When you trailer your boat to a lake like Lake Livingston, Lake Rayburn, or Toledo Bend Reservoir, there's only one thing between you and the water — a boat ramp! I know you're eager to go, but be patient — you need to practice the art of boat launching first.

Some people make boat launching look easy. But it's a touchy, tricky business, especially for new boaters. If you've struggled in the past, don't give up in frustration. Practice makes progress! And with a little more experience, you'll soon be the Captain Jack Sparrow of the boat launch.

Here are eight tips for getting your boat back to its natural habitat!

1. Practice, practice, practice. With experience comes confidence. Instead of getting this experience at a crowded boat ramp with an overabundance of impatient, opinionated spectators, consider going to an empty parking lot—you can practice by backing the trailer into a parking space.
2. Nonverbal communication is key. Sometimes the sounds of engines, stereos and other noises drown out verbal directions from your co-captain. Avoid this frustration by agreeing on a few common hand signals for "stop," "left," "right," "start over" and "perfect."
3. Slow and steady's the way to go. Take a deep breath and disregard the pressure to move fast. This will only lead to mistakes. Take it slow—there isn't a time limit—and control the majority of vehicle movement with your brake pedal.
4. More brake, less gas. Backing down a ramp requires only a little gas. Instead, focus on using your brakes and checking your mirrors. For optimum maneuverability, make adjustments with your brake applied—hold the brake, turn the wheel to where you want it and then release.
5. Consider 8-4 instead of 10-2. Backing up with your hands in the traditional 10-2 position is OK, but many prefer switching to 8-4 instead. With hands at the bottom of the wheel, you push in the direction that the trailer moves, which can feel more natural.
6. Get used to different trailer sizes. Recognize that not all trailers and boats behave the same when being towed. Generally, a longer boat trailer is easier to back up and harder in forward turns; a shorter boat trailer is the opposite.
7. Try correcting a jackknife before restarting. While holding the brakes, turn your steering wheel all the way in the opposite direction of the jackknife. Then pull forward slowly—if effective, your tow vehicle and trailer will realign.
8. Don't forget the guide poles. Placing guide poles on your trailer will increase visibility, making it easier to maneuver. Try using them and see if they give you the confidence of a boat-launching pro!

Now that you've brushed up on boat launching, jump into another refresher with our blog about boat trailering.

Content provided by www.foremost.com

One of my favorite water sports in Texas in the summer is tubing. For someone who isn't athletically inclined, it's fairly easy and doesn't require much work. I simply make sure I'm secure on the tube, hold on tight, then feel the rush of adrenaline as I ride the waves! It's exciting and unpredictable because I never know if I'll stay on my tube or fall off into the water (I usually end up falling in), and it forces me to brush up on my swimming skills. It's even more fun if I'm with a partner and we're in competition to see who can hold on the longest!

Usually when I'm tubing, I'm never concerned about safety because I'm with experienced boaters and other people who have been tubing for quite some time. However, there's no such thing as being too safe.

If you're a first-time rider or just need a refresher, keep these safety tips in mind the next time you are getting ready to jump on a tube!

• Get familiar with your equipment. Make sure you know the size and weight your tubing equipment can carry. It is also important to know if the manufacturer has any recommendations for age limits, the number of riders, or safe towing speeds.
• Make sure the tow line is secure. Always double-check the tow line to confirm it is securely tightened before you take off. If you see any signs of wear and tear on the rope, it needs to be replaced. Don't risk it!
• Designate a spotter. Since the boat driver is focusing on the water ahead, choose another passenger who can watch the rider and communicate with the driver. The spotter will look out for accidents and let the driver know when someone falls off the tube. It is also a good idea for the spotter and rider to go over hand signals for speeding up, slowing down, and stopping.
• Consult the tube rider before you start. The driver and rider should have a chat beforehand so there aren't any surprises on the water. The rider should let the driver know what their limits are and how fast they are comfortable going. If there is more than one person riding, they should know how to position themselves on the tube so their weight is distributed evenly. This will help the ride go a lot smoother!
• Be cautious around wakes. The driver should always slow the boat down when crossing a wake. Driving through wakes at high speeds can be fun and bouncy, but it puts the rider at risk for serious injuries, especially if they are laying on their stomach.
• Wear proper safety gear. Regardless of the rider's age and swim level, they need to wear a life jacket. Make sure it's securely fastened so there's no chance it will slip off if they fall into the water.
• Know your surroundings. During the busy summer months, the water will most likely be packed with other boats. Before you begin tubing, the driver should find an area with open water you can claim for yourself. The entire experience will be a lot safer and more fun for all involved!

