8 Ways To Identify and Avoid Phone Scams

Date: February 25, 2026 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Every year, people report fraud, identity theft and bad business practices to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and law enforcement partners. As such, the chances are likely that you have or will be on the receiving end of a phone scam. Technology has made this even easier as scammers leverage robocalls or spoofing tools to change phone numbers. This article highlights the warning signs of scams and tips on protecting yourself from phone scams.

Warning Signs

Recognizing the common signs of a scam could help you avoid falling for one. Here are some general indications that a call or text is a scam:

Scammers pretend to be from a familiar organization. Scammers may pose as someone from a charity, utility company, law enforcement or federal agencies. They may use a real organization name or make up something that sounds official.
Scammers say there’s a problem or a prize. Remember, if you have to pay to get the prize, it’s not really a prize.
Scammers pressure you to act immediately. Legitimate businesses will give you time to think about their offer. Real businesses won’t make you stay on the phone (so you can’t check out the story) nor threaten to arrest you, sue you or take away your driver’s license.
Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way. There’s never a good reason to send cash, pay with a gift card, wire money or pay using a transfer app. These methods make it difficult for you to get your money back, which is ideal for scammers.

Phone scams come in many forms, but they often make similar promises or threats. Trust your gut if something seems off or too good to be true.

Consumer Tips

To prevent unwanted robocalls and phony texts and potentially avoid phone scams, the FTC recommends the following tips:

Block unwanted calls and text messages. Talk to your phone company about call blocking tools they may have and check into apps that you can download to your mobile device to block unwanted calls and text messages.
Register your number on the Do Not Call Registry. Legitimate telemarketers consult this list to avoid calling both landline and wireless phone numbers on the list.
Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. If you answer a robocall, hang up immediately. Remember that even though caller ID may show a “local” number, the call isn’t necessarily from a local caller, as it could be spoofed.
Don’t provide your personal or financial information in response to a request that you didn’t expect. Legitimate organizations won’t call, email or text to ask for your personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank account or credit card numbers.
Understand how scammers tell you to pay. Never pay someone who insists you pay with a gift card or a money transfer service. Additionally, you should never deposit a check and send money back to someone.
Resist the pressure to act immediately. Legitimate businesses will provide you time to make a decision or provide payment. If it seems rushed or threatening, it’s likely a scammer.
Don’t click on any links even if you get a text from a company you usually do business with and think it’s real. Instead, contact the company using a trustworthy website or look up their phone number. Don’t call the number they provided or the number from your caller ID.
Talk to someone you trust. Before you do anything, tell a friend, family member, neighbor or other trusted person what happened. Talking about it could help you realize it’s a scam.

If you spot a scam or have given money to a scammer, you can report it to the FTC by filing a consumer complaint online or calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357). You can also visit the agency’s website to learn more about other consumer topics and more ways to protect yourself from scammers.

Is Your Vehicle Prepared For Winter Storms And Extreme Cold?

Date: February 4, 2026 Author: Rinehart Insurance

While the amount of danger from winter weather varies across the country, nearly all Americans are likely to face some degree of severe winter weather throughout their lives. Winter storms can range from moderate snow over the course of a few hours to a blinding blizzard that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures, strong winds, ice, sleet and freezing rain.

A primary concern during winter storms and extreme cold is commuting safely. Most businesses, events and activities will only close down during the worst storms or extreme temperatures during winter. As such, it’s vital that you have your vehicle prepared for winter weather to make commuting in these conditions as safe as possible.

Winterize Your Vehicle

Check or have a mechanic review the following items on your car:

Antifreeze levels—Ensure these levels are sufficient to avoid freezing.
Battery and ignition system—This system should be in proper working condition, and all battery terminals should be clean.
Brakes—Check all brakes for potential damages or wear and tear.
Exhaust system—Check this system for leaks and crimped pipes, and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning of its presence.
Fuel and air filters—Have filters replaced regularly and keep water out of the system by using additives, as well as maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
Heater and defroster—Ensure that both of these items work properly.
Lights and flashing hazard lights—Check all lights for potential damages and overall serviceability.
Oil—Check oil level and weight. Heavier oils congeal at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.
Thermostat—Ensure that this item works properly.
Windshield wiper equipment—Review this equipment for potential damages. Repair any problems and ensure a proper washer fluid level.
Winter tires—Make sure all tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require vehicles to be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs in winter weather conditions.

