As the summer sun blazes down in East Texas, it's essential to be aware of the risks associated with heat stress. This condition occurs when the body overheats, leading to several potential health issues. Recognizing the signs of heat stress and taking preventative measures can ensure you stay safe during the hottest months of the year.

**What is Heat Stress?**

Heat stress happens when your body can't regulate its temperature effectively, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or excessive physical activity in the heat. It can lead to conditions like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which are serious and require immediate attention.

**Signs and Symptoms**

It's crucial to know the symptoms of heat stress, which can include:

- Heavy sweating or dry skin
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea or vomiting

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it’s important to seek relief quickly.

**Preventing Heat Stress**

Here are some tips to avoid heat stress during hot weather:

1. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.

2. **Dress Appropriately**: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help keep your body cool.

3. **Limit Outdoor Activities**: Try to avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

4. **Take Breaks**: If you’re outside or exercising, take frequent breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area to cool down.

5. **Know Your Body**: Be mindful of how you feel in the heat. If you start experiencing symptoms of heat stress, take action immediately.

Heat stress can have serious consequences if not addressed. By understanding the risks and implementing safety measures, you can enjoy the summer sun without compromising your health. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and have a safe summer!

As summer rolls on and temperatures continue to rise, it’s easy to get caught up in beach outings, barbecues, and other sunny activities. However, July is also the time to seriously think about another pressing matter—the hurricane season. With peak hurricane activity typically occurring from August to October, taking the initiative to prepare in July can make a significant difference when storms threaten our communities.

Understanding Hurricane Threats

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but historically, the most intense storms often emerge in late summer. July marks the transition from pre-season to the heart of hurricane season. It’s essential to understand the potential risks your area faces and to stay updated on the latest forecasts. Keep in mind that hurricanes can bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and even storm surges, all of which can have devastating consequences.

Create or Review Your Emergency Plan

July is the perfect time to create or revisit your family’s emergency plan. Here are some key components to consider:

**1. Know Your Evacuation Routes:** Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan in place for your family to follow. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for travel.
**2. Designate a Meeting Place:** In case family members become separated during an emergency, establish a safe meeting point, such as a nearby school or community center.

**3. Communication Plan:** Establish a communication plan in case you are unable to contact each other. Use group texts, social media, or messaging apps, as traditional cell services can be disrupted.
Stock Up on Supplies

Having an emergency supply kit can be a lifesaver in the event of a hurricane. Take time in July to gather essential items:
**1. Water and Non-Perishable Food:** Store at least a gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, along with enough non-perishable food to last that long.
**2. First Aid Kit:** Include basic medical supplies, prescription medications, and any necessary personal hygiene items.
**3. Flashlights and Batteries:** Keep flashlights on hand, along with extra batteries, to ensure you have light during a power outage.
**4. Important Documents:** Make copies of important documents such as insurance information, identification, and medical records. Keep them in a waterproof container.
**5. Pet Supplies:** Don’t forget about your furry family members! Pack food, water, a leash, and any important medications for them as well.
Stay Informed
Staying informed is essential. Sign up for local alerts and warnings to receive timely updates from weather services. Monitor reliable news sources and listen to local officials for important information regarding evacuations and safety measures.
​Prepare Your Home

Take steps to protect your property. This includes:

**1. Securing Outdoor Items:** Bring in or secure patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items that can become projectiles in high winds.

**2. Cleaning Gutters and Drains:** Clear away debris from gutters and outdoor drains to prevent flooding around your home.

**3. Checking Windows and Doors:** Make sure all windows and doors are properly sealed. Consider investing in hurricane shutters or plywood to protect glass windows.

While enjoying the warmth of July, it’s vital to also think ahead and prepare for potential hurricanes. By creating a solid emergency plan, stocking up on supplies, and staying informed, you’ll not only protect yourself but also contribute to the safety of your community. Remember, preparation is key; when storms arise, those who are ready will be better equipped to handle whatever comes their way. Stay safe and make this July the month you prioritize hurricane preparedness!

PLEASE NOTE: OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON FRIDAY, JULY 4TH. WE WILL RE-OPEN ON MONDAY, JULY 7TH. ENJOY THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND!

As the sun rises on July 4th, a sense of anticipation fills the air. This day, steeped in history, invites us to reflect on the meaning of freedom and the values that unite us as a nation. Independence Day is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a celebration of our shared ideals, resilience, and the sacrifices made for our liberty.

