5 Tips for Getting on the Road Quickly this Winter

Posted on December 19, 2016February 19, 2017 by AgentInsure

Winter weather can make your morning commute more challenging than normal. Simply getting into your car and driving away safely often takes more time than allotted during the wee hours of the morning. Frigid temperatures and wintry precipitation can prevent you from getting into your car and getting it started. Let’s look at five tips that will help the residents of Federal Way, WA get on the road quicker this winter.

1. Use cooking spray, silicone spray, or a door lock lubricant regularly.

Make sure you coat the door’s rubber seal at least once a week, wiping off excess drips with a paper towel. Doors and locks freeze shut when water seeps in and turns to ice. A bit of oil sprayed in the locks will help repel water. If adverse weather threatens, apply more frequently.

2. Cover the windshield.

This can make a big difference in certain conditions. Light snow is easy to fluff away, but thick wet snow may require a bit of muscle to remove. Keeping the windshield covered can save significant scraping time, but it does not prevent the need to clear remaining windows before driving off.

3. Keep your battery and engine ready for ignition.

When the temperature is below freezing, your battery loses a huge percentage of its cranking power. Less crank and a cold engine can make starting your car next to impossible. Parking in a garage is ideal. Next on the list is to find out if your car is equipped with a plug to keep the essentials warm through the night. If not, there are heating blankets made to cover the battery and engine. If street parking prevents the use of a plug, even using a thick blanket can make a slight difference. Be sure to remove blankets and plugs before starting the engine.

4. Let your engine warm up.

Modern cars can be driven right away, but it doesn’t mean it is what’s best for them. Even letting run as you scrape away excess snow. This allows the oil to warm up and do its job more efficiently.

5. Use the right oil for your region.

Engine oil thickens in extremely cold temperatures. This makes it hard for your engine to turn over. Multi-weight oil is good if temperatures are moderate. Your owner’s manual or trusted local mechanic can guide you on oil needs in the Federal Way, WA area.

Winter Storms: How to Protect Your Home

Posted on October 20, 2016November 19, 2016 by AgentInsure

The thought of winter might bring to mind a white wonderland complete with icicles hanging from the roof, a white blanket of snow covering the ground and warm baked cookies. Although winter scenes like these make winter wonderful, snow storms can put your property at risk for serious damage. This is something no one likes to deal with, especially not during the holidays. These recommendations, from Hart Insurance Agency serving Federal Way, WA, will help you avoid major problems from winter weather.

#1 Make Sure That You Have an Emergency Kit

This is perhaps one of the most important things that you can do to prepare for winter storms. An emergency kit ensures that you have the essential supplies in case a winter storm prevents you from leaving your house. In the middle of a winter storm, power and other utilities sometimes go out for days. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, recommends identifying things that you would need during a storm adding them to your emergency kit before disaster strikes. Here are some items to include in your emergency kit:

Enough water and non-perishable food for three days for each member of your family
Rock salt to help melt ice on driveways
Warm clothing and blankets
Flashlights
Battery powered smoke and carbon monoxide detector

#2 Prevent Ice Dams

An ice dam is an accumulation of ice that forms along the edges of your roof. When the snow melts, water runs down your roof and will refreeze at the edge. This build-up of ice keeps water from draining off of your roof. The water is forced under your roof and runs down into your attic or the inside of your walls. Once this happens, the damage can be quite serious. To prevent ice dams, keep drainage spouts and gutters clean. Carefully remove any snow accumulation with a roof rake before it has a chance to melt. If you suspect that you have damage from an ice dam, call in a professional.

#3 Make Sure That You Have the Right Insurance Coverage

Now is the time to check with your homeowner’s insurance agency to make sure that you will be adequately covered in the event of damage from a winter storm. Do not wait until after a catastrophe strikes to check your coverage. If you are in the Federal Way, WA area and would like to learn more about homeowner’s insurance coverage, speak with an agent from Hart Insurance Agency today.

