Home Safety Archives - Page 3 of 3

8 Things to Know Before Purchasing Homeowners Insurance

Buying a home is one of the greatest decisions that you make in your life, which makes buying homeowners insurance equally as important. Having a suitable insurance policy or protection plan for your phone, computer, or other personal items is essential for covering your investment, right? So why wouldn’t you make sure that you got the same out of your homeowner’s insurance?

Just in case this is the first time you have gone through this process, there are several critical things that you want to keep in mind when shopping around for a fitting insurance policy. Here are a few tips that will help you on your insurance hunting adventure.

1. Know What Your Home is Worth

Has it been some time since you have had your home inspected? No better time than the present, especially if you are purchasing homeowners insurance. Get an exact value from a home builder or a home assessment company so that you can get a better idea of how much you need to insure your home for. This will also put into perspective in the worst possible scenario, what it would cost to replace the entire house, from the foundation up.

2. Find Out Exactly How to File a Claim

In the painstaking midst of something awful happening to your home, the last thing that you want to do is get put on hold. Know exactly who you need to talk to, what information you need to file an insurance claim, and what to do in the event of a home emergency.

3. Use Simple Tactics and Tools That Can Save You Money on Insurance

One great way that you can save money on a homeowners insurance policy is to take advantage of some simple devices, that many don’t think of. Things that could potentially make your policy cheaper are:

-Deadbolt locks
-A home security system or alarm
-New, working fire alarms and sprinklers
-Safe wiring and updated electrical systems
-Being located near a fire and/or police department

Ask your insurer about these to see if you can have money taken off of your premium.

4. Take Inventory of All of the Valuable Items in Your House

Keep an inventory of all of the valuable items in your home, such as jewelry or fine artwork, and the costs associated with those items to the best of your ability. Anything that is important to you or costly should be catalogued somewhere safe so that you have an idea of the possessions you should insure in your home.

5. Shop Around Before You Buy a Plan

Don’t buy through the first insurance company or buy the first plan you come across. Make sure you shop around before you are absolutely certain of which kind of plan is adequate for your particular needs.

6. Compare Insurance Plan Deductibles

Part of shopping around is in comparing deductibles. The deductible is the maximum out-of-pocket costs that you would pay in the event that something disastrous happens to your house or personal property. Compare prices to make sure that you aren’t overpaying and that you are financially capable of paying your deductible.

7. Note the Environmental Risks That Your Premium is Based On

Think about some of the environmental factors that would put your home at a higher risk for a claim or an unfortunate incident. This is where factors like neighborhood, crime rate, natural disasters specific to your area, and distance from freeways or congested areas would apply.

8. Understand What You Are Covered For

You would be surprised how often this one gets overlooked. Homeowners insurance policies can look like an entire novel’s worth of information, which makes it even more critical that you know exactly what is included in your policy. Ask your insurer or agent any questions that you might have on the policy, and if you need some added reassurance have an attorney review your policy.

By abiding by these simple eight precautionary tips, you will be well on your way to purchasing the most appropriate coverage for your new home!

Prevent a ‘Fall’ Out: Prepare Your Home for Autumn

Towards the beginning of September, people begin to notice that change is in the air. The air gets colder, the days get shorter, and the leaves begin to evolve into a kaleidoscopic splendor. The Autumn season is quickly approaching, and homeowners must take the proper precautions to ensure their home will survive the sometimes harsh weather conditions of the later months in the year. Here are 10 tips for home maintenance that will prepare you for fall in New England:

1. Check Your Roof and Chimney

Start by cleaning off all the dead leaves and debris, then check for any damaged or loose shingles that may become a problem later on if they are left without being repaired. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional to ensure that it is ready for the firewood that you will burn as the cold weather sets in. Make sure that you have stocked up on firewood as well, especially if you are gathering your own.

2. Repair Your Siding, If Necessary

As with your roof, make sure that the siding on your home is not damaged, and if it is, it’s important to fix the problem before the weather changes and you are no longer able to do so. You can try to fix it yourself, or call in a professional.

3. Reinforce Windows and Doors

This is one of the most important things you can do to not only prevent drafts and leaks but also to save energy, and therefore, money. Use caulk to seal up gaps along the frame of your doors and windows, which allows you to keep warm air inside and avoid a loss of energy.

4. Clean the gutters and check water drainage

Make sure that your gutters are free of dead leaves and debris, and that water has a clear path from your roof, through the downspouts and out onto the ground. Otherwise, large pools of water could collect on your roof in the fall and lead to leaks.

