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  • Ask Our Experts: 7 Things Underwriters Wish More People Would Insure

    Ask Our Experts: 7 Things Underwriters Wish More People Would Insure

     

    June 28th marks National Insurance Awareness Day,
    a day meant to pause and evaluate your home and auto insurance policies!
    Inspired by the day, we’ve asked professionals from our     Underwriting Team
    what items they wish more people would consider insuring. The results may
    surprise you – and get you thinking about valuables you didn’t know you could
    insure! Continue reading to learn more about how you can maximize     insurance
    coverage for the things that matter most.

    Jewelry

    Including
    items like your wedding band or a family heirloom in your insurance policy can
    provide peace of mind. According to experts, there are a few different ways
    that you can ensure that items like     jewelry are
    protected. One of these ways is to carry an All-Risk Policy as part of your     coverage. With
    this, any items that are not specifically excluded from the policy are covered
    but are subject to policy limits and deductibles. Another option is to make
    sure the item is specifically scheduled in your homeowner’s policy. For many,
    this is the preferred method because full replacement value may be provided,
    and you can even choose a non-deductible option when building your
    policy. 

     

    Animals

    While pet
    insurance is built to protect your animals, there are other ways to protect
    your wallet should there be a claim involving animals, unrelated to their
    health. Experts from our Underwriting Team recommends notifying your agent when
    you add animals, big or small, to your family. Maybe you’ve gotten your
    daughter the pony she’s been begging for, you’ve purchased a herd of     cattle, or you
    decided to add a pair of pet goats to your family. As much as animals can bring
    joy to our lives, they also can be unpredictable. An     animal could
    get loose on your property and run into the road causing an accident, or could
    injure someone visiting you, causing financial loss. Having your animals
    included in your insurance policy is something experts highly recommend to
    protect your assets. 

    Newly
    Licensed Drivers – With or Without a Car of their Own

    When
    your teenager gets their driver license, adding them to your car insurance
    might not be the first concern on your mind, but it is an important one. Our
    professionals suggest adding them as a primary or occasional driver to your
    policy as soon as possible, whether they have a vehicle of their own or not.
    The reasoning behind this is that by adding your children to your policy, you
    are allowing them to gain credibility as a     rated
    driver    , which will help them obtain a better insurance
    rate     once they have their own auto insurance. Experts also
    suggest letting your insurance agent know when your child is away at college,
    either with or without a vehicle, if they qualify for a good student discount,
    or have completed any accident prevention/defensive driving courses     because
    these instances might affect your premium. 

     

    Snowmobiles

    Riding a
    snowmobile is a
    very popular winter pastime in some areas of New York State. Most people know
    that NYS Law requires all snowmobiles to be registered and insured to hit the
    trail. What many don’t know is that through     NYCM
    Insurance    , snowmobiles can be covered under the insured party’s
    homeowner policy. NYCM offers coverage both for liability and physical damage
    to the machine. 

    Automobile
    Customizations 

    Whether
    you’ve added a plow to your pickup truck, modified your van to be     wheelchair
    accessible, or wrapped your vehicle to enhance its appearance, automobile
    customizations can be costly and are worth insuring. Professionals advise that
    without adding additional coverage to your NYCM     Auto
    Insurance     Policy, customizations are subject to a $1,500 limit. To
    ensure you are fully covered, they suggest talking to your agent about the
    changes you’ve made to your vehicle to see if you are eligible for additional
    endorsements in your policy.      

    New York
    State Businesses


    Insuring
    your     business should
    be a top priority no matter the size. At NYCM Insurance, we insure various
    business types including restaurants, nail and hair salons, ice cream shops,
    retail and grocery stores, apartment buildings, and so much more. Our
    professionals encourage you to consider working with our team to protect what
    matters most. From your home and automobile to your     business, we’ve
    got you covered.      

    All-Terrain
    Vehicles (ATVs)

    All-terrain
    vehicles are common amongst New York State residents who enjoy using them
    recreationally or otherwise. When we asked our underwriting department why they
    chose to feature     ATVs they
    explained that individuals believe that insurance coverage is not needed as
    their ATV is used solely on their property. However, experts cautioned that you
    do need to insure your ATVs for two reasons. The first is that ATVs are
    excluded on homeowner policies, meaning that in the event of a loss or someone
    getting injured, there is no coverage for any expenses or damages. The second
    is that while we don’t insure ATVs through NYCM, they are required to be
    insured when you have an     umbrella
    policy    , which is an excess liability policy that extends your
    auto and home policies. When you are working with your     agent to
    build your umbrella policy, they will require you to prove any ATVs on your
    property are insured. 

    At NYCM
    Insurance, we are dedicated to providing genuine care to our customers while we
    help them protect what matters most. Click the button below     to find an agent
    and receive a free quote today. 

