Safety

Cars and deer can be a lethal combination. Deer migration and mating season generally runs from October through December, and causes a dramatic increase in the movement of the deer population. As a result, more deer-vehicle collisions occur in this period than at any other time of year, so drivers need to be especially cautious, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

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If the hood of your car unexpectedly pops open while you're driving, it can be a dangerous situation and should be handled with caution. Here's what may happen and what you should do:
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For nature lovers, many of the most memorable moments take place in the great outdoors, whether it's catching your first trout on a fly rod or summiting a peak. This is also where people often find the most solace, as time in nature can bring a sense of peace. Unless, of course, things go wrong.
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Summer's generally agreeable weather and extended daylight hours in Minnesota make it an ideal season to tackle renovations, remodels, and other household fix-its. Still, these projects aren't without inherent challenges and risks. A little due diligence at the onset can do much to minimize unhappy surprises and make for successful, stress-free (or, at least, as close as it gets) renovations.
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As winter thaws into spring blossoms, summer beckons with backyard cookouts and campfires under the stars. Like many people in Minnesota, spring also means an overhaul of all the recreational toys and gear that make those summertime adventures comfortable, including the family camper. Here are some considerations when readying your RV for all the camping and travel expeditions ahead.
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While the bluster and bite of winter may still reign over much of the country, spring melts and the months of outdoor recreation they usher forth are just around the corner. Now is the time to survey summer gear and prepare for the active months ahead. Boating, camping, and cycling gear can all benefit from a seasonal tune-up. Here are some recommendations for fun summer adventuring.
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The holiday season is upon us, meaning it's time to be jolly, gather with friends and family, and, hopefully, stay safe. But in addition to the things we're all wishing for, the holidays can bring some unwanted gifts in the form of accidents, damages, or injuries that might result in an insurance claim. So what are the most common holiday-related insurance claims and how can you avoid them? Read on to find out.

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Recreational Vehicle (RV) sales soared during the pandemic, as stir-crazy families across the U.S. realized that road trips might be the safest and only way to get out of the house. And according to recent consumer reports, the trend shows no signs of slowing.
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You practice safe habits on the road, but do you do the same when you're fueling your vehicle? While static electricity-fueled fires at gas stations do not happen frequently, they do happen, and most often in cool, cold or dry weather. Don't put you or your family at risk. Here's what you need to know to stay safe while filling up.

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Did you know that each year, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, thousands of teens are injured or killed in driving accidents? That's why this time period is called the '100 deadliest days for teenagers'.

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Electrical safety involving outlets, plugs and extension cords is one of the most important home safety issues. U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 34,000 structure fires a year involving an electrical fire or malfunction¹, but there are steps that homeowners and tenants can take to help prevent electrical fires.

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Icy weather can create challenging, and potentially dangerous, driving conditions in the winter months. Black ice forms on roadways and can produce a nearly invisible hazard. As temperatures approach freezing, icy conditions can develop, especially on roadways where elevation is higher, and bridges and overpasses. Adjusting your driving behavior for these conditions can help keep you, and others around you, safe on the road this winter.

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Car crashes are the leading cause of death among children from infancy to 12 years of age. Despite this horrifying trend, it is estimated that between 40 and 45 percent children killed in car crashes were improperly restrained.

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Summer is here, which means you're likely seeing more motorcycles on the road. And the key word here is "see." People driving cars and trucks often fail to notice the motorcyclists around them, partly because they're not accustomed to looking for them.

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Although motorcycle enthusiasts in certain areas of the country are able to ride year round, spring and summer is when most bike owners are finally able to get out there on the open road. Before you take that first ride, make sure that your bike is up to the task and ready to go. Motorcycle maintenance and safety go hand-in-hand, and keeping your bike in great shape will ensure a great ride.

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A growing colony of recreational drones is taking over our skies. There are millions of them. Literally, millions.

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While many people have already begun to dismantle their manger scenes and pack those ornaments neatly away for the next 11 months, others may be putting off taking down outside lights until the weather is a little warmer. While on the whole that may seem like a solid plan, outdoor lights are actually not meant for prolonged exposure to the elements- meaning if you have had them up since November, it might be time to take them down.

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After making it through midterms and the bleakest months of winter, spring break is more than enough reason for high school and college students to celebrate. But many spring break "traditions" in the U.S. have a dark side, and can sometimes result in life-changing consequences or even death.