Update the emergency kit in your vehicle with these items:

A shovel
A windshield scraper and small broom
A flashlight
A battery-powered radio
Extra batteries
Water
Non-perishable food items
Matches
Extra hats, socks and mittens
A first-aid kit with a pocket knife
Any necessary medications
Blankets
A tow chain or rope
Road salt and sand
Booster cables
Emergency flares
Fluorescent distress flags

If You Are Stranded in a Vehicle

If a blizzard traps you in the car:

Pull off the highway. Turn on the hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window.
Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful—distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close, but be too far to walk to in deep snow.
Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe. This will protect you from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Exercise to maintain your body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
Eat regularly and drink ample fluids to avoid dehydration, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs—the use of lights, heat and radio—with supply.
Turn on the inside light at night so work crews or rescuers can see you.
If stranded in a remote area, stomp large block letters in an open area spelling out “HELP” or “SOS” and line the letters with rocks or tree limbs to attract the attention of rescue personnel who may be surveying the area by air.
Leave the car and proceed on foot—if necessary—once the blizzard passes.

Know the Terms

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify winter storm hazards:

Freezing rain—This is rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet—This is rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Winter weather advisory—This means that winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life-threatening.
Winter storm watch—This means that a winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio, commercial radio or local television for more information.
Winter storm warning—This means that a winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
Blizzard warning—This means that sustained winds or frequent gusts (35 mph or greater) and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
Frost/freeze warning—This means that below-freezing temperatures are expected.

Rinehart, Walters & Danner is committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when disaster strikes. For additional risk management guidance, contact us today.

What You Need To Know About Winter Storms, And How To Prepare

Date: January 28, 2026 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Preparing for winter storms is crucial to your safety. As such, it’s important to become familiar with winter storm warning signals and appropriate prevention measures so that you can avoid cold weather injuries.

Winter Weather Warnings

Familiarize yourself with the following weather alerts in order to know what actions you may need to take:

Winter storm watch—Be alert, because a storm is likely.
Winter weather advisory—Experts expect conditions to cause significant hazards, especially to motorists.
Frost/freeze warning—Experts expect below-freezing temperatures and potential damage to plants or crops.
Winter storm warning—Take action, because a storm is entering—or is already in—the local area.
Blizzard warning—A combination of snow and strong winds will produce blinding snow, minimal visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening temperatures. Seek refuge immediately.

Preventing Cold Weather Injuries

To prevent serious injuries from extreme cold, do the following:

Select proper clothing for cold, wet and windy conditions, and layer clothing when possible, making sure to include layers that repel moisture away from the skin.
Take frequent breaks in warm, dry shelters whenever possible.
Avoid overexerting yourself, as your body needs this energy to keep your muscles warm.
When you know you will be exposed to extreme cold, prepare yourself warm beverages to drink and high-calorie foods to consume. However, avoid drinks containing caffeine or alcohol.

Other Winter Storm Hazards

Be on the lookout for the following winter storm hazards:

Adverse driving conditions, such as low visibility and slippery roadways
Icy walkways and sidewalks, which could cause slips and falls
Falling objects, like icicles, tree limbs and utility poles
Electrocution due to downed power lines or downed objects in contact with power lines
Exhaustion, dehydration and back injuries from conducting manual labor in the snow

We hope this information helps to keep you and your family safe during any winter storms we may receive this year!

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Doing Home Renovations

Date: January 21, 2026 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Whether you’re building a new home addition, adding a feature like a swimming pool, redoing a bathroom or upgrading an electrical system, understanding and addressing possible renovation risks is critical.

5 Key Renovation Considerations
In the lead-up to your project, your broker can help review potential risks and concerns that may require attention. Specifically, you’ll want to account for the following:

Increasing coverage limits
Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or finishing your basement, renovations are likely to increase your home’s replacement cost, meaning previous home insurance policy limits may be insufficient.

Greater liability risks
Standard home insurance typically includes personal liability coverage, but you may need to enhance this element of your policy if additions introduce new risks. For example, if you add a swimming pool to your property, you could be held responsible if guests are injured while using it.

