We all know to dress warmly before venturing out on a winter day and to keep windows and doors closed to be sure it's warm inside; but one topic worthy of a reminder because it is not often top of mind as we go through each day is the care our pets need.  Our pets depend on us to keep them safe in the cold weather. 

Bring your pets in from the cold

• Some pets are more tolerant of extremely cold temperatures than others, but that does not mean that they are not just as vulnerable to the harmful effects.  It’s up to you as the pet owner to protect them.  Many pets — especially dogs — aren’t aware of just how cold the weather can be. You’ll have to be sensitive to their limits, and you may have to wrap your pet in a coat or boots to go outside. The ASPCA offers the following advice to help keep your pets safe as temperatures plummet.
• Just as leaving your pet in your car when it’s hot can be deadly, so can leaving them in your car when it’s cold.  The car traps the cold air and acts like a refrigerator, causing the animal to freeze.
• Keep your pets safely indoors during extremely cold weather that can cause them to be disoriented or actually freeze.  How to know when it’s too cold for your pet to be outside:  If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet.
• Protect your pet from drafts and give them a warm place to sleep that is off the floor such as a dog or cat bed.  Adding a warm blanket or pillow will help as well. 
• Because your pets burn extra energy to stay warm when it’s cold, they’ll require extra food for the calories they’ll need. Likewise, extra water for extra hydration will help prevent dry skin.

Homeowners Insurance Tip

If your pet will be left inside your home alone when it's too cold to be outside, then be sure to "pet-proof" your home ahead of time.  In particular, be sure that your pet will not be able to turn on the tap in the sink which can lead to flooding or damage an electrical cord which might put your home at risk for fire while you're away.  You’ll want to be sure that your homeowners insurance policy offers you the best coverage for your circumstances.  Spend some time inspecting your home to be sure that it is pet ready, well before you have the need to ever file a homeowners insurance claim.  Speak with your insurance agent for advice and to discuss your coverage options.

Feel free to contact any of our very capable and experienced agents at Ewing, Hines & Associates in Kensington, MD to discuss any  home insurance-related questions.  We can help you review your current insurance policy and explore your options to be sure you have the best coverage and protection according to meet your own needs.

We have certainly had our share of rain-soaked days in the mid-Atlantic region lately, and flooded waterways, roads and homes are the result.  Local flooding happens when rainwater accumulates faster than it can either be carried away or absorbed by the soil.   Once the ground becomes saturated, then prolonged rain falling over several consecutive days or intense rain falling over even a short period of time, will typically overflow rivers and streams onto the surrounding area. 

Flash Flood Driving Risk

When a very large amount of rainfall occurs quickly as in a downpour or a string of thunderstorms brings repeated heavy rainfall to an area, flash flooding can occur with rapid overflow making roads impassable and dangerous.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn us to “Turn Around – Don’t Drown” since over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water.

Driver Safety Tips If Flooding Occurs

• If you find your vehicle suddenly surrounded by rushing water, exit immediately, being careful where you step as you head for higher ground. 
• Never drive over downed power lines or drive through puddles that are in contact with such a line. Electrical current could be transmitted through the water and be potentially fatal even if you don’t touch the line itself.
• Always obey barricades and signs that warn of road flooding. Even if the water looks shallow enough to cross, don't attempt it. Even a puddle that appears only a couple inches deep can be much deeper and can hide major road hazards like washed-out sections and holes in the road.
• If you see flooding on the road ahead, don’t proceed. Turn around immediately and take a different road to reach your destination. Rushing water could cause your vehicle to float and perhaps even be carried away. As little as just 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most cars.
• If you cannot avoid driving through deep puddles, then be sure to test your brake function immediately afterwards to be sure that you can stop your vehicle.

 Flood Waters Will Damage Your Car

So it stands to reason that one significant threat resulting from flooding is damage to your vehicle – whether from driving through high water or parked in standing water.

Depending on the circumstances and amount of exposure to the flood waters, your vehicle could incur even major damage such as failure of the electronics and computer system, drive train, transmission, brakes and even the air bags.  If you escape major damage, exposure to this type of water will likely lead to rusting, corrosion, mold or complete loss of part of your car’s interior.  One other concern, of course, is the car’s overall condition which could affect ongoing performance and even resale value.   

Auto Insurance Tip

Long before you find yourself in a potential flooding situation with your vehicle, you will want to know that you have insurance to cover the damages.  Ask your insurance agent about comprehensive coverage and what options you might have to protect yourself well in advance.  You don’t want to be worrying about these things when the water starts to rise.

Here at Ewing, Hines & Associates in Kensington MD, our very knowledgeable agents have the experience to assist you with any insurance needs. Before you find yourself driving in high water, be sure to contact us to check on your auto insurance coverage. We can answer your questions, refer you to other resources, offer a no-obligation policy review and discuss your options.

Do you know how your auto insurance premium is determined? 

Of course, type of coverage and amount of coverage make a big difference in the amount you pay; but you might not be aware of the many other elements that insurers must consider in order to arrive at your premium.  The relative importance and weight of these elements will vary from insurer to insurer. Some but not all of the information factored in will be out of your control.  