**A Brief History**

On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, marking a pivotal moment in American history. It was on this day that our forefathers proclaimed their right to self-governance, breaking free from British rule. As we celebrate today, it’s important to remember the courage it took to stand up for these principles. The words penned by Thomas Jefferson resonate just as powerfully now as they did over two centuries ago: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

**Traditions and Celebrations**

Independence Day is marked by various traditions that bring communities together. Families and friends gather for barbecues, showcasing the classic American summer fare — burgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob. Many enjoy parades showcasing local pride, complete with marching bands, floats, and, of course, plenty of red, white, and blue.

As daylight fades, the night sky transforms into a canvas for fireworks. The brilliance of lighting up the sky serves as a metaphor for the spirit of freedom—dynamic, vibrant, and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re watching from a local park or your backyard, the crackling bursts and cascading colors evoke a sense of wonder and gratitude for the liberties we often take for granted.

**Reflecting on Freedom**

While we celebrate, it’s crucial to reflect on what freedom means in today’s context. It is easy to enjoy the festivities without considering the ongoing struggles for equality and justice. Independence Day serves as a reminder that the work of ensuring freedom and equity continues. It challenges us to engage with our communities and strive for progress, ensuring that the ideals we cherish are not just words, but a reality for all.

**Creating New Memories**

This July 4th, let’s embrace the spirit of togetherness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, participating in local events, or taking part in volunteer opportunities, it’s a moment to connect, celebrate, and show appreciation for those who fought for our freedoms. Share stories with loved ones, honor those who serve in the military, and consider the impact each of us can have in fostering a more inclusive society.

As fireworks light up the sky tonight, take a moment to reflect on the journey that has led us here. Celebrate not just our nation’s independence but the hope for a future full of possibility for every individual. Happy Independence Day!

Father's Day is a special occasion celebrated worldwide to honor fathers and father figures for their contribution to society and the family unit. The history of this day is rich and varied, with roots tracing back to ancient times.

The modern celebration of Father's Day began in the early 20th century. The first known observance in the United States took place on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington, when Sonora Smart Dodd, inspired by the Mother's Day celebration, wanted to create a day to recognize fathers, particularly her own, who raised six children as a single parent. 

In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge recommended that Father's Day be observed nationally, but it wasn't until 1966 that President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a proclamation making the third Sunday in June the official date. This timing was likely chosen as it falls near the end of the school year, allowing children to participate in celebrations and activities. In 1972, President Richard Nixon established Father’s Day as a permanent national holiday.

Today, Father's Day is celebrated in many countries, albeit on different dates. It serves as a reminder to appreciate and honor the unique roles that fathers play in our lives. Whether it’s through a simple phone call, a special gift, or a heartfelt message, Father’s Day continues to be a meaningful occasion throughout the world.
​

​When hurricane season arrives, protecting your home and belongings becomes very important. For those of us in Texas and on the Gulf Coast, one key step is to make a home inventory. This list helps you keep track of your things and makes it easier to file insurance claims if something gets damaged. Follow these steps to create a home inventory before a hurricane.

1. **Gather Your Tools**

Before you start, get these tools ready:

- A notebook or a digital device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop)
- A camera or smartphone for photos
- A measuring tape for larger items
- A checklist or template to stay organized

2. **Go Room by Room**

Start with one room and go through your entire home. This way, you won’t miss anything. Here’s what to do in each space:

- **Living Room:** List furniture, electronics, artwork, and decorative items.
- **Kitchen:** Include appliances, cookware, dishes, and food supplies.
- **Bedrooms:** Note beds, dressers, clothing, and personal items.
- **Bathrooms:** Write down toiletries, linens, and valuable accessories.
- **Garage/Basement/Attic:** Don’t forget tools, seasonal items, and storage boxes.

3. **Document Your Items**

For each item, write down these details:

- **Description:** Name and description (e.g., brand, model, year)
- **Condition:** State of the item (new, good, worn)
- **Value:** Estimated price or how much you paid
- **Serial Numbers:** Note serial numbers for electronics or appliances

4. **Take Photos and Videos**

Use your smartphone to take clear photos of each room and item. You can also make a video showing your home and describing items. Make sure the lighting is good so everything is easy to see.

 5. **Store Your Inventory Safely**

Once you finish your inventory, save it in a safe place. If it’s digital, store it in the cloud so you can access it even if your home gets damaged. If it’s on paper, keep it in a waterproof container or take it with you if you evacuate.

6. **Review and Update Regularly**

Keep your home inventory up to date. Review it regularly, especially after buying or changing items in your home. This way, your records stay accurate and useful.

7. **Check Your Insurance Policy**

After documenting your items, look over your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Make sure you have enough coverage for your belongings, especially high-value items. If needed, talk to your insurance agent for help.

8. **Prepare for the Storm**

Once your inventory is ready, focus on other ways to prepare. Secure your property, gather supplies, and make an evacuation plan if necessary. Having your home inventory handy will help reduce stress if disaster strikes.

