Tropical Tidings: Keep Your Florida Home Safe This Holiday Season

Posted on December 9, 2024December 9, 2024 by isomgroup

The holiday season in Florida brings a unique combination of tropical weather, festive gatherings, as well as a handful of challenges to home safety. From fire hazards to unexpected weather, there are steps you can take to make sure your home stays safe and secure while you and your friends and loved ones enjoy the holiday cheer. The following home safety tips can help you safeguard your Florida home during the most wonderful time of the year.

PROTECT AGAINST FIRE RISKS

Holiday decorations bring warmth and joy, but they also introduce potential fire hazards, especially if your home is decked out in string lights, candles, or a tree. Here are some tips to keep the festive glow without increasing the risk of a house fire:

Use LED Lights

LED lights are not only energy-efficient but also stay cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire. If you’re hanging lights inside or outside your home, choose LEDs over traditional incandescent bulbs, which can get very hot.

Avoid Overloading Outlets

It’s tempting to plug multiple lights, devices, or decorations into one outlet, but doing so can overload circuits, especially if you have older wiring. Stick to a single extension cord per outlet, and never daisy-chain cords together. Use power strips with surge protectors as an added precaution.

Candle Alternatives

Real candles may be beautiful, but they’re a leading cause of household fires, especially during the holidays. Battery-operated candles create the same warm ambiance without the risk of an open flame in the home. If you use real candles, keep them on a stable, heat-resistant surface and never leave them unattended.

Christmas Tree Safety

If you have a real tree, remember: Dry pine needles are highly flammable. Keep your tree well-watered, away from heat sources, and unplug the lights when you’re not at home. For an artificial tree, look for fire-resistant materials to add an extra layer of protection for your home.

Weatherproof Your Home for Florida Winters: Mold & Storm Precautions

Florida’s winter weather may not bring freezing temperatures, but there are still challenges for homeowners. Here are some ways to protect your home from mold and storm-related issues during the holiday season.

Control Humidity to Prevent Mold

Florida’s humidity doesn’t take a break just because it’s winter. If your home is closed up for holiday travel or other excursions away from home, moisture can build up inside, creating the perfect environment for mold growth. To remove excess moisture in the home, use a dehumidifier in rooms prone to moisture buildup, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Set your air conditioning system to a slightly higher temperature to keep air moving, even if you’re away.

Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors aren’t just a concern in cold climates; in Florida, they can allow in moisture and warm air, which contribute to mold growth. Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or leaks, and add caulking or weatherstripping if needed. This can also help keep your energy costs down, as it prevents your air conditioning from working overtime.

Storm Preparations

Although Florida’s official hurricane season is over by the beginning of December, out-of-season storms can occasionally impact the state. Make sure your gutters are clear to prevent water buildup, which can lead to leaks or roof damage. Secure any outdoor decorations or holiday lights to avoid damage from high winds, and keep storm shutters or hurricane-proof window covers accessible – just in case. And it’s never too late to create a home inventory of all you own; it can be a lifesaver should you need to file an insurance claim.

Home Security While Away From Home

If you’re planning to travel during the holidays, it’s essential to make sure your home remains secure while you’re away. Unoccupied homes are often seen as easy targets for burglars – but there are some simple home safety tips you can use to deter unwanted visitors.

Smart Home Technology

Many modern security devices let you monitor your home from your smartphone. Consider installing security cameras, doorbell cameras, or smart locks. These systems can give you peace of mind, as you’ll receive real-time alerts if anything unusual occurs.

Lighting Strategies

A dark house can signal to would-be intruders no one is home. Set your indoor and outdoor lights on timers or use smart bulbs you can control remotely. Alternating the lights’ on and off times gives the appearance of someone being home, even if you’re miles away.

Pause Deliveries and Mail

A pile of packages on your doorstep or a full mailbox is a clear sign of an empty home. Place a temporary hold on mail and deliveries, or ask a neighbor to collect them for you. This simple home safety tip keeps your property looking attended and reduces the risk of theft.

Let a Trusted Neighbor Know

If you have a neighbor you trust, let them know you’ll be away. They can keep an eye out for any unusual activity and might even offer to take care of tasks like watering plants or picking up flyers accumulating around your door.

Review Your Home Insurance Needs for the New Year

The end of the year is an ideal time to take a quick look at your insurance coverage and see if any updates are necessary. As you prepare for the holidays, consider whether your current policy still aligns with your needs.