​
Lastly, enjoy the thrills and have fun! Tubing is a great family activity because it can be appropriate for all ages, and just as fun as water skiing or wakeboarding. If you've never gone before, I hope your mind is at ease and you feel prepared for what's to come. Stay safe out there!

 Content provided by Foremost.com

*https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/water-tubing-tips-boat-safety-tips-for-water-sports-tubing

As spring rolls in, many of us welcome the warmer temperatures and blooming flowers. However, this season also brings the potential for severe storms. To ensure safety and preparedness, it's essential to stay weather aware during spring storm season.

First, keep an eye on the weather forecasts. Utilize reliable sources, such as local news stations or weather apps, to receive updates on potential storm warnings. Understanding the different types of alerts—such as watches, warnings, and advisories—can equip you with the knowledge to act swiftly if conditions worsen.

Second, consider creating an emergency plan for your family. Identify safe locations in your home, such as a basement or an interior room away from windows, and plan how to reach them during a storm. Familiarize everyone in your household with the plan and conduct practice drills, particularly if you have children.

Also, be prepared with an emergency kit stocked with flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water, and a first-aid kit. Having these items ready can make a significant difference in the case of power outages or if you find yourself stuck indoors.

Last, stay connected. If severe weather threatens your area, don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or neighbors, especially those who may need assistance. Sharing information and checking in on one another can help create a supportive community during challenging times.

By staying informed, preparing in advance, and looking out for each other, we can navigate the spring storm season safely. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s too easy to let distractions invade our time behind the wheel. Distracted driving is a growing concern that poses a significant risk not only to the driver but also to passengers and others on the road. As technology becomes more embedded in our daily lives, understanding the dangers and consequences of distracted driving is more important than ever.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention from driving. This includes using your phone to text or call, eating and drinking, adjusting the radio, or even having a conversation with passengers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 390,000 injuries occur each year due to accidents involving texting while driving.

Why It Matters

The consequences of distracted driving can be severe. In 2021 alone, nearly 3,500 lives were lost due to accidents caused by distractions. A moment of inattention can lead to devastating outcomes, affecting not just the distracted driver but also innocent people on the road.

Tips to Stay Focused

1. **Put Your Phone Away: ** If possible, silence your phone and store it out of reach. Use apps that block notifications while driving to minimize temptation.

2. **Plan Ahead: ** Before getting on the road, set your GPS, adjust your music, and ensure everything you need for your trip is within reach.

3. **Limit Passenger Distractions: ** Encourage passengers to keep conversations light and avoid engaging in activities that could distract you while driving.

4. **Stay Calm: ** If you 're feeling stressed or anxious, take a moment to breathe and focus on the road. Pull over safely if you need to regroup.

5. **Educate Others: ** Share knowledge about the dangers of distracted driving with friends and family. Raising awareness can help create a culture of safer driving practices.

Distracted driving is a preventable hazard that demands our attention. By staying focused behind the wheel, we can protect ourselves and others on the road. Let’s commit to safer driving habits and help reduce the alarming statistics around distracted driving. Remember, when you operate a motor vehicle, nothing should divert your attention from the road ahead. Safe travels!

You probably don't want to go camping in a camper infested with mice.
They can cause all kinds of trouble, including damaging your furniture or belongings, chewing wires or even getting into your food! Not to mention, they can carry parasites and diseases too. But how you do keep them out?
This article will provide some suggestions.
How to mouse proof a camper.
Before trying to mouse proof your camper, it's important to know how they get in in the first place.
Here are a few places a mouse could squeeze through to nest in your RV:

• Holes in the floors
• Cracks in the doors
• Cracks in the walls
• Gaps around wires and plumbing

Mice can squeeze through almost any small opening.
Mice are said to have flexible rib cages which allow them to flatten themselves out and fit through small spaces. Typically, if their head can fit through a space, the rest of their body likely can too. Knowing where those openings are in your camper is key to keeping mice out.
Here are some strategies you can use to keep mice out of your camper:

​Close up any access points.

