10 Simple Steps to Happy Thanksgiving
CHICAGO – During the Thanksgiving holiday millions of Americans will be hitting the road to spend time with friends and family or prepping for an exquisite meal and it’s easy to get distracted or skip good safety practices, which is why the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) urges you to take your time and avoid insurance claims by following a few easy tips.
“Thanksgiving is the start of the busy holiday season and with an expected increase in motorists on the roads again this year it’s important to be prepared and keep your guard up,” said Chris Hackett, PCI’s director of personal lines policy. “More traffic can result in more traffic accidents and if you don’t have the right amount of insurance coverage you could be shelling out thousands of dollars in damages. This is why before you head out this Thanksgiving, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance company or agent and make sure adequately covered.”
Individuals planning to spend time in the kitchen cooking and entertaining also cannot afford to minimize safe practices over the holidays. Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires. “There are a million things that could divert your attention, if only for a moment, which is why it’s important to take your time and avoid any mishaps or accidents,” said Hackett.
Even when you’re not home the unthinkable can happen, which is why you need to make sure not only your auto insurance policy is up to date, but also your homeowners policy. These actions can protect your auto in the event of an accident or your home if it is destroyed in a fire or burglarized.
“To help reduce the chance you may have to file an insurance claim this holiday, don’t announce your trip on social media. A post to Twitter or Facebook could read as an invitation to a thief or a burglar,” said Hackett,
Simple Cooking & Traveling Safety Tips
Stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on anything cooking on the stovetop or in the oven.
Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the stove and away from the counter.
Ensure electric cords are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of child.
Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it in case of an emergency.
Make sure your smoke alarm is working and push the test button to be sure it operates.
Buckle up, drive safely and allow plenty of extra travel time to arrive at your destination.
Avoid distracted driving. Remember to put the phone down, and never text while driving.
Beware of crash taxes. Many cities, counties and fire districts will charge the at-fault driver for emergency response costs in an auto accident.
Have a plan for roadside assistance. If an accident occurs, be wary of unscrupulous towing companies.
Keep your proof of auto insurance handy and up to date. In several states you can simply use your smartphone to show proof of insurance.
Follow PCI on twitter @PCIAA use #safetytips #Thanksgiving for important tips over the holiday weekend.
Tags:
