DeKok Insurance Group, Inc.

507-226-8121 [email protected]

Carbon Monoxide Safety

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DeKok Insurance Group Inc, Carbon Monoxide

Protect your family from the ‘silent killer’

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That’s why it’s important to know how to prevent it, detect it, and protect yourself and your family from its effects.

In the home, carbon monoxide is most commonly formed by flames and heaters, as well as vehicles or generators that are running in an attached garage. As temperatures drop and more people are cranking the heat and hovering over the stove inside and warming up the car’s engine before hitting the road, it’s especially critical to ensure your family’s safety against this lethal gas.

Since carbon monoxide cannot be detected without a carbon monoxide detection device, it is essential to install and maintain one or more detectors in your home.

Detector Tips

I want you and your family to stay protected, so check out the following tips from CAL FIRE San Diego County Fire Authority for safeguarding your household.

  • The International Association of Fire Chiefs recommends a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home, including the basement. A detector should be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door, and there should be one near or over any attached garage.
  • Each detector should be replaced every five to six years.
  • Battery-only carbon monoxide detectors tend to go through batteries more frequently than expected. Plug-in detectors with a battery backup (for use if power is interrupted) provide less battery-changing maintenance.
  • Thoroughly read the installation manual that comes with the individual detector you purchase. Manufacturers’ recommendations differ to a certain degree based on research conducted with detectors for specific brands.
  • Remember that carbon monoxide detectors do not serve as smoke detectors and vice versa. You can, however, purchase a dual smoke/carbon monoxide detector that can perform both functions.
  • Do not install carbon monoxide detectors next to fuel-burning appliances, as these appliances may emit a small amount of carbon monoxide upon startup.

In case of exposure

If you suspect that you or someone you know has been exposed to carbon monoxide, check for the following symptoms:

  • dull headache
  • weakness
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • shortness of breath
  • confusion
  • loss of consciousness

If any of the symptoms exist, move the individual into fresh air and seek emergency medical care immediately.

Jon

Email: [email protected]

Phone  507-226-8121


Arrow SetDeKok Insurance Group, Inc. Referral Program: When you tell your family and friends about your positive experience with my agency, and they call for a quote, I’ll send YOU a $20 gift card.

 

 

[tweetthis]Protect your family from the ‘silent killer.’ #CarbonMonoxide #DeKokInsuranceGroup[/tweetthis]

Home Inventory

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Home Inventory, DeKok Insurance Group Inc, Home Insurance, MN Insurance

This buffet was my Mom’s and Joy’s dad gave her these typewriters – they are valuable to us. This photo would give us a place to start replacement if a catastrophic event happened at our home.  Insurance can’t replace the emotional attachment we have to them, but we agree, it would be nice to physically replace them should a loss occur.

Why a Home Inventory Is Important

Let’s try a little exercise: Can you list everything you own from memory? I can’t either.

The fact is most people own more things than they realize. It’s easy to remember the cars, the computer, the TV. But what about that holiday china in the garage?  Or every pair of shoes? Or at our house, Joy’s books. 

All of it is regarded as personal property for insurance purposes. And if your home is destroyed by fire or some other disaster, having a list of your possessions makes filing a claim easier — and helps you put your life back together – faster.

Why should I complete a home inventory? What’s the best way?

Comparing the value of your belongings to the “contents” limit listed in your policy helps you make sure you have enough insurance to replace them if they are lost, stolen or destroyed as a result of a covered loss. The easiest way to take an inventory is to use a video camera, recording and describing items as you walk through your house. Or, you can use a regular camera and create a home inventory checklist.

Here are a few tips for completing and storing your inventory:

  • Use video or photographs – if you use video, you can use your voice to describe the items as  you go.
  • Add brand names and descriptions where you can, especially on large-ticket items. Serial numbers are helpful to note.
  • Keep any receipts you have with the list to make the claims process easier.
  • Store your video or photo inventory offsite so you won’t lose it if your house is damaged.
  • Update your personal property records when you purchase new furnishings and valuables.

Though the task may seem daunting, it’s important to try. An incomplete inventory is better than nothing at all.

How much insurance do I need?