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Winter sports are all about making the most of the frigid temperatures. But because conditions can be so unpredictable, there are also some serious safety concerns that go along with being active outdoors this time of year. Here's how to stay safe and get the most out of your favorite winter sports from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating, hockey, sledding and snowshoeing.
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It's that time of year again - the holiday season is in full swing, and many people are hanging holiday lights, putting up Christmas trees, and decorating their homes for the holidays. If you're planning on purchasing a real tree this year, it's important to arrive at the tree lot prepared. Keep the following tips in mind to help you transport your tree safely:

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Carbon monoxide is a tasteless, colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Sources of carbon monoxide include:

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According to the World Health Organization, falls are the second leading cause of accidental injury deaths worldwide. Falling disproportionately impacts adults age 65 and older, and can lead to serious injury, further health problems, decreased quality of life, and a loss of independence.
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With crisp winds and piles of leaves on the ground, there is no doubt that fall is in full swing. Many people enjoy the season by gathering with friends around a fire or toasting marshmallows with their families. Even if you are simply burning leaves, we encourage you to keep the following fire safety tips in mind:

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It can be a stressful situation if your car breaks down while you're on the road. While regular maintenance to your vehicle can help avoid serious issues, there's no way to guarantee that your car will run as it should at all times. The best way to handle these situations is to be prepared. Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you experience car trouble while driving:

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Home improvement: It's a never-ending process for many people, and for those of us who aren't necessarily handy, it can be a hassle, too.

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Have you eaten while driving? Most people have done this more than they care to admit. But the truth is that this poses a distraction-and you know what can happen when you're distracted!

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They may be your own, or they're your grandkids or your friend' kids, but driving with kids is a task that should always be taken seriously. Having kids in the car can be quite distracting. Perhaps they are fighting in the back seat, or maybe one is asking you for a snack while the other has to make an urgent bathroom stop. Paying attention to the road and to the kids is a trying experience. Read these tips to find out how to keep your pint-sized passengers safe and sound, for any trip at any age.
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Is there a winter storm on the horizon? Take some time now to gather the supplies you will need to ride out the storm at home, or to safely venture outside if you must. Once you have taken the appropriate precautions, you can focus on enjoying the winter wonderland outside your window.

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You can lose power to you home at any time of year. Here are a few tips to help make sure you are prepared for a power outage:

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No matter where we live we all need to be aware of the extra precautions necessary to safe winter driving. It's better to prepare ahead rather than rely on a crash course (sorry for the pun).

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10 Things to Do to Prepare Your Home for Fall

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We all want to be the one to find a gift that makes the holidays unforgettable for that special child in our lives.Whether you're a parent, aunt, neighbor or godparent, don't let your quest for holiday magic steer you towards a purchase that might be unsafe or inappropriate.

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Getting ready for winter weather

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Summer in Minnesota is coming and with it is the opportunity to experience all kinds of warm-weather mishaps. Here are some common summer dangers and how to avoid them.
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April showers eventually bring May flowers, but in the meantime, wetter and warmer temperatures can cause a variety of hazards along the way. Here are some common spring safety issues, and ways you can prevent their potentially harmful consequences:
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A Christmas tree is a non-negotiable tradition for many families during the holidays. But even those who look forward to those twinkling lights and strings of popcorn may have a small child or mischievous cat that makes having a tree difficult and sometimes even dangerous.
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Back-to-school season can be both exciting and stressful; families in Minnesota are typically busy shopping for backpacks and school supplies while trying to squeeze in a few more pool days before the leaves fall.
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They come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, from the rounded-off, vintage "teardrop" types to the mirror-shiny Airstreams and the clever pop-up models. Some are strictly no-frills, utilitarian shelters for fishermen to park by the river for a few days; others are incredibly appointed bastions of luxury that seem as long as a city block and can keep a family of 12 comfortable and. Summer is at its peak, and it's not just the hot sunshine, sandals, and barbecues that remind us; it's the amazing assortment of travel trailers moving all over the U.S. highways. Families love to travel in the summer, and what better way to do it than with a mobile house on wheels towed behind your car or truck, providing all the comforts of home in virtually any new locale you desire?
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Most new parents would probably admit that their driving habits changed after having children. The one-time daredevil of the highway has transformed into a doting dad who never pushes the speedometer past a sluggish 65 mph; the lady lead foot who laughed in the faces of cops is now a minivan-loving, law abider who cruises so slow she would try the patience of a turtle.
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As winter starts to set in most of us will be spending more time indoors. Now is a good time to review this checklist for safety, comfort, and savings. Around your home...
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