Navigating the Homeowners Insurance Marketplace in 2023, We Can Help

Date: March 29, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
homeowners insurance marketplace

Homeowners insurance continues to be one of the essential types of coverage acquired and maintained by Americans in 2023. However, while these policies may be integral components of homeowners’ insurance portfolios, being common should not be mistaken for uncomplicated. Prospective and current policyholders should remain apprised of recent economic patterns and relevant industry trends to avoid being blindsided by changes in their coverage or costs.

Heading into 2023, several significant conditions are affecting the homeowners insurance market. Inflation continues to have wide-reaching implications for the U.S. economy, and the insurance market is far from immune to these effects. As the cost of building materials used to repair homes and goods replacing destroyed belongings increase, so too must the cost of insurance. In addition, the increasing frequency of natural disasters has led to a recent surge in homeowners insurance claims, culminating in Hurricane Ian inflicting over $67 billion in insured damages last fall.

What to Expect in 2023

Factors that influenced the homeowners insurance marketplace in 2022 are not going to disappear this year. Most policyholders should not be surprised to see their premiums continue to increase, although certain influencers may become less impactful. For example, although construction labor and building material costs continue to affect homeowners insurance costs, recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that at least the latter’s increasing prices may be leveling off.

Severe weather events and natural disasters will likely remain significant threats in 2023. With that in mind, increasing insurance premiums, specifically in high-risk areas like southern states, should be expected. Fortunately, homeowners in some areas may enjoy some financial reprieve as government officials take action. For example, in December 2022, the state of Florida passed legislation designed to provide a safety net for insurance companies and stabilize the property insurance market.

5 Tips for Buying Home Insurance in 2023

Amid market trends and global factors mainly outside of the average policyholder’s control, there are still various ways to optimize homeowners insurance coverage and either reduce premiums or minimize increases:

  1. Bundling policies—By combining multiple components of their insurance portfolio under the same broker, such as home, auto and life, homeowners may be privy to discounts as high as 20-25%. Furthermore, bundling coverage can make it easier for policyholders to manage their insurance portfolios and decrease the likelihood of an insurer dropping them in response to an incident.
  2. Improving homes—Upgrading property can help secure lower homeowners insurance prices. Potential improvements may include installing new plumbing or storm shutters, upgrading roofs and adding security or fire protection systems.
  3. Reconsidering home features—Certain additions to your property, such as swimming pools and trampolines, may generate additional risks and exposures. Insurance companies generally must consider such conditions and raise premiums accordingly.
  4. Exploring discounts—Homeowners who have not filed a claim against their policies for an extended period (generally at least three-to-five years) may receive a discount. Even aspects of a homeowner’s life not directly related to their home could earn them lower premiums. For example, many insurance companies may offer discounts for members of the military or certain professions, such as law enforcement officers, firefighters and teachers.
  5. Reassessing coverage—Some homeowners may be able to find lower rates by shopping around for multiple quotes. Altering the details of coverage may also help to keep premiums from increasing. However, policyholders should proceed with caution when adjusting their insurance. For example, increasing deductibles may lower premiums but also mean higher out-of-pocket costs before a policy will render aid.

For most Americans, homeownership is a dream come true. However, like any significant financial investment, a home must be adequately protected by comprehensive insurance. In 2023, many factors must be accounted for while optimizing homeowners insurance policies.

For More Information

Maintaining sufficient coverage while controlling costs can be a difficult task. With that in mind, it’s essential for homeowners to work with a knowledgeable and experienced insurance agent. For more information or help navigating the homeowners insurance marketplace, contact Rinehart, Walters & Danner Insurance Agency today.