Evaluate Recent Home Improvements

If you’ve made any significant updates to your home – like upgrading your kitchen, or enhancing your security system – these changes may impact your coverage needs. Updating your policy to reflect these improvements ensures you’re fully protected.

Consider Your Deductible

If you struggled with a high deductible this year or found it didn’t match your current financial situation, now may be the time to adjust it. Choose a deductible better aligned with your budget and risk tolerance – because the deductible you choose will affect both your premium and your out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim.

Protect New Valuables

The holiday season often brings new gifts, like electronics, jewelry, or other high-value items. Double-check your policy to make sure these items are covered in case of damage or loss. In some cases, you may want to add a personal property endorsement to increase your coverage limits for specific valuables.

Reassess Weather-Related Coverage

Although hurricane season is over, it’s important to have the right coverage in place before the next season arrives. Confirm with your agent your policy covers wind, rain, and any other perils common to Florida’s tropical climate. You might also consider flood insurance, since this typically requires a separate policy.

Safeguard Against Unexpected Holiday Hazards

The holidays bring plenty of joy, but they can also introduce unusual hazards. Here are a few extra precautions to keep your celebrations this year safe and stress-free.

Watch for Food Safety Issues

If you’re hosting, take precautions to prevent foodborne illness. Cook meats thoroughly, keep perishable foods refrigerated, and ensure any leftovers are properly refrigerated or stored.

Be Cautious with Outdoor Decorations

In addition to securing outdoor decorations against weather, make sure any electrical decorations are rated for outdoor use to avoid short-circuiting or fire risks. Use ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets for any lights or electronics placed outside to prevent electrical shocks.

Declutter High-Traffic Areas

‘Tis the season to entertain! With guests coming and going, you’ll want to declutter any areas of your home needing it. Keep entryways and common spaces clear to prevent tripping hazards. Store items like shoes, bags, and decorations neatly out of the way to create a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone.

Avoid Pet Hazards

Pets are often curious about holiday decorations, plants, and food, but some items can be harmful to them. Poinsettias, for example, are toxic to cats and dogs, while certain decorations like tinsel can pose choking hazards. Keep these out of reach from your furry friends. And you can help prevent dog bites by learning how to spot stress in dogs, aka beloved four-legged family members.

Home Safety Tips to Make the Season Merry and Safe

By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your home safe and secure this holiday season without sacrificing any of the festive cheer. From managing fire risks to securing your property while traveling, these home safety tips help ensure your home is protected.

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and creating memories – don’t let avoidable home hazards get in the way. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday season, knowing your home and loved ones are safe.

To review your homeowner’s insurance policy or make sure your home is protected against the most common hazards in Florida, contact our office or get a quote at: https://www.isominsurancegroup.com/insurance-quotes.html

How to Pick Home Insurance Based On Your Needs

Posted on November 27, 2024November 26, 2024 by admin

The Isom Insurance Group serves Polk County, FL, and beyond and can provide many types of coverage. For example, we can help you narrow your homeowner’s policy and satisfy you. Here’s what you need to do to get the most out of this process with us.

Know What You Need

Talk with us about the cost to fully rebuild your home and other concepts, such as dwelling coverage, inflation, and extended replacement needs. These expenses are essential to consider because the world will change and can significantly impact what your policy covers.

Consider Add-Ons

Extra policy protection may include scheduled personal property protection, sewer and water backup support, equipment breakdown, and home business endorsements. If you fall under any of these headings, consider these, as they provide great value at reasonable rates.

Don’t Forget Disasters

Florida homeowner insurance will protect against some disasters (in a state that experiences many) but not all. For example, floods and earthquakes aren’t covered. Even if we don’t get too many earth-shaking experiences here, floods are far more common due to hurricanes.

Read Policies Very Closely

Sit down and read through your policy to make sure it makes sense. The home insurance declaration page is significant, laying out everything you need to know. Get 3-4 of these from various providers and compare and contrast your options to choose.

We’re Here for You

At The Isom Insurance Group, we can help Polk County, FL, residents understand their homeowner’s policies. We’ll sit down with you, walk through the process, and ensure you know what’s happening. In this way, you’ll get the help you deserve to thrive and minimize potential financial issues if something happens to you.