You'll have to examine your entire camper very carefully, both inside and out.
When you find access points, you can close them up with:

• Steel wool
• Spray foam
• Mesh screens

 
Keep your food put away.

This one might be a given, but you should never leave food out if you want to keep mice away.

If you're in your active camping season, it may be too much work to keep taking 100% of your food out every time you leave your camper. But removing anything that you can’t reseal is a good idea.
And sweeping up crumbs off the floor can go a long way.

Use mice deterrents

Mice deterrents are solutions with smells that mice don't like. Some options include:

• Mothballs
• Peppermint oil
• Fabric softener sheets
• Professionally made products

Professionally made products may work best, but consider doing in-depth research on multiple solutions to determine which one(s) you want to try.
 
Keep it light and bright.

Mice are nocturnal, meaning they enjoy the dark.

You can consider using small nightlights in your RV, to make it less attractive to them. You can also consider having bright lights on the outside of your RV, so they never want to come near in the first place.

Now you know how to keep mice out of campers (or at least how to try), but what if they're already in?

How to get rid of mice in a camper.
Some options include:

• Mouse traps
• Rat poison
• Glue traps
• A professional exterminator

These methods, like many others, each have pros and cons.
For example, some of the ones listed above can be cruel and even fatal for mice. We recommend using humane mouse traps or calling in a professional exterminator whenever possible.
And of course, you should always do your own in-depth research to decide which one you want to use.

Springtime is almost here! The weather is beautiful, the water is inviting, and your boat is looking better now than when you first laid eyes on it. The only thing that would make your marine beauty even better is a gorgeous body of water underneath it. But not so fast…

Before you take your watercraft out on the water, complete the actions on this de-winterizing checklist-created for you by Foremost® Insurance.*

1. Check engine and fluid levels.
   To keep your boat running smoothly, remember to check engine and fluid levels. This includes engine oil, oil filters, power steering, coolant, and transmission fluid. If you didn't change your engine oil, oil filter, and drive lubricants before winter, you can do this now. For everything else, check for any leaks and repair the source first. Once this is addressed, refill the fluids.
2. Inspect your battery.
   If your vessel has been idle for a long period of time, it's likely the battery is dead and will need to be recharged. Additionally, the water in the battery can freeze in the winter. When this happens, the water can expand and cause cracks in the battery creating irreversible damage. If there are no issues here, ensure that your battery is filled with the proper amount of water. Be certain to use distilled water and not tap water, which can diminish performance. Next, check for any corrosion and clean the battery with a mix of baking soda/distilled water. If you discover your battery is damaged beyond repair, replace it.
3. Examine the boat's exterior.
   When checking the exterior of your seagoing machine, look closely for any cracks and holes. Check all around the hull and underneath it. If you notice any damage, repair them immediately. Always remember: "boats don't sink because of water around them, boats sink because of water that gets into them."
4. Check the belts.
   Lack of use during winter can cause belts to crack and break. This happens because of the stress and tension placed on the belts. If any belts are cracked, replace them. You will also need to replace your belt if it's loose or if you notice black soot around the pulley.
5. Examine fuel lines.
   The cold winter weather can cause damage to your watercraft's fuel line. Damage to your fuel line can stop fuel from reaching the engine, and your boat won't run. Be sure to check this when you pull your watercraft out in the spring. Pay close attention to your fuel hoses and replace them if you see any leaks. Replace any section of your fuel system that show any leaks, cracks, or structural damage.
6. Inspect the sails (if applicable).
   Winter weather can cause considerable damage to your sails. Take note of the shape of your sails. If your sails don't maintain proper form, you could have issues when boating in strong wind. Lookout for wear, chafing, and other structural damage. Inspect your bolt rope and replace it if it is fraying or weak. If your sails are damaged, replace them.

It is important that you perform each action in this checklist with as much attention to detail as possible. Properly de-winterizing your watercraft is crucial to your performance and safety out on the water.

*Please note: You should also follow the manufacturer's recommendations for any other maintenance requirements not mentioned in this article.
 