5 Tips For How To Navigate The Auto Insurance Marketplace In 2023

Date: March 22, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
auto insurance marketplace

Auto rates increased an average of 9% for drivers in 2022, with 1 in 5 US drivers reporting multiple auto rate increases over the 12-month period, according to Insurify. Unfortunately for drivers and auto insurance consumers, these rate increases are expected to continue in 2023. More accidents, rising medical and litigation costs, more frequent and severe natural disasters and inflation-driven auto repair costs are all expected to contribute to continued auto rate increases in 2023. In fact, US drivers are expected to spend on average $1,895 more in 2023 for the same coverage they had at the end of 2021, said Insurify.

As drivers struggle to find affordable coverage, having an experienced insurance agent on their side will be crucial to help navigate the rapidly changing marketplace. Continue reading for guidance on using an agent to navigate the auto insurance marketplace.

Tips for Auto Insurance Buyers in 2023

Although many of the factors contributing to rising auto rates are out of your control, there are several things you can try to help reduce the cost of your premium increases. Consider the following tips to help keep your auto rates down:

  • Bundle your home and auto insurance. By purchasing multiple insurance policies from the same insurer, you could save up to 25% on your auto premiums. Ask your insurance agent to help you find eligible bundling discounts.
  • Find the right vehicle for your budget. Higher-value vehicles are typically more expensive to repair or replace, leading to higher insurance costs. While several factors may affect your auto premiums, purchasing a vehicle with a lower MSRP could help you find less expensive coverage. Before buying a new-to-you vehicle, ask your insurance agent how much you can expect to pay for auto coverage.
  • Increase your deductible. Raising your insurance deductible is one way to offset rising premium costs, but keep in mind a higher deductible will increase the amount you have to pay out of pocket after an accident. Consult your insurance agent to find out if a higher deductible plan is right for you.
  • Consider a low-mileage plan. Driving fewer than 5,000 miles a year might make you eligible for a low-mileage auto insurance policy. These policies can lower your auto rates. Report your actual mileage to your insurance agent to see if this type of plan could be right for you.
  • Ask your agent to help you find the right policy. Your insurance agent can help you shop around and compare multiple auto insurance quotes to find the right policy for your needs and budget. If you have a good driving record, less expensive insurance options could be available with a new insurance carrier.

We’re Here to Help

As you navigate the auto insurance market in 2023, it’s important to remember you’re not alone. Your insurance agent can help you search for eligible discounts and bring your auto policy into alignment with your coverage needs. Contact Rinehart, Walters & Danner Insurance Agency today to learn how we can help you navigate the challenging auto insurance marketplace.

Want to learn more about Auto Insurance – click here.

8 Ways To Identify and Avoid Phone Scams

Date: March 15, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
avoid phone scams

avoid phone scamsEvery year, people report fraud, identity theft and bad business practices to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and law enforcement partners. According to FTC data, more than 2.8 million people reported fraud in 2021, and 1 in 4 said they also lost money. The median loss in scams that start with a call is $1,200, higher than any other contact method.

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 how to avoid 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.

Please share with others to help them avoid phone scams also. 

Tips to Avoid Trouble When Buying Used Vehicles

Date: March 1, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance

Buying Used Vehicles - Rinehart Insurance

Buying used vehicles can be a great way to save a little money. However, make sure to be cautious when purchasing a used vehicle. To avoid purchasing a car with hidden problems, consider the below tips when shopping.

What to look for

  • Excessive wear and tear in the interior, regardless of what the odometer says, is a clue that the car has seen some miles. Look for: Break pedal pad worn through the metal beneath – Driver’s seat outer edge is worn through – Water leaking directly under the floor mats
  • Damp, musty odors are indications of leaks in the windshield, weather stripping or heater core
  • Cars that ride lower in the front as compared to the back indicate worn springs
  • Vehicles that bounce when pushed on indicates worn shocks and struts
  • Tires with worn outer edges from the front end represent the need for an alignment
  • Clanking noises when the vehicle is in gear points towards a problem with the drive shaft universal joints
  • Repainted body panels, Check this by looking at the colors of adjoining panels to see if they match the front fender
  • Motor oil that is not full indicates that the engine may be leaking or burning oil
  • Knocking and ticking sounds that increase as the engine speed increases represent major problems and costly repairs
  • Transmission fluid that is black or brown may indicate internal damage
  • Banging, grinding or squeaking noises indicates a damaged or broken transmission mount

Be Wary of Mileage Tampering

Do not be fooled by the mileage on the odometer. To see if the instruments have been tampered with, look for fingerprints or scratches inside the plastic covering. Mileage numbers that don’t line up properly on the odometer offer another fraud clue. This may be a crude attempt at getting you to buy a vehicle that has far more miles (and problems) than what the low mileage would suggest.