Safeguarding Your Thanksgiving: Tips for a Safe Holiday

Posted on November 22, 2024November 22, 2024 by isomgroup

Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, share a meal, and give thanks. While the focus is often on the feast, it’s crucial to consider safety to ensure that the holiday remains joyous and accident-free. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind as you prepare for Thanksgiving.

1. Kitchen Safety

Prevent Fires: Keep flammable items like oven mitts, wooden utensils, and curtains away from your stove. Always turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills.
Turkey Fryer Caution: If you’re deep-frying your turkey, do it outside on a flat surface, away from the house. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry to avoid oil splatters and fires.
Avoid Cross Contamination: Use separate cutting boards for raw meats and vegetables. Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw poultry.

2. Home Safety

Smoke Alarms: Check your smoke alarms before you start cooking. Replace batteries if needed, and ensure all alarms are functioning.
Candles: If you use candles, never leave them unattended. Place them where they cannot be knocked over by pets or children.
Clutter-Free Zones: Keep walkways clear to prevent tripping hazards, especially in the kitchen where everyone seems to gather.

3. Food Safety

Proper Cooking: Ensure your turkey reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Use a food thermometer to check.
Cooling Leftovers: Don’t leave food out for more than two hours. Divide leftovers into shallow containers to cool quickly in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Reheat all leftovers to 165°F (74°C) before eating.

4. Health and Hygiene

Hand Washing: Encourage everyone to wash their hands thoroughly before eating or handling food.
Allergy Awareness: If guests have food allergies, communicate with them about meal ingredients or offer alternatives.

5. Insurance Tips

Review Your Coverage: Before the holiday, it might be a good time to review your homeowners or renters insurance. Ensure you’re covered for potential damages or injuries.
Event Liability: If hosting many guests, consider if your liability insurance is adequate in case of accidents.

Thanksgiving should be a time of warmth and celebration, not worry. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your holiday is both enjoyable and secure. Remember, peace of mind is part of the preparation for a perfect Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The Isom Insurance Group!

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Building a Custom Emergency Kit for Your Auto

Posted on October 31, 2024October 28, 2024 by admin

The relentless 2024 hurricane season seems unwilling to give Florida a break. After Helene came Milton, and The Isom Insurance Group wants to address hurricane and overall safety preparation that could help keep Polk County, FL, residents safer. Today, we’ll discuss emergency kits for your automobile.

Custom Emergency Kits

Home emergency kits get all the attention, especially during hurricane season, but your car, truck, minivan, SUV, boat, or RV needs an emergency kit, too. Your kit should address the many natural hazards that threaten the state of Florida, not just hurricanes.

This auto emergency kit includes items the home kit doesn’t, like emergency blankets, flares, bottled water for drinking, and jugs of water for the radiator. As strange as it might sound, carrying a life jacket in a Florida auto emergency kit can save lives because, during hurricane season, the state is prone to flash floods and rising water floods.

Essential Emergency Kit Items for Your Vehicle

Your auto emergency kit needs more items than the one you create at home. When you need your emergency kit on the go, it must provide the necessities for any situation. Let’s consider the essentials that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend:

Three gallons of water per person
Three days of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank NOAA Weather Radio
Sleeping bag or Mylar thermal blanket
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Whistle for signaling for help
Dust mask
Plastic sheeting and duct tape
Personal sanitation items, including moist disinfecting towelettes, garbage bags, and bag ties
Manual can opener
Local maps and a road atlas
Cloth face coverings/safety masks
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Flares
Rope
Fire extinguisher
Waterproof matches
Paper and pencil
Soap or hand sanitizer
Prescription eyeglasses, contacts, and contact lens solution
Cash or traveler’s checks
Prescription medications
Common non-prescription medications, including pain relievers, antacids, anti-diarrhea medication, etc.

If you have or travel with children, include items relevant to their age, such as infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream for babies, and puzzle books, reading books, or portable games for older children. If you travel with your pet in the vehicle, include water and pet food. Make copies of important legal documents, such as your identification, insurance policies, and bank account numbers, and store them in a waterproof container.

Storing Your Auto Emergency Kit for Easy Access

Organize the essential items in airtight clear plastic bags and label the contents. Place all bags into one or two plastic bins with lids or a duffel bag. Store this kit within reach of the driver’s seat without exiting the vehicle. If your car features seats, you can adjust them to fold down from within, and you can store them in the trunk area. In older cars without this feature, store it on the floor of the backseat.