Policyholders’ Tips: Preparing Your Home for Fall

Posted on September 15, 2016October 25, 2016 by AgentInsure

Fall is now upon us, and there are different precautions that should be taken care of for your home this fall. There are also crucial things to be aware of this season to prevent possible great losses. Having said that, the following includes different preparation measures that should be taken for your home this fall:

Have a qualified technician to inspect and clean the furnace annually.
Keep flammables away from wiring and water heaters in the basement.
Turn the thermostat up during really cold temperatures, and get water pipes that are exposed in cold temperatures insulated.
Make sure the chimney is annually maintained and cleaned professionally.
Check the caulking around the toilet bases, sinks, bathtubs, and showers and make needed repairs.
Check the caulking around the windows and doors that are deteriorated.
Check, clean, and repair accordingly the gutters, roof, and downspouts to keep down debris. This will prevent the extra building of leaves in the gutters.
Remove and clean out the clothes dryer exhaust duct, space underneath the dryer, pieces of material, dust, and lint.
Check electrical outlets for possible fire hazards, and make sure there’s no overloading of extension cords, fuse boxes, electrical outlets, and all power services.
Make sure to have a filled and readily operable multi-purpose fire extinguisher.
Have a smoke detector on each floor of your home, inspect them, have monthly testings, and change the battery as needed.

Taking these steps will get you on your way for safety, to prevent dreadful losses, and to ensure your home insurance rates won’t raise. Most homeowner insurance policies cover damages associated with falling trees, wind, wind driven rain, and collapse caused by snow or ice. There are, however, some damages that homeowners’ policies won’t cover, such as landslides, floods, busted pipes due to negligence from the homeowner, etc. Be sure to contact Hart Insurance for more details.

How To Find RV Insurance

Posted on August 18, 2016October 25, 2016 by AgentInsure

Finding insurance for your RV in Federal Way, WA doesn’t have to be a chore. You don’t have to spend hours in front of the computer or on the phone with different insurance agents. Knowing how to find insurance as well as the right policy for you can be done quickly.

Know Coverage Options

There is a minimum level of insurance that you need in Washington when you have an RV. In addition to the minimum level, you can also choose to have additional coverage. This will provide you with protection when you are out on the road, parked in an RV Park, as well as in various other scenarios.

Knowing more about the coverage options will make it easier for you to find RV insurance that works for you and your needs. Those who travel more may choose to have more coverage simply because there will be more scenarios.

Talk with an Agent

You never have to be left to your own devices in order to find RV insurance. You have the ability to talk with an independent insurance agent in order to learn about coverage, ask questions, and get help with quotes. Someone who is experienced in this type of insurance can make it easy for you to get a great policy that works within your budget.

Compare Rates

Once you have spoken with an agent, you can find out about the rates that are out there. They will get quotes for you from the different insurance companies that will write policies in Washington. From there, you can make comparisons and see who has the best rates for the coverage that you desire.

Learn more by contacting us at Hart Insurance today. We look forward to helping you find the right policy for your RV.

Types Of Commercial Insurance For Business Owners

Posted on July 15, 2016October 25, 2016 by AgentInsure

No matter the type or size of your business, commercial insurance coverage is a must. Commercial insurance is different than individual, personal insurance. While your individual insurance may protect you, it does not protect your business, your employees or your business property.

Even if your business is home-based, it’s still a good idea to have insurance. You’ll choose your type of commercial insurance based on the size of your business, whether you have employees and other factors. There are several different kinds, and the best way to determine which ones are right for you is to talk to your Federal Way, WA. insurance agent.

Commercial Insurance Policies

Commercial Property

Commercial Property Insurance helps protect your place of business from theft and damage. If you have a home-based business, your homeowner’s insurance may cover this, but you should make sure. This policy may cover damage done to the building itself, as well as damage or theft of the property inside. Depending on how comprehensive your policy is you may also have business interruption coverage. This means that the costs of having to stop doing business due to the damage or incident may be covered, such as expenses, salaries, etc.