Whether new or used, purchasing a vehicle is an investment. Make sure yours is properly covered by calling our office today to do a policy review.

The Growing Need for Personal Cyber Coverage

Date: February 22, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
personal cyber coverage

personal cyber coverageToday’s society has grown increasingly digital in nature, with many individuals leveraging smart devices within their daily lives. Although this technology can offer various benefits, it can also make individuals more susceptible to cybercrime. Such incidents have steadily become more common and costly. In fact, the FBI reported receiving more than 800,000 complaints regarding cybercrimes in the past year, totaling $4.2 billion in overall expenses.

These findings emphasize how critical it is for individuals to safeguard themselves and their families from cyber events. That’s where personal cyber insurance can help. Typically offered as an endorsement to a homeowners policy, this form of coverage can provide financial protection for losses resulting from a range of cyber incidents—including fraud, identity theft and data breaches. Keep reading to learn more about the growing need for this coverage and the key types of personal cyber insurance available.

The Growing Need for Personal Cyber Coverage

Technology has continued to advance in the past decade, playing a larger role in how individuals live, work, and entertain. A variety of online platforms have given individuals the ability to stream content, communicate with others, shop for goods and make electronic payments at the click of a button. Additionally, smart devices have allowed individuals to upgrade a number of household appliances (e.g., thermostats, fridges, doorbells and security systems). Altogether, this technology has contributed to the growing adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT), which refers to any devices that connect or send information to the internet. Looking ahead, insurance experts anticipate that the average household will possess as many as 50 IoT-capable gadgets by 2023.

While these devices certainly offer several advantages, increased technology utilization also comes with greater cyber vulnerabilities. As technology advances, so do the tactics of cybercriminals—resulting in more frequent and severe cyber events. Here are some of the most common cyber incident scenarios that individuals and their families may encounter:

  • Bank fraud—This form of fraud entails a cybercriminal gaining unauthorized access to an individual’s electronic bank credentials, allowing them to transfer and steal funds from the individual’s account. According to a recent report from NortonLifeLock, cybercriminals steal over $170 billion each year via bank fraud.
  • Identity theft—Such theft refers to a cybercriminal accessing an individual’s personal information (e.g., Social Security number or credit card number) and using it to commit fraud or other crimes under the individual’s name. The Federal Trade Commission confirmed that nearly 1.4 million complaints related to identity theft were filed last year, up 113% from the previous year.
  • Data loss—In the event that an individual’s device gets infected with a virus or other malicious software (also called malware), they face the risk of losing any valuable data stored on that device. Viruses and malware can come from numerous avenues, including harmful websites, dangerous email attachments or infected USB flash drives—thus making data loss a major threat.
  • Extortion—Ransomware incidents have contributed to a substantial rise in cyber extortion over the last few years. These incidents stem from a cybercriminal using malware to compromise an individual’s device (and any data stored on it) and demanding a ransom payment in exchange for restoration. In some cases, the cybercriminal may even threaten to publicly share the individual’s data if they don’t receive payment. According to cybersecurity experts, ransomware incidents have increased 500% since 2018, with the average ransom payment totaling over $300,000.
  • Cyberbullying—While social media platforms allow individuals to connect with others, these platforms can also, unfortunately, be used for negative purposes, such as cyberbullying. This type of bullying includes refers to harassment, threats or other intimidating language that occurs via electronic means. Although anyone can be a victim of cyberbullying, kids and teenagers are particularly vulnerable. The latest data from Pew Research revealed that 59% of teens have experienced cyberbullying.

