an insurance agent local
    to you and get a free quote today. 



  • Insuring Your Rental Home and Bed & Breakfast Business: What You Should Know

    Insuring Your Rental Home and Bed & Breakfast Business: What You Should Know

     

    Owning a rental home or Bed & Breakfast (B&B) can
    be an excellent investment opportunity. B&B’s and rental homes are very
    popular amongst travelers because they offer their guests a unique and intimate
    way to explore a new location, with a more comfortable “at home” feel than can
    be found in a typical hotel.

     

    Whether you choose to rent out your entire home, just a
    room, or another property entirely, hosting guests can be a great way to earn
    income. However, having a rental home or B&B as a business is more
    complicated than just making your property available for people to book. Read
    below to learn more about these two types of properties

     

    Owning a short-term rental property:


    For starters, you’ll want to check with your town or
    municipality to ensure that you are aware of all laws and regulations that may
    apply to short-term rentals. Next, owning a short-term rental property requires managing
    finances, guest communication, and property maintenance after each use. 
    You’ll want to have a plan for any maintenance mishaps,
    like a leaky faucet or power outage, that may occur during a guest’s stay. There is also
    the potential for damage or theft caused by your guests, or damage to your
    property from weather related events, while being rented.

     

    What you need to know about insuring your rental property:

    Although damages may feel like a minor detail, it is
    important to have insurance to protect your property and yourself, as the
    owner. At NYCM Insurance, we offer business insurance policies that can be
    tailored to your specific needs for your rental home or B&B that are
    different from your typical homeowner’s policy. Making sure your insurance
    policies meet your needs is always important, but it is especially so when you
    own a business. You’ll want to ensure you are covered if a guest is injured on
    your property, or if a large loss like a fire occurs while the property is
    being rented.


    Your independent agent is the best resource to
    ensure that you are getting the best price for your insurance without
    sacrificing any essential coverage. When you discuss your policy with your
    agent, be sure to provide details on the property type, what you intend to use
    it for, and any other details so that they can help tailor the policy to your
    needs. Your agent will also be able to answer any of your questions about what
    is covered under your policy and what’s not.

    Curious to learn more about your business insurance coverage options for a
    rental property? Click the button below to find a local agent and receive a
    free quote today!

  • NYCM Stories: North Star Neighbors

    NYCM Stories: North Star Neighbors

    At NYCM
    Insurance, we live by our North Star values by expressing and demonstrating
    genuine care for people’s well-being so that others have hope for a better
    tomorrow and the courage to persevere. This includes being active, supportive
    members of our community. 

     

    Members
    of Team NYCM from our Orchard Park branch office recently started a committee
    called the “North Star Neighbors,” with a goal of embodying our North Star
    statement and helping those in need. 

     

    Recently,
    the North Star Neighbors teamed up with a local charity, aptly named
    Operation Good Neighbor, to
    bring needed essentials to those in their local communities. Operation Good
    Neighbor (OGN) is an organization that collects food, clothing, shoes, bedding,
    and other items to distribute to those in need. They also accept cans and
    bottles, using earnings to purchase necessary items for the community. In
    addition, they collect sneakers in any condition, and send them to an outside
    vendor to be refurbished earning up to $7 per pair
     from
    the vendor. 

     

    One of
    the first ways that the North Star Neighbors was involved with OGN was
    supporting a sneaker drive. They collected 70 pairs of sneakers to donate – raising
    up to $490 for the charity! 

     

    “The
    North Star Neighbors meet monthly to discuss ways in which we can support
    Operation Good Neighbor,” said Cynthia Kaczmarek, Employee Relations
    Coordinator. “We all really enjoy being involved in our community and have lots
    of creative ideas for fundraisers in the future!”

     

    In the
    office, the North Star Neighbors have ongoing fundraisers like a snack box with
    proceeds from sales being donated back to OGN, ensuring that they continue to
    give back each day. One of their most recent fundraisers took place at NYCM
    Insurance’s mid-year update for employees in Orchard Park. 