5. Take Apart Garden Hoses

Separate the hose from the outside spigot and turn off the faucet. Be sure that you drain the hose and store it in a dry place. This is to prevent the water that is left over from freezing and damaging the hose.

6. Check Your Sprinklers and Irrigation System

As with garden hoses, you may have to drain your sprinklers to prevent freezing when the cold weather sets in. Speak to a professional to check exactly what you should do, as this can prove to be taxing.

7. Inspect Landscaping

Check that your trees are trimmed and your plants have protective mulch around them to be ready for when the frost sets in. Also take note of any tree branches that extend over your home or driveway. Weak or dying branches are most susceptible to breaking and landing on valuable property; especially when weight is added, such as snowfall.

8. Test and/or Replace Home Protection Devices

Make the start of the Autumn season your designated time to check the batteries in all home safety devices, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. They should be equipped with fresh batteries and tested at least twice a year.

9. Store Away Seasonal Furniture

Lawn chairs, picnic tables, and other outdoor furniture should be stored away in a dry, undisturbed area to prevent weather damage.

10. Organize Your Garage/Shed

With all of your summer furniture and equipment being stored away for the season, things can get pretty tight for storage. Take the time to organize and store away your summer items and remove any liquids that can freeze during the fall/winter months.

*Bonus Tip

Winter isn’t the only season for hazardous driving conditions. Throughout Autumn, roadways will inevitably be covered with leaves that fall as the weather turns colder. After rainfall, wet leaves on the road can be just as slippery and dangerous as snow. Before the leaves even begin to change color, always review and renew, if necessary, your automobile insurance policy to ensure you’re protected from any unforeseen incidents that may occur during the latter months of the year. Call Waitte’s Insurance Agency at (860) 886-1961 or click here to double check your current coverage.

12 Tips to Keep Halloween Festive & Safe

A bit mystical, magical and fun, Halloween draws all kinds of kids in search of candy treats and harmless gags. Unfortunately, this popular childhood staple could run the risk of turning into a nightmare. Taking a few simple precautions can keep the excitement alive and the haunting all in fun without compromising the safety of your home or your little ones.

TRICK-OR-TREAT SAFETY

1. Un-Mask

Non-toxic face paint makes for a safer costume accessory than a mask. While masks can provide a realistic look, they can limit and block vision, creating a risk of injury. They also hold the potential of restricting a child’s breathing, as some masks can be too tight and constrictive to allow adequate breathability. There are many online tutorials available on how to create the perfect face paint look for your desired costume.

2. Know the Route

While an adult should ALWAYS accompany younger children, be sure older trick-or-treaters know the route to safe treats. Review safety and emergency protocol with all children before the big night.

3. Get Glowing

Choose costumes which are bright and easily seen in darkened areas. Add reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags to increase visibility for passing motorists.

4. Share the Wealth

Host a candy swap at home to exchange favorites among siblings or a few friends. With the loot spread out, use this as an opportunity to discard items with signs of tampering, such as spoiled, unwrapped or looking otherwise suspicious.

PUMPKIN CARVING SAFE PRACTICES

1. Set the Stage

Be sure the carving or decorating area is clean and well lit. The gooey mess of pumpkin innards creates slippery surfaces which affect the stability of both the pumpkins and tools.

2. Get Crafty

For younger celebrators, gather the art supplies and let them decorate safely without the sharp carving tools. Paint, permanent markers and glue on accessories such as pom-poms and yarn make for one-of-a-kind creations.

3. Choose Tools Wisely

Specialty tools work best to carve those infamous pumpkin characters, according to Consumer Reports. Small, easy-to-handle tools designed to tackle this gooey job decrease risk of injury.

4. Extinguish the Flame.

Consider an alternate lighting source for those beloved jack-o-lanterns. Flashlights and battery-operated candles offer safer glowing creations than flamed candles. If you insist on that genuine candle flame look for your jack-o-lantern, never leave lit flames unattended and always extinguish them properly before the end of the evening.

HOLIDAY HOME PROTECTION

1. Be the Light

Though it may slightly hinder the creepy mood and atmosphere, replace burned out light bulbs and light your home’s exterior to increase visibility. This allows residents to more clearly see any potential pranksters that may be tempted to pull a ‘trick’ rather than ask for a treat.

2. Park It

Park your vehicles in a garage (if possible) to deter pranksters. If a garage is not available, park your vehicles as closely to your home as possible. Never keep valuables inside your vehicles on Halloween night.

