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.

Ah, summer. We dream about in February, and it seems so far away in the cold! A few of these places can be seen in Winter, but summer might be best for them all.

It's the time of year the whole country comes alive and beckons us to get on the road and experience it. That's why I've put together this list of what I consider the five coolest places to visit in the U.S. If you've never been to these places, now is the time to pack those bags, explore and enjoy your  travels!

New York City
You have to experience the "Big Apple" at least once. It has everything you could ever want from a big city—museums, Broadway shows, restaurants with every type of food you can imagine, specialty boutiques and high-end shops. Plus, you need to see the Statue of Liberty in person and check out those neon lights of Times Square. Make Central Park one of your main destinations. Remember to see the amazing works of art at the Met and the Guggenheim. This is a city that never sleeps with endless things to try and taste.

San Francisco
The home of the Golden Gate Bridge offers gorgeous sights across its renowned hilly landscape and so many fun things to do, like riding cable cars, checking out Alcatraz Island, strolling along Fisherman's Wharf and driving up the famously steep and crooked Lombard Street. Just a few miles north, you can leave the hustle and bustle behind to visit the towering Redwood trees in Muir Woods. Or for some tranquility within the city, plan a picnic to Golden Gate Park and see lakes, museums, monuments and the Steinhart Aquarium. For another great view of the city, check out Strawberry Hill in the middle of the park.

If you've never been to these places, now is the time to explore! If you're traveling by car, motorcycle or RV, contact your local Foremost agency to get the right coverage for your ride!

Grand Canyon
If it's natural beauty you're looking for, you'll definitely find it at the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona. If you weren't seeing it with your own eyes, you'd swear it was a painting in glorious shades of red and orange. Nothing can top the magnificent views as you gaze through the canyon over the Colorado River. Visit the South Rim where you'll find Grand Canyon Village and the Bright Angel Trail. And if you're into roughing it in the wilderness, you'll want to head to the North Rim for backcountry camping and some serious hiking.

Yellowstone
Yellowstone has 2.2 million acres of paradise for you to explore—crystal blue lakes, tumbling water falls, majestic mountains, hot springs, abundant forests, open meadows and active geysers. There are so many trails, it could take weeks to travel them all. Be sure to check out everyone's favorite spots like Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake and Mammoth Hot springs. Then visit lesser known areas like the West Thumb Geyser Basin, the Lewis River Channel and the Dogshead Loop. You will likely be treated to sights of wildlife during your journey since over 60 types of mammals call the park their home. You could see buffalo, elk, coyotes, badgers and perhaps a few bears along the way.

Washington D.C.
Our country's capital has earned its place on the list of exciting East Coast vacation destinations. Not only can you soak up loads of our country's history by checking out the classic attractions like the White House, Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, you can also enjoy the many hip restaurants, cafes, clubs and boutiques. Endless opportunities abound to learn about our past at museums like the Smithsonian, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum , the Newseum, and the Mount Vernon Estate. It's impossible to leave the city without feeling a deeper connection to our roots and pride in the country we call home.
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Now that you know where to go, get those bags packed and enjoy your travels!

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

​As you purchase gifts this holiday season, don’t forget to protect any valuables you buy.  Make it a Happy and Safe New Year!

And as always, do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or for a complimentary coverage review. We’re here to help. 

​A fresh, new year always serves as an opportune time to review your auto insurance policy and ensure it’s up to date. 🚗 

With this in mind, we have put together an overview of how your policy can protect you against unpredictable winter driving conditions.

Have questions or want to review your coverage? Let us know!

​As 2025 kicks off, it’s the perfect time to refresh your homeowners insurance and make sure you’re fully covered against winter’s unexpected challenges! ❄️ 

With this in mind, we have put together a quick breakdown of what your policy should include. Have questions or want to discuss your options? Contact us today!

As you prepare to host your holiday celebrations, it's important to be aware of the potential liabilities associated with throwing parties at home. It’s equally as critical for hosts to then take steps to mitigate risks where possible. 

With that in mind, we are sharing a review of general liability information and key tips to keep in mind when hosting. 

If you have any questions about your liability as a host, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help!

​Small Business Saturday is approaching, offering a prime opportunity to support the local enterprises that contribute so significantly to our community. 

Why is supporting small businesses so important? 

🛍️Job creation 
🛍️Enhancement of local culture 
🛍️Strengthening of community bonds 
🛍️Economic growth

We invite you to join us on November 30 (and every day!) to explore local shops, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and engage with local service providers. 

Have a favorite local business? Share in the comments below, and spread the word!

​Unfortunately, the period of festive cheer we’re now enjoying comes with a rise in cyberattacks. 

With this in mind, we have put together some information about why cyber insurance is a critical component of your business strategy. Swipe through to learn more. 

Let’s work together to ensure your business is fully protected this holiday season. Reach out to our team with any questions about cyber insurance or to review your current coverage. We’re here to help.

As we gather around the table this year, we want to express our gratitude for your trust and support. To add a little extra flavor to your Thanksgiving feast, try out this simple and delicious recipe: Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon! 🍯

Enjoy your feast! And please note the office will be closed on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29. We’ll be back and ready to assist you on Monday, December 2.

Happy Thanksgiving!