     

    “Each
    division collected items to create a basket to raffle during the event. There
    were so many fun themes, and everyone seemed to enjoy the project and working
    with their team to give back,” said Cynthia. 

     

    The
    profits from basket raffle sales were donated to Operation Good Neighbor to be
    used to purchase supplies for the community. The North Star Neighbors are
    embracing our core values by making a very positive impact on those in need and
    we couldn’t be prouder of them.

     

    Giving
    back to our local communities is a part of who NYCM Insurance is at our core
    and embodies our culture. To learn more about the culture and benefits of
    joining Team NYCM, visit the link below.

  • 4 Important Auto Coverages to Consider

    4 Important Auto Coverages to Consider

    Whether you are getting ready to insure a new car or are considering altering your current coverage, understanding auto insurance can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve outlined below some of the most important auto insurance products to consider in your personalized coverage.

    Base Transportation Expense Coverage: 


    Transportation expense coverage provides you with a specified amount of funds to cover the cost of a rental car or other modes of transportation should your vehicle be undriveable due to a covered loss. Many carriers include a base coverage, but it is up to you to decide if you need additional or increased limits. For example, if you use your car to transport your family of six, but only have the base transportation expense coverage available, you will likely only receive enough money to cover a standard 4-door sedan, and will be responsible for the remaining cost of a larger vehicle. In this case, you would benefit from expanding your coverage to ensure that you can rent a vehicle comparable to your own with minimal out-of-pocket cost. 

    New Car Replacement Coverage:

     

    New car replacement is very important for those who own vehicles that are less than 3 years old. Having this coverage option means that in the event of a covered total loss, your insurance carrier will pay for the cost of the new model year equivalent of the same vehicle you have or a comparable one. It’s especially important to consider this type of coverage if you have a newer car that will depreciate quicker than your loan is paid off.

    Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts Coverage: 


    This coverage option is important to those who value keeping their vehicle as close to original as possible. If your vehicle is involved in a covered loss and OEM Parts coverage is included in your policy, additional funds will be allocated to ensure your car is repaired with original manufacturer parts. It is important to note, though, that many companies do not include glass in this coverage. 

    Personal Articles Coverage: 


    When purchasing auto insurance, many people don’t consider coverage limits for the items you are carrying in your vehicle with you. Many companies, including NYCM Insurance, include personal articles coverage in base packages. However, you may want to consider increasing the limit of your coverage if you are often transporting valuable items like musical instruments, power tools, and more. 

    Understanding what your auto policy covers and making changes to best fit your life’s circumstances is important. Click below to find a local insurance agent to discuss if the above coverage options are right for you! 

  • Submitting an Insurance Claim Online: 4 Benefits to Know

    Submitting an Insurance Claim Online: 4 Benefits to Know

    Reporting
    a home or auto
    insurance claim
    means that something important to you has been damaged, likely in an
    uncontrollable event
    . Submitting
    a claim online might ease some of that tension for you. Keep reading below for
    4 benefits of submitting a claim digitally.

     

    Accessibility 

    Life is
    busy, and finding the time to call in a minor claim may feel like a task that
    can be put off. Submitting a claim digitally is a solution that provides
    greater accessibility to the process! Whether you’re using
    NYCM Insurance’s
    Mobile App
    or a web browser, submitting a claim online can be done on
    your time, day or night, as long as it is safe to do so!

     

    Efficiency

    Not only
    is submitting a claim
    online
    accessible, but it is also efficient. Allowing you to process your claim from
    wherever you are, while tracking its progress from your dashboard. You can also
    submit police reports and any other important documents as you get them,
    reducing the chance of them getting forgotten or misplaced. Another bonus is
    that since you are sending the information quickly to your insurance company,
    the turnaround time for your claim may be faster. 