Considering these risks, it’s clear that individuals can’t afford to ignore cybercrime. In addition to implementing effective cybersecurity practices (e.g., using trusted devices, browsing secure websites, conducting software updates, backing up data, creating unique passwords and knowing how to identify potential scams), having adequate insurance in place is crucial. By investing in personal cyber coverage, individuals can properly protect themselves and their families amid cyber-related losses.

Types of Personal Cyber Coverage

Personal cyber insurance varies between insurers. However, there are a number of key coverage offerings available:

  • Online fraud coverage—This coverage can offer reimbursement for financial losses that may result from the various types of online fraud, such as phishing scams, identity theft or unauthorized banking.
  • Online shopping coverage—Such coverage can help pay for the cost of any goods that were purchased online but arrived damaged upon delivery or didn’t get delivered whatsoever.
  • Identity recovery coverage—This coverage can provide reimbursement for the expenses associated with recovering from an identity theft incident (e.g., rectifying records with banks or other authorities, hiring a consultant to assist with credit restoration and taking unpaid time off from work to recover from the incident).
  • Data restoration coverage—Such coverage can help compensate the cost of having an IT specialist recover a device and restore any data stored on it if the device gets infected with a virus or malware.
  • Data breach coverage—This coverage can offer reimbursement for the necessary notification and recovery services in the event that private, nonbusiness data entrusted to the policyholder becomes lost, stolen or published.
  • Cyber extortion coverage—Such coverage can help pay for the expenses associated with responding to a ransomware event (e.g., consulting an IT specialist to mitigate the extortion attempt and restoring compromised devices or data).
  • Cyberbullying coverage—This coverage can provide reimbursement for the costs that come with recovering from a cyberbullying incident resulting in unlawful harassment or defamation of character. These costs may include psychological counseling services, legal advice, temporary relocation expenses and social media monitoring software. This coverage can also offer protection if an individual or their child faces engages in cyberbullying and faces subsequent legal action from the victim.

Because personal cyber insurance is still a relatively new type of coverage, it is usually only available as an add-on to an existing homeowners policy. Further, certain insurers only provide this coverage as an endorsement for high-value homeowners policies. Yet, some insurers may offer standalone personal cyber coverage. Moving forward, insurance experts expect the personal cyber coverage market to continue growing, allowing for more widely available policy options. In any case, individuals should consult trusted insurance professionals to discuss their specific coverage capabilities.

For further risk management resources and insurance solutions, contact us today.

6 Ways For Your Small Business To Cut Costs

Date: February 15, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
cutting costs

cutting costsEmployers of all sizes are currently searching for ways to reduce expenses and save money in response to the current economic downturn and ongoing labor challenges. Instead of cutting costs randomly or conducting unnecessary layoffs, successful organizations tend to optimize their resources by identifying areas where they can reduce expenses without compromising productivity or future growth. While cutting costs is essential for any organization, it’s especially important for small businesses since they tend to have fewer resources than larger employers.

This article outlines six tips to help small businesses effectively cut costs.

1.       Invest in New Technology

Adopting new technology can bolster efficiency and create savings for small businesses. Investing in technology can help reduce costs by streamlining operations and allowing small businesses to operate more efficiently. Technology enables employers to improve or even automate manual and error-prone tasks. Examples of cost-saving technology include the following:

  • Customer relationship management software
  • HR management or information systems
  • Digital communication
  • Virtual recruiting services
  • Low-code solutions
  • Artificial intelligence
  • People analytics technology
  • Learning and development software

Additionally, many small businesses are turning to open-source software alternatives as a cost-effective alternative to brand-name software applications.