Creating a home inventory may feel like a lot of work, but it is an essential part of getting ready for hurricanes. A good record of your belongings will help you if something gets damaged. Take the time now to protect your things and feel more at ease during hurricane season. Stay safe!

​June 1 marks the first day of hurricane season. Everyone from Texas to New York should stay weather aware during hurricane season.

Take time now to prepare your home and household for any severe weather that comes your way. Remember, hurricanes are not just a coastal problem; they can also affect inland areas with rain, water, and high winds. Plan ahead and help prepare for a hurricane with this handy checklist.

✓ Create an emergency preparedness kit.

Depending on the severity of the storm, you may not have access to food, water or electricity for days. Have an emergency kit for your home ready to go that includes non-perishable foods, personal and financial records, a first aid kit, battery-powered electronics and more. Check out our emergency preparedness infographic for a full list of items to include in your kit.

✓ Make a plan.
Have a meeting with all the members of your household to discuss your emergency plan. Designate one room to best protect you from high winds —a small, windowless room that is safe from flooding. If your home is in an area that is likely to flood, or if you live in a mobile home, plan to evacuate and find accommodations in a designated community shelter or at a friend or family's home.

Sign up for FEMA's text messaging alert system and your community's emergency alerts to be aware of severe weather warnings in place and the location of nearby shelters if advised to evacuate. Know your evacuation route and practice it often.

✓ Prepare your home.

Can your home withstand hurricane-force winds? There are plenty of ways to help protect the exterior of your home during severe weather. Before a hurricane makes landfall, remove any outdoor patio furniture, clear debris from your drains and gutters, reinforce your garage doors and consider installing hurricane shutters.

✓ Create a personal property inventory.

Having a record of all your valuable belongings will help you out significantly if you have to file an insurance claim. Find out what you should include in your inventory and the best way to record it here.

✓ Check your homeowners insurance policy.

Most homeowners insurance policies will cover the damages sustained in a hurricane, but not the floods that can follow. Review your insurance policy and speak with your independent insurance agent about what limitations your policy may have in place and make adjustments accordingly. Contact your agent early as some coverage may have a waiting period, also known as a qualifying period, before it can start.

Do you have flood insurance? Find a Foremost insurance agent near you that can help as you choose the right policy to protect your home.
​

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

Different countries celebrate Mother's Day with unique traditions that highlight the importance of mothers. 

In Mexico, "Día de las Madres" is on May 10th, where families gather to sing, prepare special meals, and often hire mariachis to serenade their mothers.

In Thailand, Mother's Day coincides with Queen Sirikit's birthday on August 12th. People honor their mothers by wearing blue and giving jasmine flowers to symbolize love and respect.

Ethiopia celebrates Mother's Day as part of "We'Met," a multi-day festival filled with food, singing, and dancing to strengthen family ties.

In the UK, "Mothering Sunday" originated from attending church and has evolved into a day of gift-giving and family meals to honor mothers.

In Japan, Mother’s Day falls on the second Sunday in May, with red carnations given as symbols of purity and love, often accompanied by heartfelt letters from children. 

These traditions showcase the universal appreciation for mothers while reflecting each culture's unique values.

No matter where or how you celebrate Mother's Day, may it be a wonderful tradition for the whole family. Honor the memories of those gone, and celebrate the mothers that are still with us.

Every first Saturday in May, the world turns its eyes to Louisville, Kentucky, for the thrilling spectacle of the Kentucky Derby. Known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," this prestigious horse race has captivated audiences since its inception in 1875. The Kentucky Derby is not just about the race; it’s an entire experience steeped in tradition. 

The event kicks off with the "Run for the Roses," named for the iconic garland of roses awarded to the winning horse. Attendees are encouraged to don their best attire, and the elaborate hats worn by many women have become a timeless and delightful part of the Derby experience. 

Aside from the fashion and festivities, the Derby serves as a showcase for some of the finest thoroughbreds in horse racing. The road to the Derby includes a series of qualifying races, where horses vie for points to secure their spot in this elite event. Once the gates open, spectators and fans hold their breath as they watch these incredible athletes thunder down the track, each vying for glory. 

The atmosphere at Churchill Downs is electric, with live music, delicious food, and, of course, the chance to experience the thrill of betting on your favorite horse. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, the Kentucky Derby offers something for everyone. As the excitement wraps up each year, the Derby reminds us of the rich heritage of horse racing and the joys of community celebration. 

Whether you attend in person or watch from home, the Kentucky Derby continues to be a cherished tradition that unites fans in the heart of springtime. So, mark your calendars and get ready for a day filled with speed, style, and unforgettable moments!