Additional policy needs
When planning your project, identify additional types of insurance you may need. You may need builders risk insurance to cover temporary structures, equipment and materials, as well as personal umbrella coverage if other parties will be working on the project.

Confirm contractor insurance
If you’re hiring a contractor to work on your home, you should make sure they are bonded and insured. Ask for copies of their proof of insurance documents and verify that coverage limits and other details are sufficient.

Understand vacancy rules
Temporarily vacating your home during construction may invalidate your home insurance, as such policies typically only apply while you’re living there. Unoccupied properties are considered riskier due to a higher chance of burglaries, vandalism and other incidents.

Keeping your insurance carrier informed about any renovation or improvement plans is critical. Failing to conduct this due diligence could leave you underinsured. Furthermore, insurers may consider canceling or issuing a nonrenewal for your policy if you don’t keep them in the loop.

Contact our team today to discuss your future home projects and subsequent homeowners insurance coverage needs.

Snow Shoveling Safety Reminders For You and Your Family

Date: December 17, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

When winter arrives—often bringing low temperatures and snowfall with it—the seasonal transition may require you to start periodically shoveling snow. Although this task is necessary to help clear pathways and prevent ice buildup, shoveling snow comes with serious safety risks.

After all, repeated shoveling requires significant physical exertion, which—when paired with the frigid outdoor elements—can take a dangerous toll on your body. That’s why it’s crucial to utilize proper precautions while you shovel snow.

Review the following guidance to learn more about the risks of shoveling snow and what you can do to protect yourself.

The Risks of Shoveling Snow

The most prevalent risks associated with shoveling snow include:

Sprains and strains—Because shoveling requires you to repeatedly move potentially heavy amounts of snow in an awkward position for an extended period, this task can easily cause sprains and strains if you aren’t careful. These injuries typically occur in your wrists, shoulders, back and ankles.
Hypothermia—Working in cold weather can heighten your risk of experiencing hypothermia, which occurs when your body’s core temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, drowsiness, shallow breathing, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination and unconsciousness. Severe cases of hypothermia can be fatal.
Frostbite—Working in chilly conditions can also increase your risk of developing frostbite, which entails a freezing of the skin and its underlying tissues. Frostbite can result in stinging, numbness and blistering in the affected areas (usually your fingers, toes or face). If left untreated, frostbite can cause permanent tissue damage.
Heart complications—If you overexert yourself while shoveling snow, the cold weather could contribute to a sharp rise in your heart rate and blood pressure, thus decreasing your overall blood supply and potentially causing a heart attack—which could be fatal.

General Best Practices

Here are some basic safety precautions to keep in mind when shoveling snow:

Avoid shoveling immediately after eating or while smoking.
Take a few minutes to stretch before you begin shoveling to better prepare your body for the physical demands of the task.
Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift snow while shoveling, use a smaller shovel or only partially fill your shovel with snow to avoid lifting too much at a time. In addition, be sure to lift with your legs rather than your back.
Don’t overexert yourself. Pay attention to how you feel while you shovel—never work to the point of exhaustion. If you begin to feel overly fatigued, stop shoveling and inform your supervisor.
When handling large amounts of snow, consider utilizing a snow blower rather than a shovel to avoid the extra labor. However, make sure you are properly trained to do so. Always consult your supervisor before making any equipment changes.
Make sure you know the key signs of a heart attack (e.g., chest discomfort, shortness of breath and pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach). If you start to experience these symptoms, stop shoveling and call 911 (or ask someone to call for you, if necessary).

How to Prevent Hypothermia and Frostbite

Be sure to implement these additional safety measures to prevent hypothermia and frostbite:

Always check the weather before working outdoors to properly prepare yourself. Try to limit your time shoveling if weather conditions are extremely cold, wet or windy.
Make sure you dress appropriately for the task at hand. Wear several loose layers of clothing, a warm hat that fully covers your head and ears, mittens (rather than gloves) and thick socks that will keep your feet dry.

Safety First

Your safety is our first priority. Talk to your supervisor you have any further questions or concerns about shoveling snow.