Looking for marine insurance? Get a quote today by calling 936-327-4364 to speak with a licensed agent

Content courtesy of Foremost.com.

If you're a music lover, you rejoice in the summertime. That's because it's a spectacular concert season! Music festivals and outdoor concerts abound, offering some of the best opportunities to experience your favorite music live. But this is no secret. In fact, according to Billboard.com 32 million people attend at least one U.S. music festival every year, and most of these festivals are in the summer.

If you're planning on attending music festivals this summer, you probably don't want to think about safety when you're dancing and singing along to your favorite songs. That's why it's important to plan ahead and be prepared. Here are some ways you can make the most of your summer concert experiences!

Always wear sunscreen.
You should apply sunscreen before you head out for the day, but you should also consistently reapply every two hours. It's easy to forget to take care of your skin when you're experiencing a live show, so carry sunscreen with you at all times. You don't want a bad sunburn to ruin the fun!

Bring plenty of food and water.
The energy and excitement in great live music is uncontainable. Cheering, jumping and dancing during a show is physically exhausting, but you typically don't notice until it's over. That's why it's important to be nourished and hydrated. Drink plenty of water beforehand, and carry water and healthy snacks with you. Some festival-goers wear hydration backpacks that typically hold between two to three liters of water, and they have room to store energy bars and other snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Pack the right toiletries.
Music festivals are usually sweaty, dirty and smelly…but totally worth it! With toiletries, you should aim to be practical, not glamorous! This is especially true if you will be camping onsite for an entire weekend. Consider packing items like tissues, sanitizing wipes, facial wipes and hand sanitizer.

Think twice about electronics.
You might want to reconsider bringing your tablet or a fancy camera. Outdoor concerts can have mud, heat and rowdy crowds—all increasing the likelihood that your electronics will be broken, lost or stolen. However, it may be useful to bring a watch, flashlight, your cell phone and a portable battery to charge it.

Go with a group.
Live music can be much more fun with friends to share it with! Attending shows in a group is also much safer. Concert buddies are extremely helpful in emergency situations and can help if you get lost, sick or injured. If you want to split into small groups, ensure everyone understands the plan.

Be strategic with your vehicle.
Plan where you'll park so you can choose a convenient location and save time when you first arrive. If you're camping at a festival, you can use your car as a place to store valuables, but don't leave food, toiletries, medications, electronics or other items that can't withstand great heat.

Keep your eye on the weather.
Be attentive and frequently check weather forecasts both before and during the event. You'll want to pack clothing that's appropriate for the weather, but it never hurts to bring blankets, rain jackets or other alternatives. While at the event, check to ensure there aren't upcoming thunderstorms or heat waves.

Plan your schedule carefully.
When you're at a weekend-long music festival, your excitement may cause you to forget that you can't do it all. Shows take a lot of energy, and it's unrealistic to plan on rushing to see every band. Instead, prioritize your favorites and plan for time to eat, sleep and take breaks between shows.

You may not be as jazzed about safety as you are about experiencing an incredible live show, but you can't have one without the other. These tips are just a few ways you can be safe and fully enjoy your time at every concert you attend this summer.
 
Looking for A Better Insurance Experience? Get a quote today by calling 936-327-4364 to speak with a licensed agent in our office.

Content courtesy of Foremost.com

There is a risk every time you're out on the road. Protect yourself from these common motorcycle crashes by being a proactive driver.

Left Hand Turns Collisions
In these cases, the opposite driver makes a left hand turn at an intersection in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. The driver may not see the biker, or they misjudge the speed and distance at which the biker is coming toward them.
Tips:

• Slow down at intersections.
• Anticipate the direction and speed of oncoming drivers.
• Watch for turn signals. Be ready to slow down or maneuver if a car pulls in front of you.

Head on Collisions
A head on collision is one of the most dangerous situations for a biker. Keep an eye on oncoming traffic, especially as it gets dark.
Tips:

• The National Safety Council stands by the four R's:
  1. Read the road
  2. Drive to the right
  3. Reduce your speed
  4. Ride off the road
• If an oncoming driver enters your lane, direct yourself toward the path of least resistance.