General Liability

General liability insurance is an absolute must. It covers people who come to your business. If someone gets hurt at your place of business, you are liable. This type of policy can cover bodily injury, or damage to property. Policies can also extend to your products or services. For example, if you are a home service business, and you go to residences to make repairs, you’ll need coverage that extends to places other than your place of business. If a product you manufacture somehow does damage or causes injury, you can purchase liability insurance that covers you. Again, it’s important that you talk to your insurance agent to better understand your needs.

Worker’s Compensation

If you have employees, you must have some kind of workers compensation insurance.

Any business needs to have some kind of insurance. The experienced agents at Hart Insurance can help you learn more and get the coverage that you need to protect yourself, your property and your employees.

Tips to Prepare You for Summer Boating Season

Posted on June 30, 2016October 25, 2016 by AgentInsure

With summer right around the corner, you might be tempted to pull your boat, kayak, canoe, or other watercraft out of storage and head to the lake. But before you hitch up and head out, remember that boating has its own share of dangers. Whether it’s rough weather, other passengers in the craft, or other issues, boating accidents send thousands to the hospital every year and cause dozens of fatalities. To keep yourself and your passengers safe this summer, check out these tips before you put your boat out on the lake.

Inspect your watercraft

As the weather gets warmer, you’ll want to look over your watercraft for any signs of leaks, rust, mold, rot, or other damage. Get repairs done as soon as possible, and make sure the watercraft is safe before taking it out for recreational usage.

Check the weather

Before you head out, listen to the weather forecast. Make sure you are aware of the weather and change your plans if a storm is in the forecast. Also, be sure to exit the water as soon as you can if you see dark clouds or a storm on the horizon.

Do not overload your boat

Overloading a boat with passengers will make it more likely to capsize or sink. Make sure you know the maximum number of passengers and weight your boat can hold.

Keep safety equipment on hand

Always have life jackets, life preservers, a first aid kit, and other safety equipment on hand. It’s better to have it around and never use it than to need it and not have it.

Do not drink and boat

Operating a boat while drunk is not only dangerous but also illegal. Make sure you operate your boat while sober, both for your safety and for the safety of passengers and swimmers.

At Hart Insurance, we know how much fun boating season is every year. That’s why our independent agents can help you choose an insurance policy that will best cover your boat and other personal watercraft. Call us today for more information about our boat insurance policies.

Anger Management

Posted on May 2, 2016May 1, 2016 by AgentInsure

Find yourself frequently overwhelmed with the urge to run other drivers off the road? You’re not alone, and these tips for diffusing the rage may save your life.

Yell into the abyss

One of the most natural, mild stages of road rage is screaming out your frustrations. While potentially off-putting for your passengers, it’s still a better option to let off steam than channeling the anger into your vehicle. If you’re the sort who gestures with their arms while talking, this method may not be for you.

Make a pit stop

If you have the time to spare, consider pulling off of the road and getting away from the driver’s seat. Have a drink, eat a meal, or call up your family on the cell phone. Do anything but think about the road, and wait for your rage to dissipate.

Think about the cost of losing control

"Road rage" as a term tends to conjure up images of shouting drivers hurling insults at stop lights or riding too close to someone’s bumper, both aggravating but not inherently costly behaviors. Rage doesn’t stop there, though. If it takes over, drivers may find themselves deliberately causing accidents that threaten the lives of themselves of those around them. Even the seemingly innocuous tailgating can dramatically increase the risk of accidents occurring.

When you feel the urge to take an action based on anger while driving, it is essential to think ahead. The person who cut you off and made you slam on the brakes is certainly infuriating, but driving recklessly because of it could turn what was an insignificantly minor increase in used gas into the cost of repairs, rising insurance premiums, and even time in jail.

If you would like to know more about how road rage incidents can impact everything from your right to drive to the cost of your insurance premiums, contact the automotive insurance specialists at Hart Insurance.