3. Lock It Up

While continually locking the front door in between visitors should go without saying, it offers protection for your home when you are distracted by the festivities. Be sure to keep all additional entryways locked, especially while handing out candy at your main entrance.

4. Be Alert

Even amid the jovial atmosphere, be certain to keep your eyes open to your surroundings. Consider handing out treats in the driveway for better sight lines and home security.

Preventing a Halloween nightmare is as simple as following the suggestions listed above. Waitte’s Insurance Agency encourages people of all ages to enjoy all facets of the holiday but to do so responsibly!

In the unlikely event of a natural disaster or your home is vandalized, do you know what your current Homeowners Insurance policy covers? Call us today at (860) 886-1961 to review your coverage.

Norwich CT House Insurance: Protect Your Home This Winter

With freezing cold temperatures, you need to make sure to protect your home. In addition to having Norwich CT House Insurance, you must take the necessary steps to keep your home safe and ready for winter. Your best bet is to safeguard against the following winter complications, but in even a worst-case scenario, having proper Norwich CT house insurance will lessen any stressful situation that may arise.

Here are some common winter problems and how to protect against them to keep your Norwich CT House Insurance rates as low as possible.

Frozen Pipes:

Pipes that freeze can crack from expanding ice, creating a world of complications for your plumbing. One way to prevent frozen pipes is to fully insulate them with foam insulation. If insulation is not updated or even plausible for your home, schedule regular inspections of all pipes during the winter months.

Cold Internal Temperature:

Heat always finds a way to escape from your home in wintertime. Proper insulation is the best defense against this from happening. Updated weather stripping around areas that allow cold air in will also help to avoid having to crank up your thermostat.

Roof Damage:

Snow and fallen tree branches can be detrimental to your roof. Weak tree branches over your home that accumulate heavy amounts of snow are likely to crack and fall onto your roof, causing leaks or even collapses. This can become a nightmare in regards to your Norwich CT house insurance premium. Trim branches hanging over your roof and always clear your roof of snow immediately after a storm. Snow that lingers on a roof for too long can turn into ice, making it increasingly difficult to remove later.

Weathering:

Strong storms can strip the paint on your house. Make sure to use weather-resistant paint to keep it looking fresh all year long. If you plan on putting your house on the market in the future, weathered paint can be a major deterrent for potential buyers.

Damage to the Landscape:

Winter storms can kill plants and knock over unsteady trees. Bring any potted plants that you wish to keep throughout the winter inside to save them from cold temperatures. Surround and cover additional outdoor plants or gardens with mulch so they are not extensively damaged by frost. You may also want to consider laying down a wintertime fertilizer onto your lawn to ensure your grass returns greener than ever come spring.

Formation of Ice Dams:

Ice dams can easily form when the parts of your roof near the top are warmer than the rest of it. The snow in these areas will melt faster and then refreeze toward the eaves. Invest in a roof rake to get rid of the snow before this can happen. Also, keep downspouts clear of debris. Adding attic insulation will keep heated air from getting to the roof through the attic.

Long-time New Englanders know the trials of up-keeping their home during the bitter winter months. With these simple precautionary measures, you can avoid a stressful ‘brain-freeze’ and keep your Norwich CT house insurance at a low, affordable rate. Are you due for a homeowners insurance review or wish to compare your current rates?

Don’t overpay! Receive your FREE rate quote for Norwich CT House Insurance HERE!

Prevent Flood Damage to Your Home with 6 Simple Tips

Traditionally in New England, the period of time that leaves your home the most susceptible to flood damage is during the rainy spring season. Most often in March and April, consistent downpours and minimal sunshine can create a world of problems for homeowners. But as all Connecticut locals will tell you, if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few minutes. As unpredictable as the four seasons can be in this region of the U.S. there are always preventative measures for protecting your home, automobiles, and of course, your loved ones during unfavorable weather conditions. In regards to an excess of water threatening your home, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind in the effort to prevent flood damage.

6 Simple Ways You Can Prevent Flood Damage to Your Home

Shovel Snow Away From Your Foundation:

This issue is particularly relevant to New England homeowners. With how drastically temperatures can rise during the transition into spring, snow mounds leftover from previous winter storms can melt at an expedited rate. Move all remaining snow away from your home so that it doesn’t melt into your foundation and cause damage.