  • 5 Safety Tips for Driving in Heavy Rain

    5 Safety Tips for Driving in Heavy Rain

    Summertime
    Doesn’t Only Bring Sunshine and Blue Skies

    While
    we’re all excited for the beautiful     weather that
    comes with the summer season, we can’t forget about the unfavorable weather.
    Travel can be quite difficult in heavy rain and those who must be on the roads
    should proceed with caution to ensure they make it to their destination safely.
    Keep reading for 5 helpful tips to keep you safe while driving in heavy rainstorms
    this     summer.

    1. Take Your Time

    The
    first and perhaps most important thing is to slow down. Sure, you might arrive
    a few minutes late to your destination, but arriving     safely is more
    important than being on time. If you know you will be traveling during
    potentially     hazardous weather
    conditions, consider leaving at least 15 minutes early or more, depending on
    the distance you’re going. Doing this will help to ensure you aren’t late and
    will alleviate your stress about rushing to get there.

    1. Make Sure Your
      Headlights Are On

    New
    York State Law     requires you to turn on your headlights, even during the
    day, any time that you must use your windshield wipers for visibility. In fact,
    the law states that is true when it is foggy,     snowing,
    sleeting, and of course, if it is raining. Doing so makes your car easier for
    others on the road to see you. It is important to get to know the car you are
    driving before you hit the road as not all vehicles have headlights that
    automatically turn on when your wipers do. 

    1. Leave Space
      Between Cars

    Braking can be
    difficult when you are driving on wet roads, so leaving space between your car
    and the one in front of you is imperative. Heavy rain decreases visibility, so
    giving more space provides you with more time to react should the car in front
    of you brake suddenly or crash. 

    1. Avoid Driving
      Through Standing Water

    Heavy
    rain brings along the possibility of standing water on roads. Driving through
    water can not only damage your vehicle, but it can also be quite dangerous. If
    you see water covering the road ahead of you, it might be a good choice to take
    an alternate route or to slow down and carefully assess the situation. If you
    absolutely must pass over water and feel it is safe to do so, you should go as
    slow as possible and choose the highest point in the road to pass over because
    the water likely will be the shallowest there. 

    1. Know What to do
      if you Hydroplane

    Hydroplaning,
    a dangerous driving condition that can happen at any speed, occurs when a
    vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road surface and no longer have traction.     The first thing to do when this happens is stay calm. If
    you feel your car starting to hydroplane, let off the gas and gently steer
    towards the direction you want to go. It is very important not to swerve or     brake heavily
    when this happens as it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. A good way
    to avoid hydroplaning is to drive slowly, especially if you can see rain on the
    road.

     

    Following
    these safety tips will set you up for success while driving in heavy rain this
    summer. However, no matter how careful and prepared we are, accidents can still
    happen. Click the button below to learn more about how you can protect your
    vehicle and yourself in any traveling condition. 

  • 12 Last-Minute Holiday DIY Ideas

    12 Last-Minute Holiday DIY Ideas


    Did the Holidays Sneak Up on You This Year?

    The holidays have a way of seeming ages away only
    to pop up on the calendar the following week. While you may have had big plans
    to go all out decorating your home with festive decor, baking enough cookies to feed a
    small army, and finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list,
    time can slip away from even the most-prepared among us. Have no fear, though,
    as there is nothing some last-minute DIYing can’t fix.

    To help inspire some
    last minute crafting, we’ve put together 12 inexpensive and easy DIY projects you can
    make with items already in your home:

    Create the
    Perfect Gift

    There’s no better
    gift to receive than one that is handmade from someone you care about. Here are
    a few simple gift ideas for those you have left on your list:

    ●   Write a Letter – The holiday season is the
    perfect time to demonstrate how much you care for someone. Instead of buying a
    gift, take the time to write the person a letter that documents a special
    memory you share or communicate how much they mean to you.

    ●   Make Someone Their Favorite Treat – If you’re
    handy in the kitchen, consider making someone their
    favorite holiday treat. You can also make a handmade coupon offering to cook
    the person their favorite meal at a time of their choosing.

    ●   Make a No-Sew Flannel Blanket Scarf – Repurpose
    a much-loved flannel shirt or make a quick run to the fabric store and pick up
    a yard of flannel. Cut your material into a square and use a seam ripper to
    fray all four edges. Stylish, cozy and sure to be much appreciated by its
    recipient during the winter months!

    Pretty Up Your
    Gifts

    Perhaps your gifts
    are purchased or made but have yet to be wrapped or placed under the tree. Here are some fun ideas for recycling
    materials you may already have at home to make your gift wrapping more
    affordable and memorable:

    ●   Repurpose Your Old Newspapers– Instead of
    purchasing what can be costly holiday gift wrap, why not recycle your already-read newspapers into
    wrapping paper? This look will be especially popular with your well-read family
    members and friends.