     

    Transparency

    Submitting
    your claim online means staying in the know. In your personal online portal,
    you can follow your claim’s progress and interact with it as you see fit. Some
    companies also allow you to choose in-network
    auto repair
    shops via your account, creating a sense of ease in the process. You may also
    be able to receive payment updates through your account, keeping you informed
    about when you should expect payouts by mail or directly to your bank
    account. 

     

    Consultation

    Submitting
    your claim online doesn’t take the place of receiving genuine care from a
    representative. The good news is that you can always give your agent or
    insurance carrier a call if you need assistance. Additionally, if your carrier
    has questions about the information, you gave them, you can count on them
    reaching out to you to clarify, whether that be by phone or email. 

     

    The
    bottom line is that submitting a claim digitally has a lot of benefits and NYCM
    Insurance is proud to offer this option for their auto and
    home policyholders.
    Click below to learn more about digital claims
    reporting and how it can be a tool in protecting what matters most to you!

     

  • NYCM Stories: Cultivating our 2024 Interns

    NYCM Stories: Cultivating our 2024 Interns


    Every summer, NYCM
    Insurance’s internship program welcomes students into divisions across the
    company, focusing on providing them with opportunities to learn and grow as
    professionals. This year, 36 interns joined Team NYCM, becoming immersed in our
    culture while gaining first-hand experience on what it’s like to work within
    our four walls.  

     

    The experience that our
    interns receive while working alongside our employees doesn’t stop at the
    day-to-day tasks within their division. We also offer opportunities to interact
    with other teams, lead projects, volunteer, and more. 

     

    “Our internship provides
    valuable real-world experiences, allowing them to learn and work closely with
    the teams they are a part of, as well as getting to be a part of a great
    company culture and community,” said NYCM’s Recruitment Team.  “We value
    the fresh perspective they bring to the organization and love seeing them
    interacting and being a part of their teams. We create a collaborative and
    creative environment they will thrive in, in hopes of them returning to us for
    full-time opportunities.”

     

    This summer, one of the
    intern volunteer projects was to set up for the Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball
    tournament in Norwich, NY. “Setting up hoops was a cool opportunity to not only
    support a community event, but also to connect with other interns at NYCM and
    work together as a team,” said Maeve Robinson, Public Relations intern within
    our Brand Management team. 

     

    Another project that
    interns worked on was hosting a trivia day for each of our branch offices.
    Employees were encouraged to sign up with a team to find out if they were
    “smarter than a 5th grader” at the intern-led event. 

     

    Our People Development
    team wanted to ensure that our interns knew just how much they are appreciated,
    so they hosted various events for them throughout the summer as well. One of
    the most popular events according to the interns was a Pickleball tournament followed
    by lunch. 

     

    Networking and learning
    about what other teams do is another important part of NYCM’s internship
    program. A popular intern and employee event invites each department to set up
    a booth with representatives to interact with all the interns, explaining what
    their team is responsible for. 

     

    “We had a great group of
    interns this year and had fun celebrating them on Intern Day to show
    appreciation for all they do! This year we invited all the divisions to mingle,
    allowing the interns to learn more about each of them and to give the interns
    the opportunity to explore how other divisions in the company could fit into
    their career interests. A fun day for all that attended, including a tiki bar
    provided by our Human Resources Division,” said Talent Acquisition Business
    Unit Manager, Crystal Curpier. 

     

    Continue reading to learn
    more about what some of our 2024 interns had to say about their
    experience. 

     

    Maeve Robinson

     

    Maeve, an intern on Brand
    Management’s Public Relations team, said that her favorite part about her
    internship was the events she was able to plan and participate in. “I really
    enjoyed being able to interact with others and events are the perfect way to do
    that.” One thing that Maeve has taken away from her internship is how to manage
    her time better and not to be hesitant to ask questions about the processes her
    team uses to get tasks done. She learned to really like internal project
    management tools because they helped her stay organized. Maeve plans to attend
    Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in Hospitality and Resort
    Management. 