Snow shoveling safety tips for a safer winter – From our friends at EMC Insurance

4 Tips You Need To Know When You Do Winter Vehicle Storage

Date: October 29, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

When winter comes and brings the snow and cold with it, it’s time to think about vehicle storage. You should store your recreational vehicle – or any vehicles that won’t be in use – to avoid damage from the harsh weather and roads and to ensure it’s in good working condition for spring.

Use these tips if you plan on vehicle storage this winter:

Clean your car—Thoroughly cleaning your vehicle inside and out not only makes it look nicer, but also prevents dirt and acidic materials from eating away at your car and causing it to rust.
Change the fluids—Having clean oil, fuel stabilizer and brake fluid, and a full tank of gas will help protect your car while it’s in storage and will help it run smoother when spring comes.
Protect your car—The best way to prevent the winter elements from damaging your vehicle is to keep it covered, whether it’s in your garage, a local storage facility or at a family member’s home. If you plan on keeping your vehicle outdoors, consider using a weatherproof car cover.
Check tires and brakes—Inflate your vehicle’s tires to their maximum air pressure, so they can slowly deflate as the temperature drops. Also, don’t engage your parking brake as it may become frozen. Instead, use chocks (wedges placed under car tires) to ensure your vehicle doesn’t roll away.

Start it Up

Even in storage, it’s wise to start your vehicle periodically for 10-15 minutes to get the proper oils and coolants running through it. If your vehicle has a cover on it, remove it and roll down the windows before running. If your vehicle is stored in the garage, ensure that the garage door is open and the windows are down for proper ventilation before starting your car.

Don’t forget to call you insurance agent to discuss your auto insurance coverage as well.

4 Fall Driving Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Date: October 1, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Fall can be a particularly dangerous time to drive. Fortunately, by considering the following guidance, you may be able to limit your risk of accidents:

Watch for children.
With school back in session, you should be mindful of increased foot traffic, as well as the frequent presence of school buses.

Prioritize lighting.
As the days get shorter, you may find yourself driving in the dark more often. Be sure to turn on your headlights as soon as it starts to get dark.

Consider driving conditions.
Avoid driving at excessive speeds and take your time when changing lanes or making other maneuvers, as fog, frost and fallen leaves can all affect your visibility and traction.

Be mindful of animals.
Many animals may become more active during the fall, including deer. Take particular care to watch the sides of roads at dawn and twilight, as this is when many animals are most active.

Common Open Enrollment Terms To Help You Navigate Your Benefits Options

Date: September 10, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Open enrollment is reserved for employees to make changes to their benefits elections. This yearly period allows you to change or renew your health care coverage or the upcoming calendar year. Understanding your employee benefits can feel overwhelming, especially if the vocabulary surrounding benefits is unfamiliar to you. Learning the terminology can help you feel more confident when choosing or reviewing your coverage. Use these definitions of common open enrollment terms to help you navigate your benefits options.

Common Open Enrollment Terms

Coinsurance is the amount or percentage you pay for certain covered health care services under your health plan. This is typically the amount paid after a deductible is met, and it can vary based on the plan design.

Consumer Driven Health Care (CDHC) are health insurance programs and plans that are intended to give you more control over your health care expenses. Under CDHC plans, you can use health care services more effectively and have more control over your health care dollars. CDHC plans are designed to be more affordable because they offer reduced premium costs in exchange for higher deductibles. Health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) are
common examples of CDHC plans.

Copayment (copay) is a flat fee that you pay toward the cost of covered medical services.

Covered charges are health care expenses that are covered under your health plan.

Deductibles are a specific dollar amount you pay out of pocket before benefits are available through a health plan. Under some plans, the deductible is waived for certain services.

Dependents are individuals who meet eligibility requirements under a health plan and are enrolled in the plan as a qualified dependent.

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are accounts that allow you to save tax-free dollars for qualified medical and/or dependent care expenses that are not reimbursed. You determine how much you want to contribute to the FSA at the beginning of the plan year. Most funds must be used by the end of the year, as there is only a limited carryover amount.

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are types of health insurance plans that usually limit coverage to care from doctors who work for or contract within a specified network. Premiums are paid monthly, and a small copayment is due for each office visit and hospital stay. HMOs require you to select a primary care physician responsible for managing and coordinating all of your health care.