    ●   Use a Paper Bag or Blank Wrapping Paper – There
    is nothing like a blank slate! This leaves room for creativity and is
    especially fun for kids. Use stamps, markers and crayons to
    create one-of-a-kind wrapping paper.

    ●   Add Yarn Bows – “Brown paper packages tied up
    with string…” –  you know how the rest
    goes! Wrap gifts a few times with old yarn and tie it up with a bow. This is perfect for those gifts that
    come in small packages.

    Trim the Tree

    You’ve brought the
    tree home from the tree farm (or
    dug it out of the attic) but have yet to adorn it with festive decorations. If
    you’re just starting out on your own (Christmas ornaments aren’t typically on
    the new-home registry) or are looking to add some
    fun new elements to your usual evergreen display, check out these simple ideas:

    ●   Spray Paint Toys – Small toys like figurines
    or dinosaurs make fun tree     decorations! Add a coat of silver or
    gold spray paint and hang them on the tree for a long-lasting memory.

    ●   String a Cotton Ball Garland – All you need is
    thread, a needle and cotton balls. Thread the needle through cotton balls and
    create a snow-like garland for your tree in minutes. Depending on your style,
    you can also use glue and glitter to add a little bling!

    ●   Make Pinecone Ornaments – Pine cones also make
    great last-minute ornaments for your tree. Just like the toys, you can spray
    paint them to make your tree pop! Have fun gathering them out of the backyard and ask kids to join in for a fun holiday memory.

    DIY Some Home Décor

    ●   Make Tin Can Candle Holders – Another eco-friendly décor idea is using old tin cans
    as candle holders. Add some ribbon around the
    outside and simply place a real or artificial candle on the inside.

    ●   Hang Paper Snowflakes – A classic activity for
    those of all ages is making paper snowflakes. Hang up your creations around
    your home and create an indoor winter wonderland.

    ●   Create a Frosted Wine Bottle Centerpiece – Using
    white spray paint you can create a frosted effect on any recycled wine bottle.
    Add some flowers and create a festive winter centerpiece!

    Planning to put up
    some lights as part of your last-minute decorating? Be sure to check out our
    tips for safe holiday lighting by clicking the button below. 

  • 7 Safety Tips for Driving in Freezing Rain

    7 Safety Tips for Driving in Freezing Rain

    Getting Ready to Drive in Winter
    Weather Means More Than Just Preparing for Snow

    If you live in a cold climate, then you know the stressful
    and – at times – heart pounding experience that comes with driving in winter weather conditions. While the
    thought of driving during the colder months may conjure the mental image of
    driving through several feet of snow, an equally hazardous condition
    arises when freezing rain starts falling.

     

    What is freezing rain?

    Freezing rain occurs when rain freezes on
    contact with a cold surface, forming a layer of ice. Sleet is similar but is
    actually a precipitation of raindrops that are frozen before they hit the
    ground.

     

    Is it dangerous to drive in freezing
    rain?

    When freezing rain hits the ground, it
    forms an icy layer on the road. This creates slippery driving conditions that make
    your vehicle prone to sliding and skidding. Unlike snow, which is highly visible to the
    eye, freezing rain can be undetectable and dangerous. Because these conditions
    are less visible, they can actually be more dangerous to drive in than more
    visible conditions such as snow.

     

    Safety tips for driving in freezing
    rain:

     

    1. Stay home if you can

    The best solution
    for dealing with any dangerous driving condition is opting to stay home and avoid driving, if possible.
    Check the weather forecast and determine if your schedule allows you to wait
    out the storm.

     

    2. Take your time

    If you do have to
    drive, drive slowly. Freezing rain creates
    a slippery layer of ice on the road which can be especially dangerous when braking, causing your car to skid.
    Drive slowly to avoid braking.

     

    3. Leave space

    Because braking
    is difficult when driving in freezing rain, be sure to give the vehicle in
    front of you plenty of extra space.

     

    4. Give yourself extra time

    Because you’ll be
    driving slowly, take the stress out of your trip by giving yourself
    extra time to get to your destination. On a similar note, respect sand and salt
    trucks and try not to get frustrated if you end up behind them on the road.
    They’re helping to make the road safer and driving behind them can actually make
    your journey less treacherous.

     

    5. Use your windshield wipers and fluid

    Freezing rain has
    a tendency of building up on your windshield, decreasing visibility in what is
    already a hazardous driving situation. Keep freezing rain from forming on your
    windshield by making use of your wipers and fluid.