Contact Our Agency Today

Make your automotive emergency kit before Polk County, FL faces its next emergency. Contact The Isom Insurance Group for an auto insurance review. Let us help you customize your insurance policy to cover the perils faced by Floridians. Contact us today.

How An Umbrella Policy Will Benefit You as A Business Owner

Posted on September 30, 2024September 29, 2024 by admin

An umbrella policy can shield your company’s assets and be a valuable part of your insurance plan whether you’re a new or existing business owner. If this sounds like the right type of coverage for you, our agents at The Isom Insurance Group are available to help you navigate updating your commercial insurance plan.

Your business may face legal battles, causing financial uncertainty. For example, you will be responsible for securing the services of an attorney needed to manage legal matters.

If your current commercial insurance policy doesn’t adequately cover your business, an umbrella insurance add-on can fill in the gaps. Umbrella coverage handles costs that exceed what a standard policy pays out.

Having this coverage means not having to divert funds from savings, business accounts, or other assets in stressful times. As a result, you can continue running your business without experiencing financial hardship.

Possible legal situations could include bodily or personal injury, legally essential defenses, or property damage; all of these could require you to cover out-of-pocket costs. Review your current commercial insurance policy – your insurance documents will explicitly state the coverage details.

An umbrella insurance plan will be invaluable if your business involves significant investments in machinery, inventory, and other essentials. Unexpected expenses won’t bog you down in case of legal issues.

Having reviewed the basics of umbrella insurance, contact our agents serving Polk County, FL. They can assist in updating your commercial insurance policy as per your requirements.

Tips for getting your home ready for fall

Posted on August 30, 2024August 29, 2024 by admin

As summer winds down, thoughts turn to cooler weather and preparing your home for those cooler nights. While the fall weather in Florida is not as different as it is in other parts of the country, fall is hurricane weather in the Southeast. At The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL, we ensure that our customers don’t have to worry about the fall, whether their home insurance is up to date or what they need.

Get your heating unit serviced

In Florida, you are likely to have either a split system or a heat pump and AC. In the fall, there may start to be chilly nights when you want to turn the heat on, and you want to make sure that your system is in good condition and working as efficiently as possible.

Make sure your gutters are clear.

The fall can be very rainy, and if your gutters are filled with debris from trees in your yard, the water can back up and damage your eaves and your roof. If you are going to clear them yourself, make sure that someone is with you and spot them if you lose your balance. Even better, hire someone to do it for you.

Make sure your lawn furniture is secure.

Because fall is hurricane season, it is wise to ensure that your lawn furniture is secured or easy to carry indoors. If you are going to be away at any time, take everything in from the yard, including ornaments, portable plants, and furniture, and put them in the garage for safekeeping.

Call our office at The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL. We will ensure that you have the home insurance you need for your particular home.

Things you should always have in your glove box

Posted on July 31, 2024July 31, 2024 by admin

Essential Items for Your Vehicle’s Glove Box in Polk County, FL

Your vehicle’s glove box is the ideal place to keep all of your car-related necessities. At The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL, we are an independent insurance agency prioritizing our customers over insurance carriers. Let’s explore some things you should always have in your glove box.

Your Insurance Card

Upon purchasing auto insurance, the insurance company will mail or email you a copy of your insurance card and policy. Make sure you print it out and place it directly into your glove box. If you are ever pulled over, you’ll need to show proof of insurance.

Your Vehicle Registration

Vehicle registration is mandatory before they can be driven on the road. Once registered, make it a point to store a copy in your glove box, preferably with your insurance card. Consider having a folder for them to keep them neat and easy to find.

Owner’s Manual

The owner’s manual can be very handy, especially when you can’t find information on your phone. Having it in your glove box can be a lifesaver.

Practical Items

Apart from the essential documents, you might want to stash other practical items such as a highway pass (in Florida, the Sunshine Pass), pad and pen, extra charger, flashlight, glass-breaking tool, seat belt cutter, and a water bottle. These can be helpful in various situations.

Contact The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL to discuss your auto insurance needs with one of our informed agents. Feel free to call us today.

Top Factors to Consider Umbrella Insurance

Posted on June 28, 2024June 25, 2024 by admin

Purchasing umbrella insurance if you’re a Florida resident is a way to maintain your peace of mind, no matter how many properties and assets you own or have invested in. With extra liability coverage that extends well beyond standard insurance policies, you can ensure your investments are protected year-round. If you’re living in or around Polk County, FL, and are interested in an umbrella insurance policy, The Isom Insurance Group can help you once you’re familiar with common factors most likely to encourage investment in umbrella insurance in the Sunshine State.

