Forest Agency Insurance

Is your jewelry protected against theft and loss?

Dan Browne — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:41:34 +0000

Did you know that the number one personal property claim for 2011 was jewelry?

Did you also know that all homeowners’ policies have limitations for the limits and coverage for jewelry?

For unscheduled jewelry there is a dollar limitation for theft of jewelry and a coverage limitation for the causes of loss (i.e., mysterious disappearance, or just losing a diamond is usually not covered).

That is why we recommend insuring your jewelry on a separate schedule.

Scheduling jewelry separately costs between $1-2 per $100 of coverage.

Other benefits of scheduling jewelry are:

There is no deductible.
The value of your jewelry is established with your insurance company.
You can obtain worldwide coverage, protecting against theft or loss abroad.
You will receive the best coverage available.
More coverage on your homeowners’ policy can be applied to other contents.

Coverage is subject to the policy terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions.

At Forest Agency our account executives have the knowledge and experience to help you protect your valuables.

Please contact us today to review your current coverage and discuss scheduled coverage of your valuable items.

Dan Browne

Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)

Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI)

Certified Professional Insurance Agent (CPIA)

BBA in Risk Management and Insurance, University of Georgia

Tornado Readiness This Spring

Gina Robbins — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:12:50 +0000

After the rash of Spring tornadoes we've already seen this year, you might want to consider taking a few precautions, and making sure that your family knows what to do if a tornado is headed your way. In a typical year, an average of 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide. But in recent years that annual count has been as high as double that number. In 2011 alone there were a total of 1691 twisters reported. As of the end of March, an unconfirmed 379 tornadoes had already been reported–and we really haven't hit the peak season yet!

In most cases, your homeowners insurance should cover any damage to your home from these dangerous storms. But being prepared, and informed about how to respond to an alert, could help limit your losses–and save your life.

Steps to take long before you see a funnel cloud:

Inspect your roof. Fix any areas that need repair, selecting materials that can withstand high wind.
If you plan to replace your windows, choose impact-resistant systems.
Anchor door frames to wall framing and make certain that your doors have at least three hinges, and a dead bolt security lock. The bolt should be at least one inch long.

Important tips when you know a tornado is headed your way:

If you are inside a building, move to an underground shelter, an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows and corners.
If you're in your car, get out immediately and find safe shelter or lie flat in a ditch. DO NOT take shelter under an overpass or bridge. Flying debris causes most injuries and fatalities, so use your arms to protect your head and neck.

If you have experienced tornado damage, contact your insurance agent or company immediately to report the claim.

How should my Chicago business prepare for the 2012 NATO summit?

Gina Robbins — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:38:32 +0000

On May 20-21 the NATO Summit is being held in Chicago. More than 7,500 dignitaries and 3,000 international journalists are expected to take part in activities. Officials also expect between 10,000 and 50,000 protesters to convene in our Windy City. Although most of the Summit activities will occur in the areas of McCormick Place and Navy Pier, the entire loop area will likely experience traffic delays, street closures, increased pedestrian traffic and increased security checkpoints.

While there is no way to predict how this event might affect your business, experts are recommending a prudent risk management approach covering preparedness. Some of the issues that you might think about are:

Insurance

Talk with your agent about your policies and update as appropriate

Building Security and Operations

Increase security, especially at building or office entrances; Consider a sign-in policy
Postpone customer meetings, and contractor service or repairs when possible
Set up a procedure for suspicious mail or packages
Check with security partners BOMA Chicago and Chicago Office of Emergency Management & Communications
Data Security
Ensure data backup, and digital/internet security practices (encryption, firewalls, password protection) are in place

Work Considerations

Check Notify Chicago for alerts on street closures and public transportation routes
Allow extra commute time
Avoid McCormick Place between May 19-22
Consider work-at-home options and arrange an alternative facility for continuing business
Review building closure policies

Communications

Begin communication expectations to building tenants and employees
Have a customer communications plan
Consider BOMA Chicago's recommendation to register for "Send Word Now," if you need a way to send out emergency notification information
Subscribe to receive alerts @ Alert Chicago and Notify Chicago
Monitor social media for threats, brand slander and other information