Health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) are employer owned medical savings accounts in which the company deposits pre-tax dollars for each of its covered employees. Employees can then use this account to reimburse qualified health care expenses.

Health savings accounts (HSAs) are employee-owned medical savings accounts used to pay for eligible medical expenses. Funds contributed to the account are pre-tax and do not have to be used within a specified time period. HSAs must be coupled with qualified high deductible health plans (HDHPs).

High deductible health plans (HDHPs) are qualified health plans that combine very low monthly premiums in exchange for higher deductibles and out-of-pocket limits. These plans are often coupled with an HSA.

In-network is health care received from your primary care physician or a specialist within an outlined list of health care practitioners. Inpatient refers to a person who is treated as a registered patient in a hospital or other health care facility.

Medically necessary (or medical necessity) are services or supplies provided by a hospital, health care facility or physician that meet the following criteria: (1) are appropriate for the symptoms and diagnosis and/or treatment of the condition, illness, disease or injury; (2) serve to provide diagnosis or direct care and/or treatment of the condition, illness, disease or injury; (3) are in accordance with standards of good medical practice; (4) are not primarily serving as convenience; and (5) are considered the most appropriate care available.

Medicare is an insurance program administered by the federal government to provide health coverage to individuals aged 65 and older or who have specific disabilities or illnesses.

Members are those enrolled in a health plan. This includes eligible employees, their dependents, Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) beneficiaries and surviving spouses.

Out-of-network is health care you receive without a physician referral or services received from a nonnetwork service provider. Out-of-network health care and plan payments are subject to deductibles and copayments.

Out-of-pocket expenses are the amount that you must pay toward the cost of health care services. This includes deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. Out-of-pocket maximums (OOPMs) are the highest out-of-pocket amount paid for covered services during a benefit period.

Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) are health plans that offer both in-network and out-of-network benefits. Members must choose one of the in-network providers or facilities to receive the highest level of benefits.

Premium is the amount you pay for a health plan in exchange for coverage. Health plans with higher deductibles typically have lower premiums.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are doctors who are selected to coordinate treatment under your health plan. This generally includes family practice physicians, general practitioners, internists and pediatricians.

This cheat sheet does not account for every term or definition you may see during open enrollment, but it provides an overview of some of the most common ones.
If you have questions, check with your employer for further resources.

Common Causes and Consequences of Underinsurance For Small Businesses

Date: August 13, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Robust insurance coverage is a cornerstone of effective risk management for small businesses. A single uninsured event—such as a fire, flood, cyberattack or critical equipment failure—can cause severe financial disruption, halt operations and, in some cases, threaten long-term viability. Yet, despite these risks, underinsurance remains a frequently overlooked vulnerability. Whether due to outdated valuations or cost-cutting decisions, carrying insufficient coverage can leave small businesses dangerously exposed when a claim arises.

Common Causes of Underinsurance

Several factors contribute to underinsurance in small businesses, including the following:

Outdated property valuations—Small business owners may overlook the need to regularly update the value of their buildings, equipment or inventory, resulting in coverage that no longer reflects current replacement costs.
Business growth without policy updates—Small business owners may add staff, locations or assets without adjusting their insurance coverage, leaving new exposures unprotected and increasing the risk of uncovered losses.
Misunderstanding policy terms—Small business owners may misinterpret complex policy language, leading to incorrect assumptions about what is covered, when coverage applies and how limits or sublimits work.
Focusing solely on premiums—Small business owners may focus on minimizing insurance costs without considering the implications of reduced coverage limits, broader exclusions or how higher deductibles compromise coverage.
Neglecting emerging risks—Small business owners may fail to account for new threats such as cyberattacks, climate-related events or supply chain disruptions that may not be covered under standard policies.

The Consequences of Being Underinsured

The financial and operational consequences of underinsurance can be significant. Small businesses may face:

Partial or denied claims—Insurance may not fully cover the cost of losses if coverage limits are too low or exclusions apply, leaving the business responsible for the uncovered portion.
Prolonged downtime—Without adequate business interruption coverage, a business may struggle to meet ongoing expenses during recovery, increasing the risk of extended closures or permanent shutdown.
Legal and regulatory exposure—Insufficient liability coverage can leave businesses vulnerable to lawsuits, fines or penalties, particularly in highly regulated industries.
Reputational damage—Delays in service or failure to meet obligations due to uninsured losses can erode customer trust and harm long-term relationships.