Repair/Protect Your Roof:

Any necessary repairs to your roof should be made well ahead of the rainy season. Simply putting a bucket underneath a leak in your ceiling only masks the problem. Leaks that may appear to be small will inevitably get bigger and cause extensive damage to your roof. Schedule a maintenance check on your roof and fix any and all problematic areas. Not to be used in place of repairs, but large tarps can provide a temporary solution to cover weak spots that are prone to leakage. Investing in a rubber roof underlayment could also prevent widespread damage.

Clear Gutters:

Gutters clogged with debris, such as leaves and mud, are completely useless. The main purpose of gutters on your home is to detract rainfall away from your foundation and prevent flood damage. To allow water to properly flow and escape through your gutters, make sure to remove large clumps of debris and clear away blockages using a garden hose if possible. This project will typically require a ladder so ALWAYS use caution when cleaning your gutters.

Invest in Sandbags:

Burlap bags filled with sand can work wonderfully for blocking water from entering your home. Piling large mounds of these bags around every inch of your home’s foundation isn’t necessary. However, sandbags can be very effective in keeping water away from easily accessible entrances to your home, such as basement doors.

Elevate Expensive Equipment/Possessions:

During any threat of flooding, devise a plan for certain electronics, furniture, appliances and other valuable items to be raised out of areas that are prone to flooding. For larger items such as washing machines, this may be a difficult task, but raised platforms for temporary placement can protect many of your pricier belongings. All electrical items should also be unplugged during a flooding occurrence.

Document All Possessions:

Irreplaceable items such as gifts with sentimental value should always be in a waterproof and elevated location. For possessions that can be replaced but are expensive in nature, properly document and appraise them so that they can be submitted in an insurance claim in the event that flooding damages them. Certain items may not be covered under your current homeowners insurance policy, so you may want to consider looking into Personal Articles coverage for particular valuables.

Connecticut and its surrounding states must always be on alert for ever-changing weather conditions. Whether you are stocking up on salt for the winter or collecting sandbags to prevent flood damage, your home is one investment that needs continuous tender, love and care. Stop a disaster before it even starts by not only preparing your home for unforeseen storms and flooding but also with sufficient insurance coverage.

If you’re in the market for a new homeowners insurance policy or you simply wish to review your current policy, Waitte’s Insurance Agency is always there! Maintain peace-of-mind for your home and family by calling our office at (860) 886-1961.

Avoid Common, Yet Costly Homeowner’s Insurance Claims

So you say you’ve never had to file any homeowner’s insurance claims. (knock on wood!) If you fall into this category, then you’re one of the fortunate ones. However, as long as you’re aware that disasters can occur at any moment, you’re more prone to take precautions to lessen the blow whenever the need to file a claim may pop up. Even the most common damages or injuries that occur inside or around the home can be minimalized with a few simple preventative measures. Check out some of the ways you can decrease the likelihood of having to file a claim on your home.

Prevent Damage, Injury, and Costly Homeowner’s Insurance Claims Against…

Weather:

With a lack of caution, unpredictable weather such as wind, rain, hail, snow and other storms can force the need to file homeowner’s insurance claims.

– Purchase and install storm doors and windows. Always keep them securely locked during any type of storm.

– Prepare proper storage for outdoor furniture, lawn ornaments, potted plants, or any light-weight yard items. Things such as deck tables or potted plants can not only get damaged themselves but can become dangerous when thrown around by extremely high winds.

– Lightning can also pose a threat. Install lightning rods to avoid as many lightning strikes as possible. Use surge protectors and unplug unnecessary electronics during a storm.

– During the winter, accumulated snow can wreak havoc on homes, especially those with flat roofs. Clear off your roof any time there is snowfall. Just a foot of snow can weaken a flat roof to the point of collapse.

– Hire a licensed professional to trim any tree branches that hang over your home. Branches can become weakened and snap from intense winds or added weight from snowfall.

Water:

Water damage is not typically covered by standard homeowner’s insurance; therefore, you often need a separate policy.

– Rain gutters should be relatively new and installed securely. Aim gutter reservoirs as far away from your home’s foundation as possible. Clear all gutters of leaves, mud and other debris at least twice a year to allow water to flow easily.

– Regularly inspect outdoor water hoses, spouts and other things that discharge water. Pay attention to details while looking for wet spots or leaks.

– Have your roof inspected annually, as the smallest leak can quickly escalate into a much larger problem.

– Seek professional assistance at the first sight of leaks coming from your sinks, toilets, showers, or other indoor piping. Especially in regards to plumbing, repairs will only increase in cost and aggravation the longer you put them off.