     

    Jaci Wright 

     

    2024 marked Jaci’s second
    internship here at NYCM, and this summer she had the pleasure of working in our
    People Development division. “My favorite part of being part of the People
    Development team was planning employee events.” During her internship, Jaci
    taught Excel classes, planned an intern day, helped host bingo for employees,
    and planned trivia day. Jaci learned about NYCM’s internship program from her
    older sister who was an intern in past years. Throughout this summer, Jaci has
    built important skills such as multitasking, event planning, and time
    management. These skills will help her in the fall as she embarks on her
    journey as a teacher.

     

    Anna Rinaldo

     

    Anna spent her internship
    with NYCM’s Casualty Claims team. Her favorite part about her summer internship
    was the relationship she built with her team. “I loved that the team was always
    willing to help me with any questions that I had.” Anna is pursuing a career in
    the medical field and decided it would be beneficial to learn about the
    relationship liability insurance has with her chosen path. During her research
    for possible internship opportunities, Anna stumbled upon NYCM and had heard
    from previous interns that it is a great place to work, so she applied.
    Something that Anna took away from her internship is to have a well detailed
    process when creating documents like a handbook. “While learning my role,
    having a specific process of doing tasks allowed me to work independently, but
    also knowing the team was nearby to support me when needed.” Anna said that
    seeing the medical side of insurance opened her eyes to a new perspective and
    now she knows what things she can do as a physical therapist to make the claims
    process easier for claims representatives. After her internship, Anna has a newfound
    appreciation for insurance. In May of 2025, Anna will be receiving her
    Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

     

    Tyler Barth

     

    Tyler spent his summer on
    the Brand Management team’s Creative Team. “My favorite part of this internship
    was the photo coverage that I was able to help with at events.” Doing this
    allowed Tyler to get more hands-on experience and he enjoyed seeing employees
    interacting with one another outside of the office. Something that Tyler
    focused on improving during his internship was his time management skills and credits
    internal tools in helping to work on those skills in an efficient and effective
    way. Tyler will be a sophomore at SUNY Polytechnic Institute in the fall, where
    he is majoring in Communication and Media Design. 

     

    Kaden Butts 

     

    Kaden was an intern in
    NYCM’s Special Investigation Unit (SIU). Throughout the summer, Kaden built a
    special relationship with his team and said that was one of his favorite parts
    of his internship. “The team was incredibly helpful whenever I had questions
    and was very patient as the summer internships are a learning process for
    everyone.” Kaden said he has learned some valuable skills during his internship
    that he will use throughout his career, like professionalism while doing field
    work and questions to ask while out in the field. Kaden is studying Criminal
    Justice at SUNY Morrisville and plans to be a state trooper. 

     

    NYCM employees pride themselves on providing a
    memorable and enriching internship experience to their annual interns. From
    developing new skills, gaining practical experiences for their futures, and
    creating life-long connections, NYCM interns make us proud when the summer is
    through. To learn more about joining Team NYCM, click the link below!

  • 8 Ways to Make the Most of Fall in New York State

    8 Ways to Make the Most of Fall in New York State

    The
    transition from summer to fall can be a sad one for some as we experience the
    weather shift in preparation for winter. For others, autumn is their favorite
    season. No matter how you feel about the seasons changing, we’ve put a list
    together of ways that you can make the most of fall. 

     

    Transition
    to Fall Decor

    Step one
    to get into the fall spirit is digging out those decorations. From fall signs,
    to pumpkins, blankets, and candles there are so many options to make your home
    cozy for the season. Don’t have enough decorations to make your house the way
    you want it? That is the perfect excuse to visit local small businesses that
    specialize in decor or even that department store you love. Even if you have
    lots of options already, you can always add to your collection! 

