Deck the Halls with Coverage: Holiday Insurance Tips for Home and Auto

 The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and festive cheer. But amidst the merrymaking, it’s important not to forget about protecting your home and car. The holidays can bring unique risks, so having the right insurance coverage can give you peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for anything.

Festive Home Hazards:

Christmas tree with lots of presents under it

• Holiday decorations: While twinkling lights and festive ornaments add to the holiday spirit, they can also pose fire hazards. Make sure you’re using certified decorations and taking precautions like keeping flammable materials away from heat sources.
• Increased guest traffic: More visitors mean more activity in your home, which can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Consider liability insurance to protect yourself if someone gets hurt on your property.
• Travel and empty homes: If you’re traveling for the holidays, your home will be unoccupied for longer periods. Be sure to take precautions like using timers for lights and notifying trusted neighbors about your absence. Also, consider adding vacant home coverage to your insurance policy.
• Holiday cooking: Festive meals often involve hot appliances and open flames. Be extra careful when cooking and keep an eye on the kitchen to prevent accidents.

Safeguarding Your Holiday Wheels:

car driving in the snow

• Winter weather: The holidays often coincide with harsh winter weather conditions, which can lead to increased road accidents. Make sure your car is well-maintained and equipped with winter tires. Consider adding comprehensive coverage to your auto insurance policy to protect against weather-related damage.
• Holiday shopping: Crowded parking lots and distracted drivers can make holiday shopping a stressful experience on the road. Be patient, practice safe driving habits, and maintain awareness of your surroundings.
• Increased travel: Holiday travel can significantly increase your car’s mileage and expose it to new risks. Consider adding roadside assistance to your insurance policy for added peace of mind on the road.
• Gift-filled vehicles: Leaving gifts visible in your car can attract thieves. Avoid leaving valuables in your car, especially overnight or in unattended areas.

Additional Tips:

• Review your current coverage: Make sure you have enough coverage to meet your needs, especially if you’ve added any new valuables or increased your holiday travel plans.
• Bundle your policies: Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling your home and auto insurance.
• Update your agent: Inform your insurance agent about any changes in your circumstances, such as holiday travel plans or new home improvements.
• Document your belongings: Take photos or videos of your valuables to help with claims if anything happens.
• Install a security system: Installing a security system in your home can deter burglars and offer additional protection.

By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy a safe and secure holiday season without worrying about the unexpected. Remember, having the right insurance coverage can protect your home, car, and finances in the event of a holiday mishap.

Happy holidays from Insure local !