Fire:

Fire damage to your home can be devastating, but it is also one of the most preventable disasters.

– Unplug electronics when they are not in use.

– Damaged electrical cords should be replaced immediately.

– Keep furnaces, space heaters, fireplaces, and other heat sources properly maintained and far away from flammable objects and furniture. Never leave heating sources or flames, such as candles, unattended.

– For smokers, try to smoke outside whenever possible. In case you do smoke indoors, thoroughly extinguish your cigarette/cigar

and its ashes with water. Never smoke when you are sleepy.

– Set a timer with an alarm whenever using an oven, stovetop or grill to remind you that it is on. Never wear loose-fit clothing when cooking.

– Keep all lighters and flame sources stored away and out of reach of children.

– Connecticut state law requires smoke detectors to be installed on each floor of your home. As an extra precaution, install these detectors in each bedroom as well. Test them every month to make sure they are working properly.

– Store fire extinguishers at each end of the house. Check their gauges monthly and replace them right away if they are inoperable. (see image on right)

Accidents:

If someone is injured on your property, you may be liable depending on the circumstances.

– Clear all ice/snow from walkways and doorsteps during the winter.

– Rearrange electrical chords, furniture or other objects that can be a tripping hazard.

– Replace any loose or broken floorboards, stairs, handrails or driveway divots that can cause injury.

– Swimming pools should be completely fenced in with a locking gate.

– Properly secure any hanging decorations or furniture that can potentially fall and injure someone.

– Dog owners can be liable if their pet bites someone on your property. The best solution for this is to properly train your dog to not be aggressive, but if that is not in the cards, keep your dog fenced in your yard and display a “Beware of Dog” sign on the fence.

Prevention is key! It doesn’t require a lot of effort to safeguard your home and side-step the most common homeowner’s insurance claims. In some instances, your home may require additional coverage in the form of a Personal Umbrella. If you believe this might be the case for you, please contact us today for a quote!

Get your FREE Personal Umbrella or Homeowner’s Insurance quote by clicking here!

Firearm Safety in the Household

A firearm of any kind is a very serious piece of equipment. For gun owners, firearm safety should be a common sense ideology. However, the majority of gun accidents in the household occur from lack of education or not taking the proper precautions. Whether you’re already a gun owner or looking to become one, you always want to avoid a potentially deadly scenario in your home by using extreme caution and abiding by basic firearm safety protocol. This could mean the difference between protecting your family from home invaders and accidentally harming someone that you love or an innocent bystander.

Firearm Safety Tip Checklist

Licensing:

It doesn’t matter whether you purchase from a gun show, pawn shop, or online, you MUST register your firearm and obtain the necessary licensing. This is a legal requirement not only in case your gun goes missing, but to ensure accountability in the event your gun is used in a criminal act. Connecticut locals are strongly encouraged to research the state’s required licenses before purchasing their first gun.

Safety Courses:

Inquire at your local gun ranges, as most of them provide the customary training and safety courses for appropriately operating a firearm. As important as it is to earn the proper certifications, it’s even more crucial to pay attention and truly learn what is needed to keep you and your family safe with a gun in your home.

Storage:

Preferably in a locked vessel such as a safe, hide your firearm securely and out of reach of children or those who it is not registered to. Always keep your gun unloaded with the safety trigger on. Additionally, ammunition should be hidden separately away from the gun. These practices will help avoid an accidental discharge and will make it more difficult for intruders to get their hands on a loaded weapon.

Handling the Firearm:

Safely handling a firearm will be discussed in-depth in your training courses, but we still want to stress the topic. Guns should always be in “safety” mode whenever they are in your possession. Furthermore, your shooting index finger should never hover around the trigger until the moment you intend to shoot it. Always keep the barrel of the gun pointed down towards the ground until you’re ready to fire. *Rule of thumb – NEVER point your weapon at anything you do not intend to destroy just in case of an accidental discharge.

Cleaning the Firearm:

This is significant for a few reasons. A poorly maintained and dirty firearm will not always fire correctly. Because of this, many misfires and backfires can occur, causing damage to the weapon and possible injury to anyone around. Any firearm should be thoroughly cleaned inside and out before each use. And just like how it is suggested to be stored, your gun should always be unloaded with the safety on whenever you are cleaning it. Even if you remove the magazine, a single bullet may be loaded into the chamber of the gun; so double, triple and quadruple check to ensure it is completely unloaded.