     

    Enjoy
    Cozy Sweaters, Flannels, & More


    Fall
    brings cooler weather, and we all know what that means; sweaters, flannels,
    scarves, and cozy attire. The drop in temperatures gives you an excuse to break
    out your comfiest clothes. Don’t forget to browse the clothing sections while
    you’re shopping for home decor

     

    Visit
    Local Breweries


    New York State has no shortage of breweries to visit this fall. You can visit your local
    favorites one weekend and make a trip out of visiting new ones the next. From
    craft beers to hard ciders, a brewery’s fall flavors can certainly get you in
    the spirit. Consider taking your brew out to the patio if they have one to
    enjoy the fall weather and take in your surroundings, whether that be the
    beautiful fall foliage or folks hanging around a firepit. Don’t forget to bring
    a designated driver along with you!

     

    Go Apple
    Picking & Visit a Cider Mill


    One of
    the most popular fall activities is to gather your family and friends to go
    apple picking. There’s something special about spending time together in an
    apple orchard that cements fall memories. While you’re at it, stop by a mill to
    grab a gallon of fresh pressed cider. Some cider mills offer a behind the
    scenes look into the process of making the delicious drink you are enjoying.
    Others sell locally-made staples like maple syrup, dips, cheeses, fruit
    spreads, and jams that can make your upcoming menus scream fall. 

     

    Try New
    Fall Recipes

    While
    we’re talking about upcoming menus, we can’t forget to add new fall recipes to
    your list. Try your hand at fall staples like apple or pumpkin pie, use
    squashes that are in season, make a homemade pumpkin spice latte, or try
    something new. 

     

    Visit a
    Pumpkin Patch/Corn Maze


    Taking a
    trip to a pumpkin patch or a corn maze can really boost your fall mood. Whether
    you visit your local favorite or take a trip to somewhere new, plan an
    afternoon of fun. While you’re there, you can grab some pumpkins and gourds to
    decorate your home. Consider bringing family or friends along with you and make
    teams to see who can make it out of the corn maze the fastest. 

     

    Football
    & Soccer Games


    The
    atmosphere at a home football or soccer game is one of the most beloved fall
    traditions. From high school homecomings to a college game, you can’t go wrong.
    If watching pro games on the television or hosting a Sunday afternoon football
    party is more your thing, utilize some of those fall favorite foods and decor
    we mentioned above to create a warm and cozy environment for your guests!
    Supporting your favorite team is a great way for anyone to enjoy fall. 

     

    Enjoy
    the Foliage with “Leaf Peeping”


    You
    might be wondering what is “leaf peeping”? While the term may be new, the
    activity certainly isn’t! The term refers to traveling around taking photos of
    falls colors as the leaves change! Enjoying the foliage might just be the most
    fall thing you can do in New York State. Take a drive and enjoy the beautiful
    sights as trees begin to change color. Experts advise that the end of September
    through the middle of October will likely give you peak viewing across the
    state. 

     

    If we
    have you itching to start your fall decor and you’re looking for more
    inspiration, click the link below for 8 ways to decorate your apartment this
    fall! 


  • 10 College Dorm Room Essentials

    10 College Dorm Room Essentials


    As move-in season approaches,
    college students are trying to pack up their belongings to prepare for move-in
    day. While it might seem like you’ll be simply taking your bedroom with you,
    household and first aid items are also on top of the college packing list. As
    packing can feel like an overwhelming process, we’ve compiled a list below of
    things you definitely don’t want to forget.

    Mattress Topper 

    Some college students find
    the mattresses provided in their dorm room just don’t match up to the one they
    left at home. A good way to combat this is by taking a mattress topper to
    increase the comfort level of your dorm room for the ultimate night’s
    sleep. Pro-tip: consider
    purchasing the same mattress cover/topper you have on your bed at home to make
    your dorm room feel more like your home. 