2.       Strengthen Employee Retention

Prioritizing employee retention can be one of the most effective cost-cutting strategies for small businesses. Replacing workers is often extremely expensive. Employee turnover not only increases an organzation’s recruiting and training costs but also usually results in decreased productivity, lost proficiency and reduced profits.

Small businesses can strengthen employee retention with the following strategies:

  • Provide opportunities for career development and advancement.
  • Offer benefits to meet workers’ evolving needs.
  • Improve employee engagement by encouraging employee feedback, providing flexibility and strengthening workplace efficiency.
  • Bolster workplace culture through public recognition and reward programs.
  • Be transparent when communicating with employees to help them understand important decisions and establish opportunities for two-way feedback.

3.       Manage Health Care Costs

It’s not a secret that employer health care costs are rising. Finding cost-effective solutions is vital for small businesses to maintain affordable benefits and reduce costs. Solutions may include reevaluating plan designs and offerings, directing employees to cost-effective services and improving employee health care literacy. Employers can leverage their relationship with their insurance brokers to explore cost-saving solutions, like obtaining details on organizational health care spending and educating employees on shopping for health care services. By adopting several cost-cutting strategies, small businesses can better manage health care costs without sacrificing employees’ needs.

4.       Embrace Outsourcing

While performing tasks in-house can often be cost-effective, there are instances when outsourcing nonessential tasks can be more economical. Manual, time-consuming tasks—such as payroll and benefits administration—may be better suited for outsourcing for some organizations. Outsourcing these kinds of tasks can enable employees to focus on more important responsibilities that have a greater and more direct impact on a small business’s bottom line and future growth.

5.       Adopt Flexible Work Arrangements

The expense of having a physical workspace can add up. Each month, employers must pay rent, utilities, cleaning costs and other expenses. While these expenses are often unavoidable, some small businesses are transitioning to home-based businesses or remote and hybrid work arrangements to cut costs. These solutions may not be suitable for all industries or job positions, but small businesses of all kinds can explore ways to offer flexible scheduling and improve benefits, like enhanced leave and paid time off, to lower overhead expenses. If converting to a home-based business or going remote isn’t possible, employers can consider downsizing their facilities to reduce their rent and utility bills. Small businesses can also explore other alternatives, such as co-working arrangements and renegotiating their leases, to reduce rent.

6.       Review Expenses

Poor cash flow can strain and even jeopardize an organization’s longevity. Reviewing expenses regularly can be an effective way to reduce and eliminate unnecessary costs. As part of the review process, employers can negotiate with providers, suppliers and vendors, such as banks and landlords, to potentially defer payments, reduce fees, improve rates and receive additional services to help during difficult times. By establishing and fostering relationships with these individuals and entities, organizations can cultivate allies and acquire strategic partners, which can pay dividends by creating cost-savings solutions and opportunities.

Summary

Effective strategies for cutting costs will likely vary for each small business. However, by planning properly and understanding effective cost-cutting approaches, small businesses can identify and reduce the costs that will have the most impact on their organizations. This can help small businesses bolster their financial stability, optimize their resources and position themselves for future growth.

For more workplace resources, contact Rinehart, Walters & Danner Insurance Agency today.

6 Tips For Better Brain Health

Date: February 8, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
brain health

brain healthA brief lapse in memory, such as misplacing your wallet or forgetting a birthday, is often associated with being overly busy or having an excessive amount of stress. In fact, memory loss is a common part of aging. What can be problematic is when the episodes of forgetfulness increase and intensify into a more severe problem, such as mild cognitive impairment or even Alzheimer’s disease.

This is why taking care of your brain health is essential. There are small daily efforts you can make to slow memory decline. Read on for six tips about taking care of your brain health.

1) Exercise Daily

Physically active people are less likely to experience a decline in their mental function, according to the Mayo Clinic. The increased blood flow to the brain during exercise aids the natural brain connections that occur during aging. A simple routine of 30 minutes of physical activity daily can help boost your brain health. Try choosing an activity that will increase your heart rate, such as hiking, playing tennis or biking.

2) Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet not only helps physical health but cognitive functions as well. Try to incorporate foods high in monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. These foods can include salmon, nuts and avocados, for example. It’s also important to avoid foods high in trans and saturated fats, such as processed foods and fatty cuts of beef.

3) Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Sleep plays a vital role in overall health, including brain health. To get a good night’s sleep, you should aim for seven to eight consecutive hours of rest per night. This gives the brain a chance to detoxify and relax after each day, which is critical for a healthy brain and memory.

A lack of sleep can be a detriment to your brain health. If you’re having trouble sleeping, it can be helpful to reach out to your doctor. 

4) Participate in Social Activities

Regular social interactions can help decrease memory loss. This can especially be important if you live alone or work remotely. A simple way to incorporate social interaction into your daily life is to connect with loved ones such as family and friends. If you have time in your evenings, this could be a good opportunity to try a new hobby or class within your community.

5) Activate Your Brain

The more mentally stimulated you are, the better your brain’s overall function will be. To engage in mental stimulation, you can participate in activities such as reading, brain games, painting and puzzles. If you’re looking for where to start with brain-stimulating exercises, reach out to your doctor for recommended resources.

6) Receive Regular Check-ups

Certain health factors, such as artery and vein health, are critical to brain health and function. By going to regular check-ups, you’re able to get your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol checked. Your doctor can tell you if your these and other numbers are in a healthy range. If not, they can provide care to help you get your numbers in a healthy range.

Conclusion

Brain health significantly impacts your memory and cognitive function. Practicing these six habits can positively impact your brain’s health. If you have further questions about how to better the health of your brain, reach out to your doctor for more information.

Important Chimney Maintenance Tips You need To Know

Date: February 1, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
chimney maintenance

chimney maintenanceIn spite of the ambiance and relaxation that a fireplace provides, there are also inherent fire dangers. To combat the risk of fire or inhalation of dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) gas, it is important for you to make chimney maintenance part of your home maintenance plan. Follow these tips to keep your chimney in good shape and prevent fire hazards.

General Chimney Maintenance Tips

Both metal and masonry chimneys require maintenance so that smoke and flue gases are ventilated properly. At the very least, you should have your chimney inspected annually before each heating season. In addition:

  • Have your chimney cleaned on a regular basis to reduce creosote buildup.
  • Make sure your masonry chimney has a flue liner in place to reduce the possibility that the masonry could absorb creosote.
  • Replace damaged liners, as they will allow creosote to accumulate and heat to escape.
  • When hiring someone to reline your chimney, only allow the contractor to use a product that has been tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Specific Chimney Maintenance Tips

There are two types of chimneys that require specific maintenance to limit the risks in your home.

  1. Fireplace inserts—Make sure the vent is connected to the flue of the chimney.
  2. Factory-built metal chimneys—Do not use natural gas, fuel oil vents, well casing, stovepipe or other material in the chimney, as they cannot withstand the heat in the wood burner.

Keep These Precautions in Mind

Do not vent more than one heater or appliance into a single flue, as major complications can arise. If one fuel-burning appliance is connected to a flue and then you attach another appliance, such as a water heater, you are running the risk of various problems. Such problems include heavy creosote accumulation, deterioration of the flue or CO gas drifting into your home.

For additional home maintenance guidance and homeowners insurance solutions, contact us today.

 

 

The Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring Comedy Benefit Show Is Next Saturday!

Date: January 25, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring

Mid-Ohio Youth MentoringMid-Ohio Youth Mentoring, formerly known as Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Central Ohio, is a well known local program. They have mentored children, ages 5 through 16, in communities across Mid-Ohio for the last 25 years.

Visiting their website you can see their mission

“Our mission is to provide youth in our community with a mentor that supports, encourages, and provides opportunities, that will help them achieve success in life.” 

In order to make their mission successful, they need donations.

