Did you experience damage from high winds? Producer Ben Galbreath takes a look at common occurrences in Springfield, Ohio.
Contact us at 937-324-8492 to discuss coverage for wind damage.
Getting Festive at the Office
Cooper telling Santa he’s been a good boy and deserves toys and treats for Christmas 🎅
Partner Patrick Field and A Christmas Story lamp ⛄️
Celebrating Christmas with On-The-Rise
Wallace & Turner joined On-The-Rise for their annual Christmas party on December 19, 2019. We thank the local Aldi for supplying gifts and being an ongoing support of the organization.
Since 2002, On-The-Rise has served at risk youth throughout Clark County, who have displayed deficiencies in life and social skills, have had academic difficulties, and have displayed behavioral issues. The multi-sensory programs offered at On-The-Rise facilitate extended learning opportunities allowing youth to gain life skills, social skills, and employment skills with the collaboration of many of Springfield’s resources. These programs promote responsibility, compassion, work ethic, and positive self image; but most of all, they give students a chance to succeed.
Wallace & Turner Delivers Gifts to Rocking Horse Community Center
Santa Zach (also known as our Commercial Lines Analyst) heads out to deliver gifts to Rocking Horse Community Health Center. Rocking Horse provides complete health and wellness services to community members. They offer medical, dental, behavioral health, patient advocacy and material assistance to improve the physical, emotional and behavioral well-being of each and every patient.
Wallace & Turner Recognized as a Top Dayton Area Property & Casualty Insurance Agency
Wallace & Turner was again recognized on Dayton Business Journal’s list of top Dayton area property and casualty insurance agencies for 2019.
Click here to view the full list (subscription required).
Don’t Be a Turkey This Thanksgiving: Insurance Tips for a Safe Holiday
Did I put too much salt in the gravy? Will grandma ask me why I’m still not married? Will the Giants beat the Cowboys? These are valid Thanksgiving Day concerns and hopefully the biggest worries you’ll have this coming Thursday. Unfortunately, the holiday can bring up a cornucopia of other troubles, from cooking accidents and injuries, to home and driving safety issues. Below, we’ve outlined a handful of steps you can take to make sure this is one of your most memorable Thanksgivings – for all of the right reasons.
PREVENTING A FIRE
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. Moreover, cooking is the leading cause of reported home fires year-round, accounting for nearly half of all US home fires (48 percent) and reported home fire injuries (45 percent), as well as one-fifth (21 percent) of home fire deaths. These stats are a good reminder to use caution when preparing your Thanksgiving Day feast.
Deep Frying a Turkey
You’re probably not alone if your top question now is, “Can I still prepare that tasty deep-fried turkey?” While it’s not an absolute “no,” you should be aware that turkey fryers can lead to severe burns or other injuries, and even property damage, even if you’re extremely careful. Deep-frying a turkey requires a substantial amount of hot oil which can splash, spill or combust.
Butterball offers helpful cooking and safety tips whether you’re frying indoors or outdoors. As with any cooking, don’t leave your deep fryer unattended and keep children away from the frying area. Alternatively, NFPA suggests contacting your local grocery store, a specialty food retailer or restaurants that sell deep-fried turkeys so you don’t have to encounter any risk.
Kitchen Safety
With family and friends going in and out of the house, TV and music volume, and possibly alcohol, it’s easy to be distracted while you’re cooking. Below are a few quick tips for keeping you and your home safe from accidents.
It’s tempting to try and accomplish other things while food is cooking, especially a turkey that takes hours, but you should check on food frequently and never leave your home while your oven or other cooking appliances are on.
Make sure you have timers set so food doesn’t burn and potentially set off smoke alarms or worse, cause a fire. Keep the timer next to you so you don’t miss it over loud conversations or other noise.
Keep your prep space clean and organized. Oven mitts, paper towels and dish towels, food wrappers and other easily combustible items should be kept at least three feet away from heat and flames.
Don’t wear billowy clothing that could come in contact with heat and flames.
Confirm that smoke alarms have new batteries and are properly working before you being cooking.
Avoid cooking if you’re drinking heavily.
It’s always a good idea to check your homeowners or renters insurance coverage if the worst does happen and you experience a fire or related loss.
AVOIDING CAR ACCIDENTS
Drinking and Driving
This should be a no-brainer but, don’t drink and drive! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drunk driving still causes 28% of all traffic-related deaths in the U.S. If you’re planning on drinking on Thanksgiving (or any day), arrange for a designated driver or call a cab, Uber or another service to get you safely from place to place. Depending on your location, you may be able to call AAA and use their Tipsy Tow service.
