Don’t Let a Tornado Topple You
Tornadoes are one of nature's most powerful and destructive forces; an F5, the strongest and most violent of tornadoes, can level almost any house and its occupants. Thankfully, F5 tornadoes are rare. Most are weaker and can be survived. And now is the time to prepare for them if you haven’t already. Tornadoes are most common from late winter through mid-summer.
Here’s what to do before and during a tornado:
• Know where you can take shelter in the event of the storm. Practice a family tornado drill once a year.
• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, including nonperishable food, water, medication, batteries and flashlights. Keep the emergency kit packed and easily accessible.
• Know the signs of a tornado: persistent winds, swirling dust or debris under a cloud base, loud continuous roar or rumble.
• Know the difference and help your children understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.
1. Tornado Watch: Current weather conditions could create a tornado, so be on the lookout.
2. Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted in the area. Seek shelter immediately and listen to the radio for further updates. A tornado warning is much more serious than a tornado watch.
• If a tornado is likely or known, take shelter indoors, preferably in a basement or interior first-floor room or hallway.
• Avoid windows and seek additional protection under large furniture or mattresses. This will protect you from flying debris.
• After a tornado has struck, stay out of heavily damaged homes or buildings. Keep clear of downed power lines, broken glass and other debris. Avoid lighting matches and cigarettes due to possibly ruptured gas lines. Try to stay calm. Help will arrive.
And remember, be prepared financially, too, before a storm ever hits. Don’t let nature blow away what you’ve worked hard to build. If you’ve made improvements to your home or purchased large ticket items, let us know. We can ensure they are properly insured. We can also help you review your Erie Insurance homeowners policy anytime so you’re aware of the coverage limits and can adjust them as needed. Give us a call. 317-534-5202
Keeping your family safe year after year. Our insured family is priority! Pass us along to your friends and families. Check out our website and learn more about our agents. Our history of claims backgrounds coupled with our passion for knowing your insurance coverage places us above the rest. Knowledgeable, dependable, Brookson Insurance is the agency for all of your insurance needs.
Have a great week!
Heather Swank
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Umbrella what does that have to do with insurance protection?
Catastrophes of the Court
How much does your policy cover?
Depending on the level of coverage you’ve purchased, ERIE’s homeowners insurance can help cover legal costs if you’re taken to court—for instance, if someone slips and falls in your driveway and blames you. But how much your policy will cover is limited to the amount stated in your policy. It may not be enough if the case doesn’t end in your favor.
To make sure you have adequate coverage, even for catastrophes of the court, consider purchasing a Personal Catastrophe Liability (PCL) policy, more commonly known as an umbrella policy.
The benefit of ERIE’s Mastercover Policy is that it offers a higher level of financial security in case you are sued for an accident.
These policies are highly important in this litigious age of multi-million dollar lawsuits. Insurance experts and financial planners say umbrella policies, or personal liability coverage, should be standard practice. Yet studies show that fewer than 15 percent of Americans purchase umbrella policies, which typically have annual premiums under $200 a year for $1 million or more in coverage. If you’re one who hasn’t purchased an umbrella yet and you’d like to, give us a call. We can help! 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC or http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Keeping you protected from A to Z
Brookson Insurance LLC
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
317-534-5202
How much does your policy cover?
Depending on the level of coverage you’ve purchased, ERIE’s homeowners insurance can help cover legal costs if you’re taken to court—for instance, if someone slips and falls in your driveway and blames you. But how much your policy will cover is limited to the amount stated in your policy. It may not be enough if the case doesn’t end in your favor.
To make sure you have adequate coverage, even for catastrophes of the court, consider purchasing a Personal Catastrophe Liability (PCL) policy, more commonly known as an umbrella policy.
The benefit of ERIE’s Mastercover Policy is that it offers a higher level of financial security in case you are sued for an accident.
These policies are highly important in this litigious age of multi-million dollar lawsuits. Insurance experts and financial planners say umbrella policies, or personal liability coverage, should be standard practice. Yet studies show that fewer than 15 percent of Americans purchase umbrella policies, which typically have annual premiums under $200 a year for $1 million or more in coverage. If you’re one who hasn’t purchased an umbrella yet and you’d like to, give us a call. We can help! 317-534-5202 Brookson Insurance LLC or http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Keeping you protected from A to Z
Brookson Insurance LLC
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
317-534-5202
Monday, March 21, 2011
What is or is NOT covered???
The age old question what does this policy really cover? Last week we delved into the issue of Flood which is never covered on a standard homeowners policy. Let's talk sewer & drain, sump pump failure coverage. This is for sure another way water enters the home is it covered? The answer is a resounding NO it is not! Especially if you have a basement and do not have this endorsement go out and add it tomorrow!
Water the enters the home through a sewer, drain, or from a sump is not covered. Think about what you have in your home not just the building, but the personal property that could be damaged. Now, think about our rain as of late? It is a scary proposition to be without this coverage. Have you had water from a sewer back up in your home? A sump pump in your home that could fail, will likely fail at some point? Then you should have this coverage. All of the resulting damage is not covered under your standard homeowners policy.
