No Cost Home Safety Improvements

It should be no surprise to anyone that our demographic here in Florida is predominately seniors. There are many ways to improve our home safety expecially as we age.

* Open blinds and curtains and raise shades during daylight hours
  to increase natural light inside the home.
* Place exposed electrical, telephone and computer cords along a
  wall where people won't trip over them.
* Remove all cords from under furniture or carpeting to lessen the
  risk of fire.
* Remove clutter from stairways and passageways to help prevent
  trips and falls.
* Set the hot-water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce
  energy and prevent scalding.
* Remove all scatter and throw rugs that can cause falls.
* Place the items you frequently use in an easily accessible place.
* Check the carpeting on your stairs to be sure it is firmly
  attached.
* Arrange furniture to allow easy easy passage.
* Create an emergency exit plan in case of a fire.
* Remove debris from outdoor walkways.
* Trim shrubbery to provide a clear view from doors and windows.

Low Cost Home Safety Improvements

* Increase light by using the highest-watt light bulbs or compact-
  fluuorescent bulbs appropriate for your light fixturres or lamps.
* Put nighlights in the bathroom and in hallways leading from the
  bedroom to the bathroom.
* Use a rubber-suction bath mat or antislip floor strips or decals in
  the tub or shower.
* Place self-stick carpet mesh or double-sided carpet tape under
  large area rugs to prevent them from sliding.
* Place or mount an A-B-C rated, all-purpose fire extinquisher in
  an easily asscessible location near the stove and oven so that
  you're prepared for any type of kitchen fire.
* Maintain smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors on all levels of
  the house, especially where the bedrooms are.

Medium Cost Home Safety Improvements

* Install a handrail on both sides of any staircase for stability.
* Place a sturdy bathtub or shower seat for comfort and safety.
* Mount grab bars next to the toilet and bathtub and in the shower
  for help getting up or down.
* Install a security peephole on exterior doors at a height that's
  right for you, so you can identify the person seeking entry.
* Install photosensitive porch or entryway lighting that will come
  on at dusk and turn off at dawn. A light-switch timer can also be
  installed on interior switches for exterior porch or post lights.
* Install outdoor floodlights that switch on by montion sensors
  to light your way and to deter burglars.

Aggressive Driving and Road Rage 

Studies have shown that aggressive driving behaviors are a factor in up to 56% of fatal crashes. Clearly it is important to avoid engaging in aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, quick lane changing and failure to yield as these often lead to responses that can even lead to road rage. Below are a few tips on how to avoid aggressive driving.

Control Your Attitude 
Leave yourself "enough time" rather then making "good
  time."Put yourself in the other driver's shoes.Take a deep breath and remember escalating a situation will only makes things worse.

Don't Offend Other Drivers

  * Avoid cutting drivers off and apologize if you do.
  * Avoid tailgating and honking your horn.
  * Avoid making inappropriate or offensive gestures.

Don't Engage Other Drivers

  * Steer clear of any aggressive drivers.
  * Avoid eye contact with agressive drivers.
  * Seek help if you're being followed by driving to a safe
  location and or dialing 911.

Auto Theft Safety & Prevention

  * Make sure your car is locked at all times.
  * Never leave your vehicle running while unattended.
  * Always remove your keys while refueling.
  * Keep all personal items, such as checkbooks, personal
  identificaiton, purses, etc. out of sight.
  * Always activate any anti-theft you have on your vehicle.
  * Never leave high tech devices such as cell phone, lap top
  computers, etc. out in plain view.
  * Do not hide a spare key on your vehicle as professional
  thieves know where to look.

Before You Drive

  * Keep up with car maintenance.
  * Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
  * Be prepared for emergencies by having an emergency kit.
  * Consider installing a car alarm.
  * Plan ahead and consider the safest route while giving
  yourself enough time to arrive without speeding.

_____________________

Frequently Asked Questions

Insurance Glossary