Emergency Evacuation Management

Review, update and distribute emergency management and evacuation plans
Run an emergency evacuation drill before May and revise procedures, as needed
Update emergency contact info for employees/tenants
Ensure fire alarms and sprinkler systems are in optimal operating condition

Spring Maintenance Tips

Gina Robbins — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:30:23 +0000

With last weekend's "spring forward," and Chicago temperatures spiking up to 70-80 degrees later this week, it might be time to attack your spring maintenance list. Here are a few helpful tips to be sure that your home and yard are safe and prepared for the coming season.

Inspect your smoke detectors. Make sure there is one on each floor of your home. You should test that they are fully operational each month and change the batteries annually, or as needed.
Check the lightbulbs in your home. Replace all high-intensity bulbs (such as incandescent) with fluorescent bulbs that don't produce as much heat. Make sure that each bulb has the correct wattage as recommended by the manufacturer.
Check for potential fire hazards by inspecting electrical outlets. Look for frayed wires, loose-fitting plugs, or overloaded outlets or extension cords.
Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible, filled and ready for operation.
Have your AC system inspected by a professional.
Check for winter damage to your roof, and clean gutters and downspouts.
Inspect water heater for leaks and corrosion.
Clean or replace furnace filter.
Clean out the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. Remove lint, dust, and pieces of material.
Trim healhty trees and bushes so that they are clear of utility wires and remove and dead trees or fallen branches.
Make sure that oil and gas for lawn equipment and tools are stored safely in a vented, locked area.
Repair cracked, broken or uneven driveways and walkways to provide a level walking surface.

Happy Spring! (Thanks to Traveler's Insurance for these spring maintenance tips.)

Health & Safety: Just a tap away with these mobile apps

Gina Robbins — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 17:35:16 +0000

Now that you have that hot new smartphone or tablet, you are going to do something more than play games and make calls, aren't you? They're called smartphones for a reason, you know. In fact, there are literally hundreds of programs or applications – apps for short – that can support and strengthen your knowledge, including many apps that deal with health and safety. Where you can find them depends on the type of device you have – iTunes exclusively for iPhones, and the Android Market (market.android.com) or the Amazon Apps Store for most others. Here's a sampling of some general health and safety apps that we like:

Nutrition: The best apps enable you to check the calorie and nutrient content of thousands of products and track your diet and weight-loss progress. Try the free MyFitnessPal, available for all devices.

Workout Programs: They can provide daily routines, measure progress, provide streaming video classes and even act as a pedometer using GPS to track your location. Try the free, Wall Street Journal recommended Cardio Trainer. (Remember to always consult a doctor before starting a new exercise program.)

First Aid Guides: For a good, all-around guide that includes advice on giving CPR, try Pocket First Aid and CPR from the American Heart Association. It's available on most platforms and costs 3-4 dollars. For a free alternative, consider WebMD or the well-rated Everyday First Aid.

Other Useful Apps: Whatever your safety need, there's almost certainly an app for it. For example:

Safety Button (iPhone) or Emergency + (Android) sends a text message when you're in trouble or in danger
Medscape (both platforms) – check interactions from a database of 8,000 drugs
Recalls (iTunes) or Recalls.gov (Android) lists consumer products and drugs that have been recalled

And don't forget that most mobile devices also have reader apps that enable you to download and store digital books. They can hold thousands, so you can build up your own first aid or fitness library – and always have it with you!

Now that you've gotten the best health and safety apps loaded on your new device, you can get back to Angry Birds!

Fire Safety Quiz

Gina Robbins — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:50:19 +0000

For more safety tips and quizzes, become a fan of our Facebook page today!

Watch out for windshield repair fraud

Gina Robbins — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:58:30 +0000

They're turning up all over…at gas stations, car washes, parking lots, even in your own driveway! I'm talking about "windshield bullies." They're on the loose and a major contributor to the 23 percent increase in fraudulent insurance claims this year.