     

    6. Equip your car with winter tires

    Designed with
    deeper treads, winter tires are specifically designed
    to make driving in snow and ice easier! If you live in a region that
    experiences regular snow and ice, you may find that snow tires are well worth the investment.

     

    7. Keep a safety kit handy

    When prepping your vehicle for winter, it’s
    important to remember to restock your winter safety kit. Some items you may want to consider having on hand
    include: a snow brush, a small     shovel, gloves, a hat and hand warmers.

     

    Follow these safety tips to combat freezing rain and make your winter
    travels as stress-free as possible. To learn more about protecting yourself and
    your vehicle in all driving situations, click on the button below!

  • 8 Ways to Help Lower Energy Costs

    When it comes to saving money, you might not
    realize there are simple adjustments you can make in your home right now to help you
    save big on your energy bills. Continue reading below to learn about eight ways
    to help lower your energy costs!&nbsp;1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <!–[endif]–>Check Seals on Windows,
    Doors, and Appliances One way to lower your energy bill is to make
    sure the seals on

  • Things to Know When Renting an Apartment in the Winter

    Winter in New York State can bring a slew of
    situations with your apartment that you might not think about during the warmer
    months of the year. When the snow falls and the temperature drops, questions
    about things like     snow removal, heating, property maintenance, and parking may come to
    mind. Continue reading for things to know when renting an apartment in the
    winter.

     

    Snow
    Removal

     

    When renting an apartment, snow removal
    arrangements are generally disclosed in your lease. Usually the property owner
    is responsible for shoveling the sidewalk, but in some cases,
    these tasks can be delegated to the tenant in the lease agreement. Snow removal laws vary from
    city to city, but there are often ordinances in place requiring a property
    owner to remove any snow from a public sidewalk within 24 hours of snowfall.
    If the snow is not removed within this timeframe, some municipalities reserve the
    right to hire someone to remove the snow and charge the property owner with the
    bill, as well as any applicable fines.

     

    You should carefully review your lease to see
    if there are any specifications about snow removal for your apartment. If
    shoveling responsibilities were delegated to you in your lease, you should
    familiarize yourself with your local ordinance for snow removal so that you can
    stay in compliance and avoid any potential consequences.

     

    If snow removal responsibilities were not
    mentioned in your lease and your walks aren’t being shoveled, contact your landlord to arrange a plan. In some cases, you
    may be able to save a few extra bucks on your rent if you agree to take over
    the shoveling duties.

     

    Heating

     

    Heating your apartment is something you might
    not think about during the warmer months and it can be hard to know how well your
    apartment will hold heat before the time comes to turn
    that thermostat up. If you find your apartment isn’t holding enough heat,
    contact your landlord to ensure the heat is on and everything is functioning as intended.

     

    If everything is up to par but you are still
    chilly, you can experiment with adding things like thermal curtains, weather
    stripping, and rugs to warm up your space. Space heaters are also an option for
    adding additional heat into your apartment, however they can pose fire risks.
    Make sure to read this article to understand how to safely use a
    space heater. 

     

    New York State law requires landlords to supply heat to tenants from October 1 to May
    31. According to the NYS Attorney General’s Office, if the outdoor
    temperature falls below 55°F between six a.m. and ten p.m., your apartment’s
    temperature must be heated to at least 68°F, and if the outdoor temperature
    falls below 40°F between the hours of ten p.m. and six a.m., your apartment
    must be heated to at least 55°F.

     

    Property
    Maintenance

     

    Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can all bring
    different hazards to the property you’re renting. Generally speaking, your
    landlord is responsible to repair damages to a rental
    property unless you are deemed solely responsible for the damage. Even so, it’s
    a good idea to be prepared to respond to situations like frozen pipes and damage from snow plows or ice
    before they occur.

     

    Familiarize yourself with the plumbing in your
    apartment, including how to turn off the water in the event of a frozen or burst pipe. You can take preventative measures
    to keep your pipes from freezing by regulating the temperature in your
    apartment. While you may be tempted to save a few extra bucks on heating, a pipe
    burst can cause thousands of dollars in damages.

     

    Avoid parking your vehicle under areas where
    icicles may form, and safely remove any icicles using a ladder and roof rake.
    If you’re finding icicles are frequently forming outside your apartment, you
    may want to alert your landlord as this may be evidence of an ice dam on your
    roof, which could lead to roof or wall damage.

     

    Street
    Parking

     

    Keep updated on local parking regulations
    around your unit. Most municipalities have seasonal rules in place prohibiting
    overnight street parking – either during winter months or directly following a
    certain amount of snowfall – to allow snowplows to fully clear the roads. If
    you frequently park on the street, you may need to find another long-term parking
    option to avoid any tickets and allow workers to fully plow your street.