Be mindful of who you hand your keys over to as well. Even if you’re watching your alcohol intake, your family member offering to run up to the grocery store for the missing ingredient may not be as sober as you think. Generally speaking, it’s always a good idea to limit loaning out your car. You may be on the hook as the insured if they get in an accident.
Review Your Auto Insurance Policy Before Hitting the Road
It’s widely reported that the week of Thanksgiving is the busiest travel period of the year, with millions of Americans traveling 50+. This means the likelihood of getting in a car crash increases exponentially. While comprehensive car insurance coverage can’t prevent an accident, it can cover costs for vehicle damage and injuries. If you’re renting a car, determine what your policy will cover or not, and consider rental car insurance if necessary.
While you can’t predict other drivers’ behavior, you can take a few steps to safeguard yourself.
Give yourself extra time. Weather is often bad this time of year and with additional cars on the road, this is a Thanksgiving recipe for disaster if you’re rushing or stressed to make up for time in snow, rain and ice.
Secure food and other items. The last thing you want is additional hazards distracting you while driving. Prevent food from sliding around and ensure everything has tight lids.
Protect your pets. If your furry friends will be traveling with you, use a strapped in harness or other safety belt to keep them in one place. If you have to brake suddenly, this can avoid possible injuries.
Pack a roadside emergency kit. This is a good idea year-round, but especially in inclement weather and times when AAA or other roadside services may take longer to get to you.
PROTECTING YOUR HOME WHILE YOU’RE AWAY
Unfortunately, the holiday season can see an uptick in home robberies. Thieves know homes are often empty for days at a time and take advantage of this. Here are a few measures to take to keep your home safe while you’re away:
Keep your travel plans off social media. This can be a tough one since you want to share photos and good times with friends and family, but consider waiting until you’re back in town so the wrong person doesn’t become aware of your absence.
Put your lights on a timer and use motion detectors for outdoor lights.
Get a safe for small valuables such as jewelry and family heirlooms.
Ask a neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home and pick up any mail so it doesn’t pile up and tip off burglars.
Arrange for yard service to clear away snow and ice while you’re away so it appears someone is home.
As an added precaution, invest in an outdoor security camera that you can monitor from anywhere.
Homeowners insurance such as dwelling coverage and personal property coverage may help recover costs in the instance of a break-in. Hopefully, you’ll never be the victim of a home burglary, but you should be aware of what your homeowners policy covers and be sure to document your home inventory in advance to expedite the claims process.
Questions about home insurance? Contact Wallace & Turner at (937) 324-8492 or info@wtins.com.
Ben Galbreath Selected to Leadership Clark County's 2019-2020 Academy Class
Ben Galbreath
Producer Ben Galbreath is participating in Leadership Clark County's 2019-2020 Academy Class to learn leadership training in a variety of programs and issues important to the surrounding community, including nonprofit & board governance, crime & rehabilitation, economic vitality and more. Leadership Clark County selects up to 35 participants for the Community Leadership Academy held September through March of each year. A volunteer selection committee bases its decisions upon the criteria of an applicant’s leadership potential, and its desire to assemble a class that reflects the diversity of Clark County. After graduation, participants are expected to actively apply the leadership training in the Clark County area through community service volunteer work or by memberships on Clark County area organization boards and committees.
“Since joining Wallace & Turner, Leadership Clark County was highly recommended, and I joined the 2019-2020 class to broaden my knowledge of our great city of Springfield and nearby communities,” commented Ben. “I have already completed four sessions and even though I grew up in Springfield, I have learned so much more about my hometown. It’s exciting to see firsthand all of the work and progress that has been done to continually improve the area for our residents and visitors.”
Learn more about Leadership Clark County here.
7 Car Hacks to Overcome Winter Weather Conditions
Winter weather is officially here which means colder temperatures and the likelihood for snow, sleet and freezing rain. This time of year, it’s especially important to ensure your vehicle is prepared to get you around safely. Most everyone that has lived in a cold climate is familiar with the usual tips for winterizing your car or truck, from checking wiper blades and using an anti-freezing agent for your windshield to installing winter tires and having a safety kit on hand. But there are a few tricks that you may not be aware of that could prevent headaches or get you out of a jam. Below, we’ve rounded up a few DIY vehicle solutions for overcoming winter weather.