Here's the scenario: a stranger approaches your car and points to a little spot on your windshield. He or she assures you he can easily fix it and file a claim with your insurance. In fact, this person may know nothing about windshield repair and might just be seeking an easy way to acquire your insurance information, using it to submit a fraudulent claim.

If you do have a damaged windshield, here are a few points to keep in mind:

Windshields provide important structural support that keeps drivers and passengers safe.
Damage up to the size of a dollar bill can often be repaired without having to replace the windshield.
Some small chips and pits may not threaten the windshield’s integrity.
Contact your insurance agent and ask for a referral to a trusted vehicle glass company who can properly diagnose and repair the damage.

And from your friends at Forest Agency, be careful out there!

We’re Moving and Will be Closed Friday Sept. 30

Gina Robbins — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 14:33:22 +0000

Forest Agency is moving and our offices will be closed on Friday September 30. We will have limited phone service available only for emergencies, and our voicemail system will be down all day. To report a claim, click on the link to “Our Companies.” If your issue is not urgent, please wait to contact us until Monday, October 3.

If you have an issue with your Aviation policy, please email us or refer to our Contact Page, and we will respond to you on Monday October 3.

We are looking forward to being in our beautiful new office, which will be bigger and offer easy access for visitors, with a convenient ground-floor entrance and plenty of street parking. Here's our new address:

7310 W. Madison Street, Forest Park, IL 60130

Our phone number will remain the same: (708) 383-9000

Thank you for your understanding during this transition!

Don’t become a victim to auto theft

Gina Robbins — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:10:23 +0000

Every 30 seconds, a motor vehicle is stolen in the United States. Using Federal Bureau of Investigation statistics, the National Insurance Crime Bureau reports that annual property losses from these thefts are approximately $5 billion. Although technology and aggressive law enforcement actions have lowered the auto theft rate in recent years, you should still be cognizant of this loss exposure. The following tips may prove helpful in reducing the chances that your vehicle or property in it may be stolen.

When temporarily leaving your vehicle, never leave it running or with the keys in the ignition.
Always lock your car and roll up the windows, even if it is in your driveway. If you have a garage, park your car in it, and close and lock the garage door.
Park in busy, well-lit areas.
When purchasing auto stereo equipment, choose items that can be removed and locked in the trunk.
When using valet parking or taking your car in for repairs, leave only the ignition key with the attendant.
Turn your wheels sharply toward the curb when parking since this makes it extra difficult for thieves to tow the vehicle. Always use your emergency brake, and leave the transmission in park or in gear.
Look into various antitheft devices for your auto. Ask about auto insurance discounts for antitheft devices, including alarms and window etchings.

Get more insurance and risk management tips and ideas from IRMI.

*****

Life Insurance: What are you waiting for?

Gina Robbins — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 18:33:41 +0000

No one likes to think about it. What if you were diagnosed with a terminal illness, or suffered a fatal accident? What if your were suddenly gone and your family members had to manage on their own? Have you done the math to figure out what they would need to remain financially secure? When was the last time you reviewed your life insurance needs with your agent?

Life insurance can provide substantial benefits to your family. It can provide loved ones the time to grieve. It can pay off outstanding debts, loans, and funeral costs. It can allow a family to continue living its established lifestyle, and may be able to fund a child’s college education. Unfortunately, many Americans do not carry enough life insurance to maintain their family’s financial security. Recent research indicates that 30% of US households carry no life insurance whatsoever. But you shouldn’t put it off any longer. Life insurance is often more affordable than you’d think. The sooner you evaluate your coverage needs, and attain the appropriate coverage, the more money you’ll save.

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, and the perfect time to sit down and review your needs with an agent. Forest Agency is a licensed life insurance provider and our agents can advise you on what coverage amount is appropriate for your family’s needs. Contact your agent today to discuss your options: (708) 393-9000.

Wondering whether your family needs life insurance? Take a look at this short video NBA great Lamar Odom made for the LIFE Foundation.