     

    First Aid Kit 

    Accidents happen, so it is
    best to be prepared. Having a small first aid kit in your room including band
    aids, triple antibiotic ointment, hydrogen peroxide, and other common first aid
    items might be a good idea. While your college’s medical center is available
    for your medical needs, keeping these items in your room can be helpful for
    minor injuries and in the case that the center is closed. 

     

    Shower Shoes & Caddy 

    While colleges do their
    best to keep facilities clean and sanitized, there are many students using
    them. Having your own pair of shower shoes ensures you keep your feet clean and
    protected from anything that might be on the floor. You can’t leave your shampoo
    and other products in a community bathroom, making a shower caddy another dorm
    room staple. Having some organization for your shower items can save you time
    and keep your stuff clean. A good caddy should be able to get wet and have
    enough space to carry everything you need from your room to the shower: from
    shampoo and conditioner, to your loofah, and more. 

     

    Power Strips/Surge
    Protectors

    You can never have enough
    outlets in your dorm room. Having power strips for all your necessities is
    another essential. When purchasing power strips, consider those with surge
    protection. This will ensure the safety of your
    computer and other valuable
    electronics in the event of a power outage or power surge.  Be sure to
    check your college’s policy before adding this necessity to your list, as some
    schools don’t allow them. If they are allowed, making sure that your power strip
    also has an on/off switch is important to abide by many college’s dorm room
    guidelines that your resident advisor will enforce. 

     

    Command Strips 

    When you move in, it is
    important to make your dorm room feel comfy and cozy since it will be your home
    away from home. To many college students, this means hanging up photos of their
    friends and family, posters, and
    lights to decorate. When you’re
    doing this, remember that if you don’t want to face fines at the end of the
    year for wall damage, you need to find another solution. Ung command strips
    will allow you to add character and coziness to your space without facing
    penalties at the end of the year!

     

    Fan 

    Not every college has air conditioning in their dorm buildings.
    If you prefer cooler temperatures in your room, having a fan may help. Another
    great role a fan could play is providing white noise to help you study or
    sleep. In a college dorm, nights can get noisy despite quiet hours, so having a
    fan to help balance some of that is key. In addition, putting your fan in your
    window will provide extra fresh air should you need it. 

     

    Storage 

    In your dorm room, you
    might not have a lot of options when it comes to
    storage. It doesn’t take much to
    create clutter in a small space. You can combat this by having totes, baskets, and
    plastic drawers to help you organize. In addition, looking over what you’ve
    packed and eliminating things that you don’t need might be necessary. Having an
    idea of the storage you need before move-in day is great, but you may also find
    yourself heading out to the nearest superstore to grab more organizational
    tools to fill in for any missing pieces. 

     

    Dry Erase Board/Calendar

    Staying organized doesn’t
    end at having a place to keep all your items. You’ll also want to consider ways
    in which you can keep track of your class schedule, due dates, and more. Many
    college students find that having a dry erase board is an easy way to stay
    organized. Having one allows you to map out your day and keep track of
    assignments you’ll need to work on. In addition, if you have a roommate, it
    also helps you both know where the other is. This might be key if you are
    planning to hit the gym together, study, or even if you want to plan time for
    when your roommate will be out to give yourself absolute quiet to study or
    decompress. 

     

    Small Trash Can

    Having a trash can in your
    dorm room might not be the very first thing that comes to mind when you think
    of the essentials, but it surely is one. When you’re done snacking or decide to
    crumple up the paper you’ve been working on to start fresh, you’ll need
    somewhere to put your trash. Pro-tip: purchasing scented trash bags can keep
    your room smelling fresh in between taking trash out!

     

    Cleaning Supplies

    If you’re someone who
    thrives in a neat and tidy environment, you’ll want to include
    cleaning supplies on your packing
    list. Having a broom and even a vacuum if you plan on including an area rug in
    your decor can be a game changer when it comes to keeping your dorm room clean.
    You should also take disinfectant spray and paper towels for surfaces. These
    essentials will keep your room tidy and smelling fresh. While it might be
    tempting to add a candle to your packing list to keep unwanted odors at bay,
    many college dorms have policies against it, so it may be best to leave those
    at home. 