1. Prevent ice build-up with vinegar
Raise your hand if you like scraping your car each morning before work in freezing temperatures. We didn’t think so! Avoid frost and ice from forming by spraying down your windows and windshield with a vinegar-water mixture. Combine three parts vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle and the night before, spray your windows and remove any excess. Vinegar has a lower freezing temperature than water and will help prevent ice. It’s important to note that this is not effective if ice has already formed and probably won’t work as well in extreme conditions, but it’s worth trying and saving yourself a few grueling minutes in the morning.
2. De-ice with pickle juice
In addition to scraping your car, you’ve likely spent a good amount of time de-icing your driveway and sidewalks with salt. Some states, like New Jersey, are experimenting with a salt alternative – pickle brine. Similar to rock salt, brine can melt ice at temperatures as low as -6°F, according to National Geographic. Pickle juice is also a more environmentally friendly way to de-ice and prewetting pavements can prevent snow and ice build-up. Before you throw out your pickle jar, save the brine for the next snowfall.
3. Fog-proof your windshield with shaving cream
Winter temperatures are notorious for creating foggy windshields, but what if you could stop it before it happens? Spray shaving cream on the inside of your windshield and then wipe it off with a towel. Why does this work? Shaving cream has many of the same ingredients found in commercial foggers and creates a protective coating on the glass.
4. Keep headlights clear with car wax
This tip works for any time of year, but especially when you’re trying to keep your headlights clear of snow, slush and road salt. Waxing the lenses will prevent them from fogging up and will repel water. As a bonus, waxing should also restore dull yellowed headlights and protect them from future yellowing.
5. Use hand sanitizer to unfreeze a lock
Can’t get your key in the lock in freezing temperatures? Put some hand sanitizer on the key and lock, insert the key and wiggle around to disperse the gel. Hand sanitizers contain alcohol which makes the ice melt. Be sure yours has at least 60% alcohol for it to work. Rubbing alcohol works well too, but hand sanitizer is certainly more convenient to carry around.
6. Prevent car doors from freezing shut with cooking spray or WD-40
Water can sneak into the rubber lining of your door jams, particularly if they are dirty or cracked. Try spraying WD-40 or cooking spray on the rubber seals and wipe down with a rag. The lubricant prevents water from melting into the rubber due to the oils in each. Keep in mind both should be used only in a pinch. It’s best to use a silicone spray or rubber conditioner that's intended for car parts as WD-40 can cause the seals to harden over time and wear out.
7. Get unstuck with a rubber floor mat
Sand, kitty litter or of course, snow tires, will get you unstuck from snow and ice. But if you don’t have any on hand or haven’t taken the time to install proper tires, your floor mat can be of service, too. Grab one of your mats and put the rubber side under the tire. Once you start your car back up and give it a little gas, you should have the grip you need to get moving.
Questions about auto insurance? Contact Wallace & Turner at (937) 324-8492 or info@wtins.com.
Sources:
https://www.mnn.com/your-home/at-home/stories/hacks-make-winter-easier
https://www.iaofohio.com/7-unusual-tips-to-winterize-your-car-or-truck/
Wallace & Turner Supports Cedarville University Faculty Appreciation Night
Wallace & Turner was proud to support our insured Cedarville University’s Faculty Appreciation Night. We loved seeing them making good use of the t-shirt gun we donated last year!
Historic Downtown Urbana Holiday Open Houses
Urbana office kicked off the holiday season with the Historic Downtown Urbana Holiday Open Houses! 🎄A longtime tradition of the Monument Square District Urbana, the Holiday Open Houses always take place in early November and serves to spark the downtown's seasonal spirit.
Ben Galbreath Elected as Clark‐Shawnee Board of Education Member
Ben Galbreath
On November 5, 2019, Producer Ben Galbreath was elected to serve as a Member of the Board of Education for the Clark‐Shawnee Local School District. His four-year term will commence on January 1, 2020. The Board of Education works to uphold the community's longstanding traditions of academic excellence and fiscal responsibility.
“My children attend Possum Elementary so it’s important to me to be involved in critical decisions affecting their education,” commented Ben. “I am looking forward to serving my community and growing relationships with the teachers, administration and local homeowners.”
The Clark-Shawnee School District is located in Clark County, Ohio, serving the communities of Springfield Township, Bethel Township and the city of Springfield. Approximately 2,300 students learn in the schools each day, attending Shawnee High School (9-12), Shawnee Middle School (7-8), or one of the three (K-6) elementary schools, Rockway, Reid and Possum.