     

    If you opt for street parking and your city
    only prohibits street parking after a certain amount of snowfall, stay updated
    on the weather forecast and be prepared to move your vehicle in case the snow accumulates overnight.

     

    As a matter of convenience, finding a long-term
    parking solution away from the street is preferable and can protect your
    vehicle against potential damage from snowplows or other vehicles on the road.

     

    Studies have found winter may be the best time
    to rent a new apartment due to lower demand. Check out our Tips for Renting an
    Apartment below!

  • Preparing Your Home for Winter

    Preparing Your Home for Winter

    The winter brings some wonderful things: beautiful natural
    scenery, cozy clothing, fuzzy blankets and holiday spirit. But winter
    in New York     is perhaps best known for cold and brutal weather conditions.
     

     

    Preparing your home for the colder months ahead of time can save
    you headaches later. The last thing you’ll want to deal with in the winter is
    an emergency… like frozen pipes at 2 am or heating vents that aren’t emitting
    warm air. Take the time to prepare the inside and outside of your home now
    before you’re stuck dealing with issues in below zero temperatures.  

     

    Inside

    These little fixes can really make a difference in the safety
    and comfort of your home during winter.

    • Make sure nothing is blocking
      any heating vents. This includes furniture, curtains, and pet beds. Look
      for anything that could block air flow. 
    • If you haven’t already,
      consider switching to a programmable thermostat that will let you adjust your
      system automatically. Setting the house to one temperature while you’re
      away or at work, and a more comfortable temperature when you know you’ll
      be home can help you save on your heating bills. You might also consider
      using an device that can be adjusted using a mobile app.
    • Set your fans
      to spin clockwise. Direction actually makes a difference! A clockwise spin
      will push rising warm air downward. Most ceiling fans have a switch that
      will allow you to change the direction they spin, so make sure that your
      fan is spinning clockwise if you want the room to be warmer. Switch it to
      counter-clockwise if you’re feeling too warm and need to cool down. 
    • Stay well
      stocked on basic supplies. There will be plenty of snowy or sub-zero
      degree days where either you can’t or won’t want to leave the house, so
      make sure you have the items that you may need on hand. Stock up on things
      like batteries, flashlights, nonperishable food items, bottled water, hand
      warmers, first aid kits, and insulated blankets. If possible, consider
      getting a generator in case of a prolonged period without
      electricity.   

    Outside

    The inside of your home isn’t the only place that needs a little
    maintenance before the cold settles in.

    • Put your
      outdoor items into storage. Equipment like lawn
      mowers and grills should be serviced and cleaned before you put them away.
      Outdoor furniture should be brought in (or covered if you don’t have room
      to store them inside). You will also want to bring in potted plants or
      flowering trees before the first frost.
    • Make sure
      you’re properly prepared for outdoor winter maintenance by investing in
      plenty of ice melt and some sturdy shovels.
      If you use a snow blower, get
      gas       and make sure to perform maintenance on it before the first
      snowfall.  Don’t wait until you need it to find out it’s not
      working properly.  
    • Have a
      contractor       check your roof to make sure it can handle the weight of heavy snowfall. This
      preventative measure will allow you the time to make repairs or invest in
      a roof rake. A roof rake can be used to pull off snow buildup, as it
      occurs, eliminating pressure on your roof which can lead to leaks and
      damage.
    • Help protect
      your roof during the winter by making sure your gutters are cleared out
      prior to snowfall. Clear gutters can help water (melted snow) drain off
      your roof. This step helps to reduce the chances ice dams. Ice dams occur
      when melted snow freezes in your gutters and seeps into and under your
      roof, causing       water damage. A water-repellent membrane can also help offset ice dams when
      installed under your roof.
    • Disconnect
      your outdoor hoses, and drain them. It’s also beneficial to disconnect
      outside water valves if possible. If you have an in-ground sprinkler
      system, you’ll want to make an appointment to have that drained as well.

     

    Heating

    Ensuring that all sources of heat are working at peak efficiency
    is crucial. This step will not only help prevent nights spent bundled in extra
    sweaters under a mountain of blankets, it can also save you money in the long
    run and keep you safer. 

    • Getting a routine maintenance
      check for your heating
      system is a good way to avoid any surprises when that first cold night
      hits. A professional can vacuum out your vents, check other essential
      other heating components, and take care of any necessary filter
      replacements.  
    • If you have a fireplace, wood
      stove, or pellet stove in your home, have it inspected and cleaned
      by a professional (ideally before the first frost of the season). Stocking
      up on firewood or pellets is also a good way to prepare for the winter.
      For fireplaces and wood stoves, hardwoods (oak, maple, elm, beech) work
      well as firewood. Ensure that any firewood you procure is seasoned. 