    Moving into college can be
    stressful, but it should also be a
    memorable time that you enjoy. By making sure you pack the essentials, you are
    setting yourself up for a successful move-in weekend. 

    Renting an apartment instead of living on campus? Click the button below to find a local agent and get a free quote for renters insurance today. 

  • 5 Tornado Safety Tips – NYCM Insurance Blog

    5 Tornado Safety Tips – NYCM Insurance Blog

    Tornadoes
    might not be as common in New York as they are in other areas of the United
    States, but it is important to be prepared and know how to react to stay safe.
    Keep reading for 5 tornado safety tips to keep in mind this
    summer

    Stay Informed

    A large part of staying safe during
    any type of severe weather is staying informed. Ensure you are following
    credible sources, like the
    National Weather Service
    (NWS)
    department assigned to your local area, for accurate and
    up to date information. Knowing the difference between a
    tornado
    watch and warning
    is also important. According to the NWS, a tornado watch
    indicates weather conditions that could produce a tornado and are designed to
    give you enough warning to prepare for the potential of a catastrophic event.
    During a watch, you should keep a close eye on the weather service you are
    following for updates as conditions can rapidly change. 

    A tornado warning, however, is more
    serious. When a tornado warning is issued, the NWS advises that either a
    tornado has been spotted by a credible source, or a developing tornado is being
    watched on a doppler radar. Warnings are typically only active for a short
    period of time (about an hour) in a smaller area than a watch would be. If you
    are in a warning area, you should take action and seek shelter
    immediately. 


    Seek Shelter

    As soon as you hear the news that your
    area may be affected by a tornado you should start planning to seek shelter.
    Gather anyone in your area, including your pets, and head to the safest
    location available. If you are in a tornado warning zone, this should be done
    immediately and might look a little different than if you were in a watch and
    had more time to prepare. Finding the lowest level of the building you are in,
    or a small interior room without windows like a closet, bathroom, or hallway
    will be safest. The NWS advises that if you are in a mobile home, you should
    try to seek shelter in a stronger building. 

    If you are driving or are outside and
    unable to find shelter, the NWS encourages you to find the lowest spot possible
    on the ground. Think deep ditches or underground culverts and bring an item
    like a jacket to cover your head for protection. Once you find an area you feel
    is as safe as possible, lie flat and use your hands and the item you brought to
    protect your head. The key takeaways from the National Weather Service’s
    Tornado Safety Rules are to seek shelter, stay away from windows, doors, and
    exterior walls, and to protect your head at all costs. 


    Stay Inside

    While it might be tempting to go
    outside and see what the weather is doing, it is best to stay inside. Your
    safety should be a top priority during
    extreme
    weather
    warnings. Consider bringing a battery powered radio with
    you to stay informed of weather updates. Experts advise against trying to
    outrun tornadoes in your vehicle, as the tornado may move in your direction
    faster than you can travel. In the event that a tornado is headed your way,
    being in a vehicle is dangerous as they can easily be swept up in the wake of
    the tornado and thrown. 


    Keep an Emergency Kit

    Having an emergency kit at the ready
    is never a bad idea because we can’t always predict when to expect severe
    weather with enough advanced notice to prepare for it. The
    National Weather Service
    compiled an in-depth list of items to consider including: 

    • A First Aid Kit
    • Flashlight(s) & Batteries
    • Non-Perishable Food & Water – 3 days’ worth for each
      family member, including pets.
    • A Whistle – to call for help.
    • Prescription Medications & Other Special Needs – at
      least 3 days’ worth. 
    • A Battery Powered Radio/Weather Radio
    • Solar/Battery Powered Phone Charger
    • Blankets 
    • Extra Clothes
    • & More

    We’ve also compiled an in-depth list
    of items to consider keeping in your
    car
    safety kit
    like; a first aid kit, tire gauge, flashlight, jumper
    cables, emergency flares, and more! Check it out
    here

    Being prepared for the storm may help
    to ease some stress you may be experiencing when extreme weather is headed your
    way, and having an emergency kit will be helpful if you are impacted. 