Exclusive Teacher Discount on Auto Insurance
Teachers, did you know you could qualify for exclusive savings on your auto insurance through our partner Ohio Mutual Insurance Group? Contact us at (937) 324-8492 or info@WTins.com to learn more.
Halloween Contest 2019
The winners of Wallace & Turner’s Halloween costume were…Hocus Pocus 1st place. Bubble gum machine 2nd. Business man 3rd.
Wallace & Turner Supports On The Rise Fundraiser "Give a buck to this here cluck!"
On October 25, Wallace & Turner joined On the Rise in support of their "Give a buck to this here cluck!" fundraiser. Unique chicken banks were placed at local businesses to collect monetary donations with proceeds going to On the Rise. The emptied chicken banks were then auctioned off to the highest bidders at the event which included hayrides, a bonfire, pumpkin painting and more.
Urbana Daily Citizen Reports on New Urbana Office
As published in Urbana Daily Citizen: Wallace & Turner Insurance, Springfield, opened a second location at 113 Scioto St. in Urbana this month. The Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting at the site, the former Sowles Hotel. Assisting with the welcome were, from left, Vicki Deere-Bunnell, Kara Stephens, Emily Dinnen, Chris Johnston, Laura Londergan, Stephanie Geis, Judy Kirkpatrick, Monica Gibson, Lisa Webb, Jason Heims, Myles Trempe, Patrick Field, Wallace & Turner partner, P.J. Miller, Wallace & Miller partner, Zach Vaughn, Gail Bennington, Lisa Miller, Marcia Bailey, Gary Weaver, Bill Bean and Greg Knight.
Colleen Corrigan Joins Wallace & Turner as a Life & Health Insurance Agent
Wallace & Turner is pleased to welcome Colleen Corrigan as an Agent in the Life & Health department. Learn more about Colleen below.
Partners for the Parks Fall Fancy - Wallace & Turner Serves as Premiere Sponsor
Wallace & Turner was the Premiere Sponsor for the Partners for the Parks Fall Fancy on October 19, 2019. The Halloween themed party was held at Snyder Park at the Clubhouse and Gardens & Arboretum. 100% of the proceeds will support the National Trail Parks & Recreation District.
Zach Vaughn Competes in Columbus Marathon
Congratulations to Commercial Lines Analyst/Accounting Assistant, Zach Vaughn, on completing the Columbus Marathon at 11:35:44 am with a time of 04:02:42 and 09:16 min/mile avg pace. (UNOFFICIAL). The event was sponsored by Nationwide Children’s.
P.J. Miller Discusses Why Businesses Need Inland Marine Insurance Coverage with FitSmallBusiness
P.J. Miller
Inland marine insurance is a type of business insurance that covers products, equipment, and valuable goods as they are transported over land or stored at an off-site location. Unlike commercial property insurance, inland marine covers property while it is away from your main premises. Inland marine can also cover property owned by others that is in your possession. This may include cargo you are transporting, or others’ property being held on your premises.
There is a greater risk for accidents and theft when things are on trucks or trains, and standard business insurance policies don’t automatically include inland marine coverage. This creates a coverage gap for many small businesses that don’t always keep products or equipment in their main business location.
In the FitSmallBusiness article “Inland Marine Insurance: Cost, Features & Providers,” Partner P.J. Miller discusses common instances in the normal course of business operations in which items are not covered.
“Mailing or shipping through a common carrier (e.g., FedEx, UPS) may or may not be insured through the cargo carrier. If equipment is leased or rented from a supplier, the renter business might need its own coverage on the equipment. If property is damaged while it’s being repaired, whether working on your own property or working on someone else’s property, it’s usually not covered by property or general liability.”
Questions about business insurance? Contact Wallace & Turner at (937) 324-8492 or info@wtins.com.
Urbana Office Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Wallace & Turner celebrated our Urbana office opening on October 11, 2019 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in partnership with the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and Champaign Works. We are thrilled to be part of the community and continue to provide residents with comprehensive, cost-effective insurance coverage, including auto, home, umbrella, business, life & health, and farm and ranch insurance.
Our Urbana office is located at 113 Scioto St. Urbana, Ohio 43078, with Monday-Friday hours from 9 am to 4 pm. Please contact us with any questions or stop by our office.