    Plumbing

    It’s important to ensure that your plumbing isn’t compromised
    during the colder months to avoid frozen or bursting pipes. 

    • Have a plumber come by to
      identify problem pipes
      that may be more prone to freezing or leaking. This advance warning allows
      you to take the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of winter
      related plumbing issues. 
    • Wrap pipes that have a history
      of freezing in heat tape or insulation sleeves. This measure can help
      prevent freezing by keeping them warm and reducing heat transfer.
    • Go over how to turn off your
      home’s water source with everyone who lives in the house. In the event of
      a pipe burst, not knowing how to turn off the water can result in excess
      flooding that could have been avoided.

     

    Proper Insulation

    Eliminating gaps or spaces where cold air can infiltrate your
    home, and properly insulating your home, will dramatically increase your heat
    retention during the winter and reduce your energy bill.

    • Check your attic,
      windows, doors, vents, doors, mail chutes, outlets, and basement for
      cracks or holes where drafts may be entering and caulk them. 
    • Winter is a
      great time to invest in thicker insulated curtains! They help to keep out
      cold air and reduce drafts. 
    • Place foam
      outlet protectors around outlets to prevent cold air from entering your
      home. 
    • You’ll want to
      check around the doors of your home to look for wear, and replace worn
      down weather stripping, caulk gaps, and potentially install storm
      doors. 

     

    Little Things to Remember

    Blasting the heat isn’t necessary, but you won’t want to
    completely neglect the fact that your home needs warmth and air circulation
    too. 

    • To prevent
      pipes that might be located in unheated areas of your home from freezing,
      you can keep a small trickle of warm water running.
    • Don’t shut
      your heat off when you’re out of the house. You don’t want it to get too
      cold in your home as this can create issues with pipes freezing.
    • During
      particularly cold nights or days open your cabinet doors to allow warm air
      to better circulate through your home. Especially in your kitchen and
      bathroom as this will help keep pipes warmed. You’ll just want to make
      sure there isn’t anything dangerous located in unsecured cabinets that
      children or pets could get into.

     

    Taking
    the extra time to prepare your home for the winter will help you avoid
    unexpected hassles. There is always a risk of an unexpected crisis, but with
    these precautionary tactics, you’ll have the power of proactivity behind you as
    you settle in for the colder months.

  • Budget-Friendly Holiday Décor Ideas – NYCM Insurance Blog

    Budget-Friendly Holiday Décor Ideas – NYCM Insurance Blog

    With the holidays upon us, you might be thinking of ways to get your home a little more festive without surpassing your holiday budget! Don’t worry, decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to break the bank! We have curated a list of budget-friendly holiday décor ideas for the whole family. Keep reading to learn more. 

    Salt Dough Ornaments


    A great way to add a personal touch to your holiday décor is by making salt dough ornaments. Typically, you will see these ornaments with handprints of the new born baby of the house, but they’re great for creating keepsakes of loved ones, whether they’re two-legged or four! They are also great to use as a blank canvas for kids to paint their own designs on. While they are often more geared toward children, there are a few steps that will require adult assistance. 

    Here’s what you’ll need:

    • 4 cups of flour (any flour will work)
    • 1 cup of salt
    • 1 ½ cups of warm water

    Combine the flour and salt until well incorporated and then slowly incorporate the warm water. Once it becomes difficult to stir with a spoon, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Start kneading the dough until everything is well combined and it feels smooth and easy to work with. It’s best to lay down a sheet of parchment paper before rolling out the dough to 1/8”, just like you would if you were making sugar cookies. Pro-Tip: Flour your rolling pin or add another sheet of parchment paper on top to avoid the dough from sticking. Cut out your shape of choice and don’t forget to cut out a small hole at the top of your ornament to account for the ribbon. With the cut dough on the parchment paper, remove the excess dough from around your cut ornaments and slide the parchment paper on to your baking sheet. Now is the time to chase your dog or child down to imprint their little paws (or any other design you might have in mind) into the dough. Set your oven to 300° and bake for about an hour. Once the ornaments are completely hard, they are ready. If they turn a little brown, they are overdone, but it’s nothing a little paint can’t fix! When cooled completely, decorate whatever way you like, attach your ribbon, and display your art piece by hanging on the tree! 

    Holiday Card Garland


    Do you find yourself with stacks of holiday cards from friends and family each year? There is an easy and fun way to display these for all to see. Hang some cooking twine, string, or whatever else you might have around the house in a place where you would like to display all of your cards. We would recommend hanging over a mantel if you don’t use your fireplace, under shelves, or high up in tall doorways. Drape your holiday cards over the twine in whatever order you choose, and just like that, you have a holiday card garland. Pro-Tip: For postcard style holiday cards, use small clothespins to clip them to your string for hanging!