    After the Storm: Use Caution

    Once the
    storm is over and weather warnings have been lifted, it may be 
    tempting to head out to see the
    effects that a tornado had on not only your home, but also your community.
    However, the safest thing to do is to stay in your home, if it is stable and
    safe, and wait for further instruction from town, county, and/or government
    officials. When you do head out, experts advise assuming that any utility lines
    that are down are live power lines and to stay away from them. Power lines are
    very dangerous and coming into contact with them or bodies of water they touch
    could seriously injure you. 

    Offering help and support to your
    community is invaluable after tragedy strikes. If you are able, consider
    volunteering to help clean up debris or donating time or resources to
    organizations that help communities in times of disaster. Contributing in any
    way you can will mean so much to those who are affected by a natural
    disaster. 

    When
    severe weather is approaching, it can be a
    stressful and
    overwhelming feeling. By being prepared and following the tips above, you will
    ensure you are as safe as possible both during and after a tornado. 

     

    To learn
    more about the difference between a tornado watch and warning, click the button
    below. 

  • NYCM Stories: Employees Support the United Way

    NYCM Stories: Employees Support the United Way

     


    Supporting our community
    and giving back is a top priority at NYCM Insurance. Whether it’s volunteering
    our time, sponsoring community events, or creating meaningful partnerships with
    organizations, being good philanthropic community members is a big part of who
    we are. 
     

    Team NYCM kicked off the
    month of June with a lunch and learn seminar hosted by representatives from the
    United Way of Mid Rural New York to learn more about the organization and their
    initiatives. 


    The United Way of Mid Rural New York works to improve the
    quality of life for local residents through partnerships with a focus in the
    areas of education, health, and income. The organization notes important goals,
    like reducing the number of high school dropouts by improving education,
    helping working families achieve financial stability, and promoting healthy
    lifestyles for youth and adults. 


    Throughout the month, NYCM
    Insurance collected personal hygiene products for youth in the Mid Rural New
    York region who live at or below the Asset Limited, Income Constrained,
    Employed (
    ALICE) Threshold. Team members
    from Edmeston, Sherburne, Canajoharie, and Orchard Park offices donated various
    products including deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo,
    conditioner, feminine hygiene products, and more to be packaged by volunteers
    during the United Way Day of Action in June. 

    Next, members of Team NYCM
    in all offices spent the morning of June 21st volunteering by packaging dental
    hygiene kits with donated items to be distributed to local school
    districts. 


    “This was my first-time
    volunteering for this event, and I definitely plan to do it again in the
    future,” said Marissa Doing of our Brand Management Team. “It was a lot of fun
    making dental kits for the different school districts.”


    The team members who
    attended the United Way’s Day of Action felt it was a fulfilling experience
    that will go a long way in supporting children who need these essentials. In
    addition to dental kits, the United Way is helping to provide donated supplies
    to stock personal hygiene closets at schools that children can access to get what
    they need.


    “It may seem like such a
    mundane thing, but it really makes such a difference for the kids that receive
    them. I’m really excited to see how the personal care closets go this year and
    hope that side of the program will be able to keep growing as well,” said Lexi
    Wilcox of our Brand Management team. “It was also great to spend a few hours
    with a group of coworkers laughing and chatting while giving back to our
    communities at the same time,” she said.

    NYCM Insurance places
    value in providing genuine care to all and helping those in need. This
    volunteer opportunity allowed team members to work together toward a common
    goal of helping local youth. 

    Interested in learning
    about job opportunities at NYCM Insurance? Click the button below to learn
    more!