Federal Way, WA Packing Tips

Posted on April 28, 2016May 1, 2016 by AgentInsure

So it’s time to move from one place to another and you are dreading packing. This is a common concern. But if you follow a few helpful tips about how to pack more efficiently, the process won’t be so bad. Below are some packing tips to make your move a lot easier and keep your stress levels down.

DON’T PAY FOR BOXES

You are already spending enough on your move most likely. Save money on not buying boxes. You can get free boxes from friends, from various stores like liquor stores or from your work’s mailroom, if you have access to such a place. Also, if you can use them, don’t hesitate to put items into trash bags as you are simply transporting them from one place to another and these bags are durable enough for this purpose and perfect for a one time use.

INSURE YOUR MOVE

Make sure you have insurance during your move so you can protect yourself from having to pay for any lost or stolen items during this period of transition. Call a local insurance provider like Hart Insurance, who serves the greater Federal Way, Washington area to set up home or renters insurance so you can concentrate on packing and moving and not worry about losing items or having them stolen from you.

LABEL YOUR BOXES

By simply labeling what is in your boxes and what rooms the boxes belong in when you get to your new place, it will save you a tremendous amount of time packing and unpacking your belongings, especially the unpacking part. This can also be done by color coding boxes if you don’t want people carrying them to know exactly what is in them, with a key you only have access to.

Tips for Buying ATV’s for First Timers

Posted on March 4, 2016March 4, 2016 by AgentInsure

Buying your first ATV is a great experience, but there are some tips that may make the experience more enjoyable.

Consider the driver. It is important to know the age and experience level of the rider in order to find the right vehicle for him or her. If this is for a child or teen, you will need an ATV that matches that age range. There are different power settings for adult vehicles than there are for youth models. The experience of the driver will make a difference in the types of controls you may want. More experienced riders may like hand control better than foot controls.
How will the vehicle be used. Recreational sports ATV’s are durable models that can handle high performance activities for heavy off-road fun. Utility ATV’s are 4-wheeled quads that are more suitable for hauling heavy loads for towing or plowing. There are some models that are a combination of both sport and utility.
Where will the ATV be used? A 4-wheel drive ATV would be great for uphill, mud, and sand riding. Two-wheel drive vehicles are useful if you are travelling on steadier surfaces. An ATV that has electronic power steering will be needed if you are driving on terrain that is tough or rocky.
Think about getting your ATV insured. An ATV is a vehicle and it can be in an accident or stolen. Try to prevent an accident by being safe. Wear your safety gear and watch for other riders. Some things you can do to prevent your vehicle from being stolen is to keep it hidden in a garage or lock it with a heavy-chains outdoors.

Talking with an independent insurance agent will help you understand your insurance options. Federal Way, WA agents at Hart Insurance can answer any questions you have about your recreational vehicle.

Giving Back to Your Community

Posted on February 12, 2016February 12, 2016 by AgentInsure

When it comes to insurance companies there are many that take and never really give back. For the average person it is easier than you might think to give back to the community that you live in. Something as simple as volunteering at a local shelter, helping out with a food drive, working at a soup kitchen, and more can all help make your community a better place.

When it comes to insurance companies and other public companies, giving back can be as simple as providing the best care and service to our customers as we possibly can. Hart Insurance works to provide the best care and the best service to customers so that we can provide the community with the help that they need.

Taking the time to really consider what it is that you can do as an individual is just one way that you can insure you are going to have a successful community that is not only loved by residents but also taken care of by residents. Volunteering and working to give back to your community can make you feel wonderful and it can help improve the community in which we all live. Giving back is one of the easiest and most fulfilling ways to make your community a better place and to truly make a difference.

Giving back does not have to be pricey and it does not have to take up all your time. In a few short hours over the span of a week or two you can make a huge impact on both the community and the lives of individuals that live there making your home a better place for yourself and for those that also live there. Take the time to see what you can do to make your world a better place.

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