    Festive Wine Glass Centerpieces


    An easy way to spruce up your centerpiece at the dinner table is by collecting any stemmed wine glasses that you aren’t planning to use. Fill the glass with mini ornaments or leftover ornaments that you might have lying around that will fit. Invert the glasses on your table and arrange in whatever way you would like. Lastly, top with a pillar or tea candle and you’re done! Pro-Tip: Use battery operated candles to prevent an accidental fire in your home.

    DIY Recycled Snowman


    Bring the fun of a season favorite inside with this recycled-can snowman! Here’s what you’ll need:

    • 1 large, empty coffee can
    • 1 medium sized soup can (smaller than your coffee can)
    • 1 small soup can
    • Paint & paint brush
    • Holiday ribbon
    • Hot glue gun or super glue

    Start by gluing your three clean, empty cans together with the largest can on the bottom and the can’s openings faced down. Once the glue has dried, paint your snowman whatever color you would like. When the base coat dries, it’s time to add the details: coal eyes and a smile, maybe an orange carrot nose, even a corncob pipe if you are feeling adventurous! Grab some leftover ribbon and give your new snowy friend a scarf! This craft would look great on a coffee table, in a child’s room, on the front porch, or even in the kitchen. 

    Personalized Ornaments


    A fun and customizable decoration, or even a gift to a friend, can be made by using clear ornaments. Here’s what you’ll need:

    • Clear ornaments (plastic or glass will work, just make sure you can remove the cap)
    • Various paint colors that you like 
    • Dried flowers, coffee beans, tinsel, or any small objects you have around the house that are meaningful or festive that will look nice in an ornament!

    DIY Tie Dye Ornaments

    Go to a well-ventilated area and place a base of cardboard for easy cleanup. Start by removing the cap from the top of your clear ornament and add paint into the opening at the top. You don’t need too much paint to completely cover the inside of the bulb. Try tilting the ornament all around (without spilling any paint) and maneuver the paint until the ornament is covered with the color you started with, then repeat that step with your next color. Once covered, set the bulbs up to dry completely (if they came in packaging they can dry in, set them back in there. If they didn’t, grab an empty egg carton). When dry, you can pop the metal top back onto the bulb and these DIY ornaments are complete! 

    Custom Favorites Bulbs

    Have a friend who loves coffee? Do you clip and dry flowers and are unsure of where to display them? Clear ornaments are a great way to encapsulate memories and things that make you happy during the holidays! Simply remove the cap of the ornament, and place small trinkets into the globe. Put the cap back on and display or gift the ornaments for the season!

    No room to adorn your tree with these new baubles? Try piling a few into a festive bowl for a centerpiece at the table, add to any garland you might have up in your home, or give some pizzazz to your wreath by adding a few homemade bulbs. 

    Since you’re already in the mood to decorate, you might consider tackling some holiday lighting. Make sure your lighting is safe by clicking the button below to learn more. 

  • What Is an Insurance Score?

     


    Learn
    More About Insurance Scores, How They Affect Your Premiums, and How to Raise
    Your Score.

     

    While most people are aware of what a credit
    score is and have a general idea of how it is calculated, fewer people
    understand what an insurance score is and how it impacts their premiums.

     

    What Is an Insurance Score?

     

    An
    insurance score – or insurance credit score – is a three-digit number assigned
    to you to predict the risk of an accident or insurance     claim in the future. Scores above
    770 are considered good, between 500 and 770 average, and below 500 poor.
    Different insurance carriers may have different models for assigning your
    insurance score, which directly affects the premium you pay. If you have a
    lower insurance score, you would likely pay a     higher
    premium     in the same way that if you have a lower credit score, you would pay a
    higher interest rate, and vice versa.

     

    How Is an Insurance Score
    Calculated?

     

    Different
    insurers have different ways of
    measuring your insurance score, but insurers generally utilize details from your
    credit history as well as risk and insurance claim data to measure your score. For
    auto insurance, someone with a clean driving record may be more likely to
    obtain a higher insurance score than someone with a history of traffic
    infractions or     accidents, but for homeowners
    insurance, your driving history won’t necessarily have any effect. Your credit
    information plays a role in determining your insurance score: if you have a
    history of making your payments on time and have little outstanding debt, your
    insurance score will reflect that. Your insurance score can also
    vary as you age or move locations.

     

    How Can I Raise My Insurance
    Score?

     

    While
    it is possible to raise your insurance score, doing so can take some time. If
    your insurance score is low, it could mean you have some missed or late payments
    affecting your credit score. Ensuring you     pay your
    bills
    on time is a good step towards raising your credit score and consequently, your
    insurance score.