Top Factors to Consider for Umbrella Insurance

Before selecting an umbrella insurance policy that is right for your property portfolio, it’s important to consider which motivating factors matter to you. While deciding on a policy, keep the following in mind:

Large or High-Value Portfolio: Protecting multiple assets such as properties, vehicles, and even savings accounts or investments can prevent losses during litigation.
Weather and Natural Disasters: Because living in Florida can pose a higher risk than other states, hurricanes, storms, and flooding must be accounted for with extended umbrella insurance policies.
Risky Activities: Most Florida residents spend plenty of time outdoors. However, additional liability insurance can protect your peace of mind if you’ve invested in jet skis, boats, or even swimming pools.

If you’re a commercial or residential real estate investor in Polk County, FL and you’re interested in extending your insurance coverage, finding the right umbrella insurance policy is key. Working with The Isom Insurance Group, protect your investments and assets beyond standard insurance policies in Florida. To learn more about umbrella insurance policies that may be right for you in Polk County, FL, contact The Isom Insurance Group for your quote and consultation today.

Weird Things Covered by Home Insurance

Posted on May 31, 2024June 7, 2024 by admin

You probably know that your home insurance policy covers your home’s structure and contents. However, there are things you may not realize are covered. We offer homeowner’s insurance at The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL.

Identity Theft

Identity theft is a common threat these days, with 9% of adults experiencing identity theft in 2021. If you are a victim of identity theft, your homeowner’s insurance may cover the costs, including legal expenses and any transactions you weren’t responsible for.

Falling Objects

A meteor falling out of the sky is probably low on your list of worries. However, your homeowner’s policy will cover damage caused by falling objects. This includes meteors, airplanes, and satellite debris.

Living Expenses

If you can’t stay in your home, you have two problems: repair or replacement of your home and having a place to live in the meantime. The costs of these can quickly add up.

If your home is temporarily unlivable or destroyed, your homeowner’s policy will cover your living expenses until you can move back in. This includes rent or hotel fees, food, and transportation costs.

Spoiled Food

You probably don’t think much about the cost of the food in your fridge. However, this can be an unexpected expense if your food spoils due to a power outage. If your food spoils due to a covered event like a power outage, your homeowner’s policy will cover the costs of restocking your fridge.

Burglary

If you have a burglary, your homeowner’s policy will cover any stolen items and any damage that occurred. It also covers changing your door locks.

Homeowner’s Insurance with The Isom Insurance Group

If you need homeowner’s insurance in Polk County, FL, contact The Isom Insurance Group. Our friendly agents are here to discuss your needs and help you select the best policy for your situation.

Are Broken Windows Covered By Car Insurance from The Isom Insurance Group

Posted on April 26, 2024April 17, 2024 by admin

Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway, grooving to your favorite tune, when abruptly – a rogue projectile wants to get acquainted with your car’s windshield. Suddenly, a shattered window takes your sunny day for an unruly spin. The inconvenience gives way to anxiety as you contemplate whether your insurance will cover it. At the Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL, we can assist you in navigating through your auto insurance policies.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Broken Windows?

Good news awaits if you’re insured under comprehensive coverage from The Isom Insurance Group. This coverage typically encapsulates non-collision damage to windows, such as vandalism, theft, and even natural disasters. Nonetheless, basic liability or collision-based insurance may leave you vulnerable when it comes to window damage coverage.

Not every chip or crack mandates a wholesale window replacement. Often, minor damage can be repaired, not replaced. Moreover, swift repairs under comprehensive plans can prevent seemingly insignificant damage from growing into a more significant, expensive issue. To effectively manage window damage, it is paramount to grasp the complexities of your policy with The Isom Insurance Group. Our adept agents dissect the policies with you to ensure that you comprehend your coverage and its applicability to broken windows.

Reach Out to The Isom Insurance Group for Auto Insurance in Polk County, FL

At the Isom Insurance Group, we empathize with the vexation caused by a broken car window. Fortunately, we offer extensive insurance coverage to secure against unexpected incidents like these. Get in touch with our office today and speak to one of our agents for more information about auto coverage and protection for broken windows.

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