Lane Changing Collisions
The small structure of a motorcycle puts it at a higher risk of not being seen, especially on a highway dominated by semi-trucks. Proactive driving will reduce the risk of being involved in a lane changing collision. If you can't see the mirror or face of the driver, you are in their blind spot.
Tips:

• Never ride in a blind spot.
• Speed up or slow down to create space between yourself and other drivers.
• Anticipate lane changes. Turn signals, mirror checks and turning wheels are signs that a driver is planning to switch lanes.

Rear End Collisions
There are situations when a biker is caught off guard and collides with a vehicle in front of them. Stay vigilant on the road. Traffic conditions can change at any time.
Tips:

• Pay attention to traffic in front of you.
• Watch for brake lights.
• Keep a large distance between you and other vehicles to give yourself time to brake.

Corner Accidents
Be cautious when coming up on a corner. Debris on the road can cause your front tire to slip and lay down your bike. Turns can often be misleading, appearing wider than they really are. Be aware of your skill level and never take on a ride that you don't feel comfortable with.
Tips:

• Assess road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.
• Be cautious after large storms. Leaves or branches may have fallen, creating hazards around the corner.
• Take turns wide and slow.
• Trust your bike and lean into your turns.
• Stay calm and keep your eyes directed in front of you.

Foremost and First Community Financial Group want you to be safe! Though some accidents can't be prevented, it is important to do everything you can to keep yourself out of harm's way while you're on the road. Always be aware of your surroundings, and remember these tips when you ride!

Did you learn how to get better gas mileage in your driver's education classes? If it's been a few years since you earned your driver's license, you may not remember what they taught you or if they even covered the topic of getting better gas mileage. When headlines report "record high gas prices," nearly everyone wants to know how to improve fuel economy. If a commute to work or school is a requirement in your life and you want to stretch those precious gallons of gas each week, the tips we've gathered below may be helpful.

Let's start with the basics first. What is gas mileage or fuel economy? The National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) sets the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard for auto manufacturers, regulating how far vehicles must travel on a gallon of fuel. CAFE standards apply to passenger vehicles and light trucks (collectively, light-duty vehicles). Current standards are 28 miles per gallon.

In April 2022, new CAFE standards were announced that will require new 2024-2026 vehicles sold in the United States to average at least 40 miles per gallon.

The NHTSA along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also regulate the fuel-economy window stickers on new vehicles that tell consumers how many miles per gallon the vehicle will get under general driving conditions.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's get to the ways you can improve gas mileage for your vehicle.

Drive the speed limit. Speeding can lower a vehicle's overall fuel efficiency. According to fueleconomy.gov, gas mileage usually decreases at speeds above 50 mph. Now, that doesn't mean drive below posted speed limits, which can be unsafe. Be aware that vehicles will likely consume more fuel at higher rates of speed.

Mind the brakes and accelerator. Habitual aggressive driving - putting the pedal to the metal and then braking quickly to slow down - can also contribute to lower fuel economy. Avoiding this type of driving can help improve average gas mileage between 15% and 30%.

Use the cruise control. This might be a no-brainer, but using a vehicle's cruise control function, on the highway when traffic allows, helps maintain a constant speed, helping drivers achieve the first two tips we covered and, in most cases, will improve fuel efficiency.

Mind the vehicle's cargo limitations. If you're driving a truck and wondering how to improve your truck's gas mileage this tip is especially important. Each vehicle's manual includes the load carrying capacity for the vehicle itself and for towing, if applicable. This includes carrying things on top of the vehicle in any type of roof-top carrier, including cargo boxes, bikes and kayaks. Check your manual to be sure anything you carry is within the stated limits and realize that when you are carrying or towing more people or gear than normal, your gas mileage may decrease. For fuel efficiency, it's a good practice to not haul extra weight if the items are not needed on a regular basis.

Maintain the vehicle's tires. Underinflated tires can decrease overall gas milage by about .2% for every 1 psi drop in the average tire pressure of all the tires. Checking tire pressure regularly and making sure they are inflated to the vehicle's indicated tire pressure can help. Your car's owner's manual should include this information if you are unsure.

Maintain the vehicle. If a car's engine is not running properly, there's a good chance that it is not using fuel efficiently. It's a good idea to pay attention to the dashboard indicator lights, get routine maintenance and oil changes at the indicated mileage intervals, and have the vehicle inspected by a licensed mechanic to address any issues.