     

    A clean
    driving record is also an important factor in raising your insurance score and
    lowering your premium for auto insurance. If you have a history of traffic
    infractions, setting a new trend, free of traffic tickets and accidents, will
    benefit your score over time. Consider taking a defensive driving course to
    sharpen your skills.

     

    While
    some auto claims are unavoidable,
    it is possible to put yourself in a position where they are less likely to
    occur.

     

    ●      
    Perform Regular Maintenance Check-ups on Your Vehicle: Keep an eye on the parts of your vehicle most susceptible to wear and
    tear. Make sure your tire tread isn’t worn, especially in the
    winter when driving conditions can be more challenging. Beyond inspecting the
    tread, rotating your tires every 5,000 miles can help guarantee even wear
    across your tires. It’s also a good idea to regularly check that your brakes
    are functioning as intended. Having proper brakes can be the difference between an
    automobile accident or a close call. As a rule of thumb, having your automobile
    serviced by a certified mechanic at least once a year can be a good step toward    s making sure your vehicle is operating at its best.

    ●      
    Shelter Your Vehicle: If possible, shelter your vehicle in a garage or carport to
    minimize the likelihood of damage.  While
    falling tree limbs and hailstorms can pose a threat to the body of your
    vehicle, it’s also more likely that you will avoid vandalism and theft if you
    are able to enclose your vehicle in a garage. If you are unable to cover your
    vehicle, consider parking away from trees and always make sure your vehicle is
    locked. It can be hard to predict the extent of damage a storm may bring, but
    keeping your vehicle sheltered can give you some added peace of mind.

    ●      
    Travel Roads You Are Familiar With: By
    sticking to driving the routes you are familiar with, you are less likely to
    encounter any dangerous surprises that might turn up along the way, like
    unexpected sharp turns, areas prone to flooding, or other hazards. While it’s
    impossible to completely negate the inherent risks of driving, sticking to the
    roads you know will give you the best chance at arriving to point A from point
    B without incident.

     

    After learning about what an insurance score
    is, you may now be interested in finding out what your premium might be based
    on it! Click the button below to contact an NYCM Insurance agent near you
    today!

  • Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Weather

    Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Weather


    Winter Weather in New York is Inevitable. Read These Tips to Best Prepare Your Vehicle for Slippery Conditions.

     

    If you’ve experienced a winter in the northeast,
    then you know how challenging driving can be. Between black ice, slush, snow
    flurries and blizzards, there is much to be alert to while hitting the road
    during the winter. Being prepared for anything is key, and this preparation should
    start early in the fall.

     

    Here are a few things
    you might want to consider to get your vehicle prepared for a tough     New York winter:

     

    Have Your Vehicle’s Battery Tested

    A car that won’t start
    is one story, but a car that won’t start in the winter is a completely
    different story. Have your vehicle’s battery tested early-on to ensure you
    aren’t stranded with an inoperable vehicle in below freezing conditions    . If possible, charge your battery often during cold weather for added
    precaution. Not sure how to jumpstart your vehicle? Click
    here    .

     

    Consider Having Your Vehicle Undercoated.

    While the salt used on New York roads is
    necessary to keep us safe by melting ice, it is especially tough on our vehicles. Having your
    vehicle undercoated each season can lessen the damages caused by salt and
    result in a longer lasting and better working vehicle during and after the
    winter weather.

     

    Upgrade
    to Winter Tires

    As someone wise once said, the only thing
    between you and the road is your tires. Good tires
    can make a dramatic difference in safe travel on snow and ice-covered roads.
    Consider changing out your tires for studded or snow tires that are designed to
    handle winter conditions much better than standard tires. PRO TIP: buy rims for
    your snow tires and avoid an additional fee for placing the tires on your
    standard rims each year. To learn more about winter tires,     click
    here    .

     

    Check the Capability of Your Vehicle’s Heating System

    You don’t want to be without your vehicle’s
    heating system, especially in the dead of winter. You’ll
    thank yourself in the end when you have a technician look over your     heating system and resolve any issues before the winter weather
    starts.

     

    Restock and Load Your Winter Safety Kit

    Having a snow brush,
    small shovel, gloves, hat, and hand warmers are all crucial items to add to
    your standard vehicle safety kit during this time of year    .
    For a complete list of items to keep in your vehicle’s winter safety kit, click
    here    .

     

    Check
    and Swap Fluids

    Thankfully there are
    plenty of fluids designed specifically for winter weather. Antifreeze and
    windshield washer fluid are two you will definitely want to ensure are full for
    the upcoming winter, and also plan to have extra on hand for when you run out.

     

    Driving in a NY winter is challenging to say
    the least — but being prepared ahead of time makes all the difference. Adequate
    tires, proper fluids, heat and a stocked safety kit are essential while driving
    during this time of year. To learn more about ways to winterize your vehicle,
    click the button below.