When to Take It Out:

Most people purchase a gun to protect their families and homes from criminals in or around their property. The hope is that the weapon will never need to be used for this reason, but an immediate threat is one of only a few instances in which it should be taken out. The other reasons would be to clean it or to go shooting at a gun range. Whenever transporting a firearm to a gun range, it should be secured in a locked vessel and stored in the trunk of your car.

Who Should Have Access to it?

Only those with the required licenses and training should ever access your personal firearm. Never lend it out to anyone unless it is within the confines of a range. No weapon should ever be put into the hands of a child. Children are more likely to be killed or injured by a firearm accidentally than from a criminal act. It may be tempting to some to show off their newly-purchased handgun, but it should only be handled by its owner.

Firearm safety is the number one responsibility any gun owner to avoid harm to themselves, their families and their property. Yes, gun incidents can also lead to damage to your home, which in turn, leads to unnecessary insurance claims. Accidents in the home can arise out of nowhere, so you don’t want to just protect yourself physically but also financially with sufficient homeowner’s insurance. In the market for new coverage? We’re always happy to help!

Stay Cautious With These Firework Safety Tips

Between Memorial Day, Father’s Day and the 4th of July, there is a lot to celebrate in the summer months. Many of these occasions call for certain traditions, such as grilling outside with family and friends and even setting off fireworks. While fireworks are illegal in Connecticut for personal use (except for sparklers and fountains), they are still legal in other states for small-party celebrations. We would never encourage the illegal use of these explosive displays in our state, but in the event that you find yourself visiting an area where it’s permitted, we’d like to provide a number of firework safety tips to prevent disaster throughout the summer festivities.

Firework Safety Isn’t Only a Precautionary Measure, it’s a Responsibility!

They are exploding devices, period:

And as such, they are very dangerous and can cause serious injury. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to find a public display. Many towns host their own state-approved shows, spending thousands of dollars on top-of-the-line fireworks that you can’t buy at the fireworks stands. So gather the family and enjoy the sizzling, awe-inspiring displays together.

Fireworks damage property and onlookers:

Every year, fire marshalls around the United States report house and grass fires caused by fireworks. You could be liable and even charged with a felony if a fire, property damage or personal injury results from a firework (legal or illegal).

Pets aren’t too keen on fireworks displays:

It’s recommended not to bring your pet to a fireworks display or to shoot fireworks near your pets. Dogs especially have ultra-sensitive hearing and loud bursts can cause heightened anxiety for them. At home, before it gets dark, put your pet in an interior room with no windows so they can’t see (and hopefully hear less) of the fireworks. Many pets become afraid of the explosions and escape from their yards on holidays that involve fireworks, so check to make sure your pet is wearing an ID tag. In addition, it is common courtesy to warn any neighbors with pets that you will be setting off fireworks in the area. This will allow them to take the proper precautions for their pets ahead of time.

Pay attention to fire bans in your area:

Local television weather stations usually start reporting fire bans a few days before the holiday, and you can always call your local fire station. Always abide by posted warnings and bans in your local area.

Read all warning labels:

If you insist on creating your own fireworks displays, read the labels and the caution warnings to know how the fireworks will perform prior to lighting them. A responsible adult should ALWAYS supervise any fireworks. Everyone nearby should wear safety glasses. Needless to say, fireworks and alcohol don’t mix. So do your fireworks show first, then have a celebratory beer afterward.

Never give fireworks to children:

Enough said!

Don’t get crazy:

Remember the rule of thumb – lighting only one firework at a time, and never try to relight a “dud” firework that didn’t ignite the first time. Have a large bucket of water to douse any fires just in case. Once you have lit a single firework, back away from it quickly but carefully, as not to trip and fall in the process. And yes, we have to say it… fireworks should only be used OUTdoors and at least 50 yards away from any cars and homes.

Don’t get creative, either:

NEVER make your own fireworks. Those without the proper expertise in explosive chemicals and devices can put themselves in extreme danger. Many fingers have gotten blown off and serious injuries have occurred as a result of do-it-yourself fireworks. And don’t shoot fireworks into containers or at each other. Firework safety is about abiding by the posted instructions and not tempting fate.

We hope you take all of the above firework safety information into strong consideration to ensure happiness and safety for all of your loved ones during the summer holidays. To all Americans, we want your Independence Day to be without incident and filled with joy!

In addition to providing quality and cost-effective insurance rates for Norwich and surrounding residents, we also want our customers to stay informed on the latest news, safety, and helpful everyday tips. One of the ways we do this is through social media, so be sure to check out the Waitte’s Insurance Agency Facebook Page!