Consider a newer car. As mentioned earlier in this article, auto manufacturers must adhere to CAFE standards for the vehicles they sell in the US. The average fuel efficiency has increased over the years, so it follows that on average a newer vehicle should get better mileage than an older vehicle manufactured when the CAFE standards were lower. Keep in mind though, that the type of vehicle you choose also factors into the overall gas mileage. A smaller compact car and a large SUV manufactured in the same year may adhere to that year's CAFE standard, but the smaller car will most likely get better gas mileage than the large SUV. Make sure you do your research when you purchase a new or new-to-you pre-owned car, so you understand the fuel efficiency of the vehicle you choose.

Go electric or hybrid. This may not be the tip you're looking for, but if you're in the market for a new vehicle anyway, choosing a vehicle that runs on a combination of gas and electric or solely on electric can also help you cut your overall gas consumption. If you go electric, you'll want to be conscious of the vehicle's electric battery consumption. Many of the same tips we've already covered here like following the speed limit and maintaining the vehicle and its tires can also help an electric vehicle's charge last longer.

If you end up changing vehicles in a quest to improve your gas mileage and have questions about insuring your car, speak with a Foremost® agent to shop for auto insurance coverage.

Content courtesy of foremost.com

As one of the most common crimes, burglary is nothing to be taken lightly. And unlike common belief, most of these burglaries happen in the middle of the day. According to the National Council for Home Safety and Security, break-ins are more likely to happen between 6AM and 6PM, right in the middle of the day!
With the fall season upon us and the holidays approaching, it is important to make your home safe from break-ins. While there are many safety recommendations out there, HowStuffWorks has covered the seven most effective.

Don't showboat.
If you've just purchased a pricey new computer or television, breakdown the box and place it in the garbage bin instead of leaving it on the curb for everyone to see. Also, take a walk around your house to see how visible expensive items are with the curtains open. You may want to move some of them out of view to avoid enticing thieves.

Pretend to be home.
A break-in typically happens when no one is home, especially during the day while many people are at work. For that reason, create an illusion that someone is still there. You can leave a light on, along with music or your television.

Secure sliding doors and windows.
You can easily break into some older sliding doors by simply popping them off of their frame, even when locked. It's harder to do that with newer ones, but you should still take extra precaution to secure them since they can be an inviting entry for burglars. Simply take a strong dowel, steel bar or two-by-four and slide it into the back groove.
Although you should always lock your windows before leaving the house, you can install a simple pin or nail into to the frame to stop it from raising more than a few inches. This will add an additional layer of security in case someone pops off the screen and you have left the window unlocked. Also remember to check window air conditioning units. If you can jimmy the window up from the outside, add a stopper to that frame.

Don't leave a spare key out.
It may seem like a good idea to leave a spare key hidden under a flower pot or doormat in case you get locked out of your house. But that's an open invitation for a burglar to walk inside without any difficulty. Instead, give a spare to a neighbor you know well or friend who lives nearby for safekeeping.
Remember to never put any identifying information on your house keys. If you lose them, and someone else finds them, it would be fairly easy to trace them back to your home and break-in.

Secure your yard.
Tall shrubs and overgrown trees are welcome hiding places for criminals to wait until the coast is clear to get into your house. That doesn't mean you need to cut down every plant in your yard. Just keep things manicured.

Prepare before vacation.
Alert neighbors you trust about your trip and ask that they keep an eye on your property during that time. More importantly, when you leave town, don't leave signs of an empty house. First, if you have a home phone, don't change your message to alert callers that you have left town. Also avoid having piled up mail, overgrown lawns and newspapers strewn about your yard that send surefire signals you're miles away. Last, but certainly not least, don't announce vacation on social media.

Lock it up.
More than 40% of break-ins happen without the use of force, which means a lot of people are leaving their houses without locking the doors and windows. If you have a thumb latch lock and a deadbolt on your doors, always lock the dead bolt. Double-check weaker doors such as patio and sliding ones to make sure their locks are strong enough to withstand kicks. When you leave your home, don't forget to lock up the door leading from the garage to inside. Even if your garage door is down, someone can easily open it.

Content courtesy for Foremost.com