One popular event they hold annually is the Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring Comedy Benefit Show. This year’s show is Saturday February 4th at 6pm. To get your seat, see more details, and purchase your tickets, visit their website: www.midohiyouthmentoring.com

Help us support them by spreading the word. 

A COMEDY BENEFIT SHOW!

Featuring the Comedic Stylings of: Larry Reeb

Known as Uncle Larry, Larry Reeb is the wise-cracking black sheep, politically incorrect relative everyone knows. Reeb is a strong, distinct, classic character, with sarcastic attitude and a sardonic wit. He conveys his concepts with rapid fire one liners. “It’s a sick world and I’m a happy guy”, Reeb proudly announces after stating his particularly twisted observations. Whether he’s headlining comedy clubs, colleges or conventions, his wit is universally appealing. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Larry has been seen on Showtime, HBO, FOX, A&E, VH1, MTV, PBS, WGN and others.  

Also performing: Mark Shalifous

Saturday, February 4th Doors open 6 pm At the Liederkranz (come early, open seating only, no reserved seating available)

What: Adult comedic humor (guaranteed laughs!!)

When: Saturday, February 4th, 2023 – Doors open at 6pm, show starts around 7pm

Where: The Liederkranz: 1212 Silver Lane, Mansfield OH 44906

Why: Raise funds to support our mentoring programs in your community

** Tickets will be available for purchase at the door, until sold out. ** 

Please help us provide the children of our community with positive adult role models by purchasing this ticket and attending the show.

The kids thank you for your support!!

Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring:  ~ every child deserves a mentor

5 Ways To Deal With Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

Date: January 18, 2023 Author: Rinehart Insurance
Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

Unhealthy Coping MechanismsWhen times get tough, it can be instinct to look for a coping mechanism. Coping mechanisms can help people feel like they’re escaping reality by relieving stress or being able to distract their minds. While this is a normal feeling, it becomes a problem when one turns to unhealthy coping mechanisms, which can be harmful in the long run.

This article explores ways to turn unhealthy coping mechanisms into healthier alternatives.

Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

There are typically four main reasons people turn to unhealthy or destructive behaviors: mental health, stress, isolation and neurobiology. Here are some of the most common unhealthy coping mechanisms:

  • Oversleeping—Sleep is a common way that people try to escape. While sleep is good for your overall health, too much sleep can inhibit the amount of movement your body needs daily.
  • Excessive drug or alcohol use—Substance misuse can be a dangerous coping mechanism as it can have serious long-term side effects such as health complications, addiction and death.
  • Over- or under-eating—Over- or under-eating outside of the recommended guidance can cause health issues. Try to stay within the recommended daily intake guidance.
  • Impulsive retail spending—Excessive shopping can lead to financial problems. Making small purchases over time can also lead to hoarding or family problems.

Alternatives to Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

It’s normal to have feelings of wanting to escape from reality due to stress or anxiety. Healthy coping mechanisms can help address stress and anxieties in a positive way—and also develop into long-lasting habits.

Check out these healthier alternatives for coping with stress or other unpleasant emotions:

  1. Create task lists. Unhealthy coping mechanisms can prevent you from reaching your short- and long-term goals. Making a task list of personal goals can help you achieve the things you want and elevate your mood by physically seeing your accomplishments when they’re checked off the list.
  2. Talk about stress. Find someone willing to listen to you, such as a close friend, family member or mental health professional. Putting your feelings into words can help alleviate stress and feelings.
  3. Address negative feelings. Negativity is a normal part of life. Trying to avoid it is called avoidance behavior, which can result in reaching for unhealthy coping mechanisms.
  4. Learn your triggers. Knowing what you negatively respond to can help help you keep track of and be aware of how you react.
  5. Pick up a new hobby. For example, outlets such as painting or picking up running can be therapeutic. Incorporate a frequent time and space to practice your new hobby.

Practice Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Having negative or overwhelming emotions is normal.   It’s important to consider using healthy coping mechanisms to help deal with stress. If you have an ongoing emotional problem, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.