Strategies to Avoid Underinsurance

To minimize the risk of underinsurance, small business owners should routinely reassess their insurance coverage, particularly after operational changes such as expansion, new hires or equipment upgrades. Obtaining professional appraisals of property and assets is also essential, especially during periods of inflation or supply chain volatility. Additionally, businesses should evaluate whether their existing policies account for emerging risks like cyberthreats, climate-related events or evolving liability exposures.

Work With a Knowledgeable Insurance Agent or Broker

Small business owners should carefully examine policy terms and understand any exclusions to reduce the risk of insurance shortfalls. Working with a knowledgeable broker or agent can help uncover overlooked insurance gaps and ensure coverage closely aligns with the business’s current operations, assets and evolving risk landscape. Contact us today to find out more.

10 Ways to Manage Stress During the Summer

Date: July 30, 2025 Author: Rinehart Insurance

While summer often brings a welcome change of pace with warmer weather, longer days, vacation plans and more time outdoors, it can also introduce new stressors for many individuals. Whether balancing work responsibilities with family schedules, coping with the heat or dealing with travel logistics, summer can feel anything but relaxing.

The key is learning how to manage seasonal stress so it doesn’t manage you. This article provides practical tips for coping with stress during the summer.

Staying Cool Under Summer Pressure

Summer stress is real if you’re navigating vacation schedules, managing child care or just trying to stay productive in the heat. Here’s how to stay cool and manage stress effectively:

Stay hydrated and cool. Dehydration and heat can increase fatigue and irritability. It’s important to keep a water bottle nearby and dress in breathable fabrics. When possible, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, but plan accordingly if you have to be out in the sun for long periods of time.
Set boundaries with your time. Summer calendars can fill up quickly. As such, be intentional about what you commit to and don’t hesitate to say no to events or obligations that feel overwhelming.
Maintain a routine. A consistent schedule helps reduce stress, so stick to regular sleep, meals and work time. It’s equally important to remain flexible, so feel free to adapt your routine to include more outdoor or seasonal activities.
Create a comfortable work environment. Whether you’re working on-site or remotely, make your space summer-friendly. If possible, use fans, adjust lighting and take advantage of natural light to help boost your mood and productivity.

Take meaningful breaks. A short break can help you reset and refocus, but avoid defaulting to screen time during breaks. Instead, get some water, step outside, stretch or take a few deep breaths to reset your mind and body.
Use vacation time wisely. It’s important not to let your paid time off go unused. Even a short break or a staycation can help you recharge. When you’re off, try to disconnect and allow yourself to relax.
Plan ahead for family and travel logistics. If you’re managing kids on summer break or planning trips, get organized early. Clear communication with your team and family can help reduce last-minute confusion, tension and stress.
Reconnect with nature. Spending time outdoors, even just for a few minutes each day, can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity. For example, consider walking meetings, lunch in the park or weekend hikes to recharge.
Practice mindfulness or light exercise. Movement is medicine, so incorporate short mindfulness practices or light physical activity into your day. A 10-minute walk or a few minutes of deep breathing can significantly lower stress levels.
Limit alcohol and caffeine. Summer socializing often includes more drinks, but too much caffeine or alcohol can disrupt your sleep cycle and increase anxiety. Stay mindful of your intake and balance alcoholic beverages with plenty of water. Alcohol and caffeine can also dehydrate your body, so focus on ways to consume more water (through foods or drinks) throughout the day.

Overall, it’s important to understand that some stress is OK and expected. Stress is a natural reaction that you may feel, but taking some small steps to manage or reduce it can help you keep your cool during the summer.

Summary

Summer doesn’t have to be a source of stress. You can stay productive, protect your well-being and enjoy the season with a few intentional adjustments. No matter if you’re working through the heat or taking time off, these strategies can help you stay balanced and energized.

If you have concerns about your mental health or overall well-being, it’s important to seek help from a trained health care provider.