I can assist you in analyzing your insurance needs and help you decide how to most effectively protect your personal property. You may want to consider full-value coverage, which will pay for the replacement value of your personal belongings. A standard policy typically covers personal property only up to its actual cash value, determined by taking the replacement cost and deducting depreciation, which can be substantial. (For example, a 5-year-old TV is usually worth much less than what it would cost to purchase a new one.)

Finally, remember your homeowners policy covers valuable items such as jewelry, furs, art and antiques, only up to set dollar amounts. If the cost of replacing them exceeds these limits, you may want to purchase scheduled personal property coverage.

The Insurance Information Institute has a FREE online tool that can help you create your inventory. Just visit www.knowyourstuff.org for more details.

I hope you’ll never need the home inventory, but preparing for the worst can prevent a lot of hassle later!

By the way, I have a question for you: If I could save you a substantial amount of money on your home and auto insurance, would you be interested in a quote? If your answer is yes, call me at 507-226-8121 or email me at [email protected] and let me know.

Jon

 

Arrow SetDeKok Insurance Group, Inc. Referral Program: When you tell your family and friends about your positive experience with my agency, and they call for a quote, I’ll send YOU a $20 gift card.

 

[tweetthis]Why should I complete a home inventory? #HomeInsurance #MNInsurance[/tweetthis]

[tweetthis]How much insurance do I need? #HomeInsurance #IndependentAgent #MNInsurance[/tweetthis]

Do You Have Commercial Umbrella Insurance?

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Commercial Umbrella Insurance

Commercial Insurance, Umbrella Insurance, DeKok Insurance Group Inc.

If umbrella policies are good for individuals, then they are imperative for business. When a catastrophic liability loss occurs, an umbrella insurance policy can mean the difference between a business surviving, or not.

The rising costs of lawsuits and judgments are important for today’s business owner to consider. Catastrophic liability losses can happen to any business at any time, and a commercial umbrella policy protects you when those losses exceed your basic liability coverage. The time and effort you have taken to build your business is too important for it to disappear after one unforeseen event. Call me at 507-226-8121 or email me at [email protected] today about a commercial umbrella insurance policy.

 What do MN Business Owners need to know about commercial umbrella insurance?

Commercial Umbrella helps you protect your assets by providing liability limits above and beyond your other policies. In some cases, it even broadens your protection. Due to the unpredictable nature of jury awards I recommend that your business insurance program include this coverage.

 What is Excess Liability Coverage?

This coverage provides extra liability limits over an Umbrella policy. This coverage typically follows the terms of the first underlying insurance policy.

 Who needs Excess Liability Coverage?

Higher limits may be necessary for businesses with high loss potential, high profile, sizable sales, numerous assets, large auto fleets, worldwide presence, significant public exposure.

Get in touch with me today about your business operations and I can advise you what kind of liability coverage you need to protect yourself and your company. Again, my number is: 507-226-8121. I’ll help you make sure you’re covered correctly.

Jon

Arrow SetDeKok Insurance Group, Inc. Referral Program: When you tell your family and friends about your positive experience with my agency, and they call for a quote, I’ll send YOU a $20 gift card.

[tweetthis] What do MN Business Owners need to know about commercial umbrella insurance?[/tweetthis]

 

Graphic purchased from Fotolia and used with permission © Brian Jackson – Fotolia.com

Winter Storms – Be Prepared

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Winter Storms Ahead: Are You Ready?

DeKok Insurance Group Inc, Winter Storms,

It’s already been one of those winters here in Minnesota.  We know it can be worse because it has been. In April 2013, broke all previous snowfall records and on May 2, 2013 – it snowed! 

Winter storms mean traffic snarls, hillsides turning to sheets of ice, and cars sliding around like hockey pucks. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to burst, frost swells and other damage. Heating your home with fireplaces and holiday lighting can increase the risk of fire.

A picture-perfect winter requires a few precautions. . .

  • Winter-proof your car with good snow tires or chains, new wiper blades, antifreeze, and emergency road supplies.
  • Keep your attic cool to help prevent ice dams. Insulate the attic floor and make sure it is well-ventilated.
  • Do not overload circuits with holiday decorations.

When winter storms hit, be smart. . .