You can probably see the need to consult with a trusted insurance agent before purchasing your Auto Insurance.  Ideally, this will be an agent who knows you and your circumstances.  This will give you the chance to ask questions and fully understand the process involved in determining how much you pay for car insurance.

But first, take a look at this infographic from the Insurance Information Institute to see the WHAT and WHY of factors that impact your auto insurance premium. 

If you already have Auto Insurance coverage, think about sitting down with your agent to review your coverage and determine whether you have the best policy for your needs at the best price available. 

The scope of your insurance coverage and options depend entirely upon the policy and the insurance company providing it.  This website is not intended to advise, offer or bind coverage.  You should always discuss your insurance issues with professionals such as a licensed and qualified insurance agent before making any decisions or choosing a course of action.  Ewing Hines & Associates is a full-service insurance agency offering auto insurance for your vehicle, home insurance for homeowners, renters and condo dwellers, business/commercial insurance and life insurance to all of Maryland (MD), Virginia (VA), Washington DC since 1960. Our experienced insurance agents at our office in Kensington, MD welcome your inquiries and are glad to discuss your coverage needs at any time.

Are you one of the many who makes New Year’s resolutions each year? 

If you’re like most people, you usually resolve to enhance your health or your appearance, and those are admirable goals.

But if you’re ready for something fresh – something that will polish your skills and keep you safe at the same time, then consider gearing this year’s resolutions around becoming a better driver.

To make it a little easier for you, click on READ MORE below for some suggested resolutions to keep you safe on the road...

Although you might already have many of the following habits of safe driving, perhaps there are a few that you can commit to this year.

Observe the speed limit – Statistics show that about a third of fatal auto accidents show speeding as a cause. So allow enough time for your trip, and remember that these limits are based on what traffic will bear in a given area of the road – not to inconvenience you.

Avoid tailgating – Allow your speed to determine your following distance -- the higher your speed, the more room you’ll need to stop behind the car just ahead.  Beware if you’re following a slow driver since they might be distracted and could make an unexpected move.

Signal before making a turn – Your car’s turn signals are the only way to communicate with others sharing the road with you. Make it a habit to use your blinkers even if no other cars are around. That way, you’ll remember to do it when it really counts.

Don’t run the red light – Even if you are alone at the intersection, come to a complete stop and wait for the green light. Even then, before proceeding, check the cross traffic to be sure they are stopped.  How many times have you heard someone say, “I didn’t see them coming?”

Never Drive impaired – If you’ve been drinking alcohol or you are tired, drowsy or ill, don’t get behind the wheel and put yourself and others on the road at risk.

Avoid all distractions – Studies have shown that, when distracted, you are as much at risk as a drunk driver, and that applies to all types of distraction -- whether it’s adjusting the radio or GPS, talking to passengers, or most especially texting or using your cell phone.

Never fail to buckle up – It only takes a second, but it’s potentially life-saving for you and your passengers. And in most states it’s the law.

Secure your passengers – Before starting the car, be sure that all passengers are buckled up. Properly secure young children (under age 8) in the appropriate car seat for their size and age. Seat all children under age 12 in the back seat.

Take care of your vehicle - If your car is not in good condition, you can’t rely on it to perform as expected. Routine and regular maintenance such as regular tune-ups and tire checks will keep your car running well.

Be a defensive driver – Pay attention to what other vehicles around you are doing at all times and drive accordingly. Anticipating what the other drivers are going to do will let you adjust if a car makes an unexpected  move.

Auto Insurance Tip

Will you be carpooling in the new year?  Whether you'll be driving the neighborhood kids to or from school, sharing the drive to work with coworkers or something else, your auto liability insurance should reflect the increased risk of additional passengers in the automobile. And if you'll be compensated for your driving, there are extra coverage issued to sort out.  Check with your insurance agent to be sure your insurance coverage is adequate well in advance the need to file a claim.  

The scope of your insurance coverage and options depend entirely upon the policy and the insurance company providing it.  This website is not intended to advise, offer or bind coverage.  You should always discuss your insurance issues with professionals such as a licensed and qualified insurance agent before making any decisions or choosing a course of action.  Ewing Hines & Associates is a full-service insurance agency offering auto insurance for your vehicle, home insurance for homeowners, renters and condo dwellers, business/commercial insurance and life insurance to all of Maryland (MD), Virginia (VA), Washington DC since 1960. Our experienced insurance agents at our office in Kensington, MD welcome your inquiries and are glad to discuss your coverage needs at any time.

With the holidays fast approaching, you might be thinking about raising money so that you can afford to purchase gifts for friends and family. One way to raise the funds is by taking a second job often known as "Moonlighting"..

Just what are the benefits to having a side job? Who is likely to have one? What are the most popular side jobs?

According to a recent article from Erie Insurance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that nearly 6.8 million Americans work more than one job. That equates to 4.6 percent of all employed people.

Read the entire article…> to learn the who, what, and why of side jobs as well as some practical concerns if you are seeking such a job.