  • If you do not have to drive, stay put. If you must drive, make sure you’ve winterized your car and have a full tank of gas.
  • When the air is cold, keep bath and kitchen cabinet doors open so warm air can circulate around pipes. If pipes do freeze, let them thaw normally—they’ll be less likely to burst.
  • And if the power is out, make sure you avoid leaving candles or fires burning unattended. If you use a portable generator, follow the instructions and do not use it indoors.

Know what your insurance covers. . .

We want to help you rest easy.  You will be more relaxed when you know you have prepared your property to lessen the chance of winter storm damage. Your insurance policy covers repair or rebuilding costs. However, your deductible does apply. Check your policy to see what is covered and to confirm the deductible you have chosen.

If you have any questions at all about your coverage, call me at 507-226-8121 or email me at [email protected] and I will help you review your options.

Jon

 

Arrow SetDeKok Insurance Group, Inc. Referral Program: When you tell your family and friends about your positive experience with my agency, and they call for a quote, I’ll send YOU a $20 gift card.

 

[tweetthis]Winter Storms Ahead: Are You Ready? #Winter #Minnesota #Insurance[/tweetthis]

 

Photo purchased from Fotolia and used with permission.

Valentines Day – When You Say Be Mine With Jewelry

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Have some new jewelry in the house? Protect it!

Valentines Day, Jewelry, DeKok Insurance Group Inc.

Valentine’s Day is near, and love is in the air. Well, love and a few other things, such as chocolates, romantic dinners, candy hearts that say “Be Mine” – and, maybe, jewelry.

It’s exciting to receive jewelry from a loved one — or to give it as a gift. Not to mention romantic. But if you’re lucky enough to have some new jewelry in your home this Valentine’s Day, you should take a few minutes to think about something you probably don’t find exciting or romantic: insurance.

Don’t know where to turn? Don’t worry. At DeKok Insurance Group, I can help and am ready to help and can answer all of your jewelry coverage or other insurance questions.

Things to consider when insuring jewelry:

  • You may need to purchase additional coverage. Your homeowners policy covers valuable items such as jewelry only up to set amounts. If the cost of replacing your jewelry exceeds that limit, you will want to purchase scheduled personal property coverage. You can check your policy or give us a call at 507-226-8121.
  • You might want to reconsider your deductible amounts. As always, this impacts your policy premium. It’s a good idea to take a look at your deductibles whenever you make a change to your policy.
  • Do you need an appraisal? You may need to have an independent appraisal if the insurance company requires it or if you don’t know the value of your jewelry. Each item should be listed with a description and value on paper.
  • What kind of coverage is offered? You’ll want to determine if items are covered no matter where they are, whether they’re in Minnesota, or on an international trip, and if the policy offers full replacement cost. You also should ask if you will be required to replace your jewelry if lost or stolen, or if you can simply keep the cash settlement.
  • Pictures can be helpful. Lost or stolen pieces of jewelry sometimes can be recreated if the jeweler has a good photograph to work from.
  • Should I go with a company that specializes in jewelry insurance? There are companies that specialize in jewelry insurance. Whether you choose one of these, or a company that we represent, you’ll want to make sure they are reputable and stable.
  • Is the value of your jewelry mainly sentimental? Is an item irreplaceable? If the answer to either of these questions is “yes,” you might consider foregoing insurance. But please, give me a call before making that decision. That’s what I’m here for.

Of course, it’s important to store your jewelry securely when it’s not in use; a safe in your home or a safe-deposit box is best. We want your jewelry to be replaced if it’s lost or stolen, but we’d rather your sentimental and valuable pieces stay with you and your family for years to come.

Here’s hoping your Valentine’s Day is full of fun and romance. And if there’s no jewelry involved, well, there’s always next year!

Jon

Email: [email protected]

Phone  507-226-8121


Arrow SetDeKok Insurance Group, Inc. Referral Program: When you tell your family and friends about your positive experience with my agency, and they call for a quote, I’ll send YOU a $20 gift card.

[tweetthis]When You Say Be Mine With Jewelry #ValentinesDay #Jewelry #Insurance[/tweetthis]

Content provided by DeKok Insurance Group & Safeco Insurance

Graphic purchased from Fotolia and used with permission  © Stanislav Prokopenko – Fotolia.com