Earthquake yes that is another one NOT COVERED. Most earthquake coverage carriers a very large deductible 2% Or 5% or more. That is of your building coverage so whatever % deductible you have is based off of your "dwelling" value. Your normal policy deductible does not apply. Most earthquake damage is however very costly indeed. Makes sense the earth moves and the foundation can crack, walls, the house can shift. For this reason it is considered catastrophic insurance because it can cause catastrophic loss. Same with flood, or sewer and drain back up, and sump pump failure. Those coverage's that can cause catastrophic loss must be added to the policy.
Make sure when you are quoting your product, or when it comes up for renewal you are asking questions about vital insurance you need. And if suggestions are not being provided or offered then switch it is time.
We can keep you informed on new coverage's and vital endorsements that may affect your valued coverage's. Brookson Insurance we really do business better because of you.
Have a safe and wonderful week!
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
Brookson Insurance LLC
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Water the enters the home through a sewer, drain, or from a sump is not covered. Think about what you have in your home not just the building, but the personal property that could be damaged. Now, think about our rain as of late? It is a scary proposition to be without this coverage. Have you had water from a sewer back up in your home? A sump pump in your home that could fail, will likely fail at some point? Then you should have this coverage. All of the resulting damage is not covered under your standard homeowners policy.
Earthquake yes that is another one NOT COVERED. Most earthquake coverage carriers a very large deductible 2% Or 5% or more. That is of your building coverage so whatever % deductible you have is based off of your "dwelling" value. Your normal policy deductible does not apply. Most earthquake damage is however very costly indeed. Makes sense the earth moves and the foundation can crack, walls, the house can shift. For this reason it is considered catastrophic insurance because it can cause catastrophic loss. Same with flood, or sewer and drain back up, and sump pump failure. Those coverage's that can cause catastrophic loss must be added to the policy.
Make sure when you are quoting your product, or when it comes up for renewal you are asking questions about vital insurance you need. And if suggestions are not being provided or offered then switch it is time.
We can keep you informed on new coverage's and vital endorsements that may affect your valued coverage's. Brookson Insurance we really do business better because of you.
Have a safe and wonderful week!
Heather Swank
Owner / Agent
Brookson Insurance LLC
www.brooksoninsurance.com
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Rising Waters!
Check Your Coverage Before Flood Waters Rise!
Floods can happen anywhere, anytime. They’re one of the most unpredictable catastrophes, and just a few inches of water can soak your home and sock your wallet. And, according to safety experts, your home has a greater chance of being damaged by a flood than a fire.
But, did you know that homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage? Only flood insurance will cover the losses.
We can help you secure flood insurance to protect your home or business. Flood coverage options are available to you through:
• Erie Insurance, which has partnered with American Bankers Insurance Company. American Bankers is one of the top flood carriers in the country. They have consistently received an excellent rating for financial strength from A.M. Best credit rating organization.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners.
It’s a good idea to start the process as soon as you can because most flood insurance policies have at least a 30-day waiting period before they take effect.
Also, premium costs for residential properties vary depending on coverage, which is available for your building, contents or both. Our agency can help you determine the flood risk level for your home and property and advise you on the appropriate level of insurance protection. Give us a call to learn more about adding this coverage to your insurance package.
Next week learn more about sewer, drain, and sump pump failure coverage!
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Have a great week!Heather Swank
Floods can happen anywhere, anytime. They’re one of the most unpredictable catastrophes, and just a few inches of water can soak your home and sock your wallet. And, according to safety experts, your home has a greater chance of being damaged by a flood than a fire.
But, did you know that homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage? Only flood insurance will cover the losses.
We can help you secure flood insurance to protect your home or business. Flood coverage options are available to you through:
• Erie Insurance, which has partnered with American Bankers Insurance Company. American Bankers is one of the top flood carriers in the country. They have consistently received an excellent rating for financial strength from A.M. Best credit rating organization.
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners.
It’s a good idea to start the process as soon as you can because most flood insurance policies have at least a 30-day waiting period before they take effect.
Also, premium costs for residential properties vary depending on coverage, which is available for your building, contents or both. Our agency can help you determine the flood risk level for your home and property and advise you on the appropriate level of insurance protection. Give us a call to learn more about adding this coverage to your insurance package.
Next week learn more about sewer, drain, and sump pump failure coverage!
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
Heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Have a great week!Heather Swank
Friday, February 25, 2011
My kid is away at school is he covered?
Erie suggests renter's coverage to protect college students ages 24 and older. When your new college bound kid heads off this upcoming fall remember that their personal property is covered under the parents policy while away at school. Of course, the deductible applies to the losses reported.
When your child leaves for college with a whole slew of electronic apparatus that is quite expensive one thing to consider is pre-inventorying those items, saving the purchase receipts and make / model numbers. Of course, they take clothing and furniture with them too, other items that are just as costly in the long run. Possibly having a discussion with your agent about the deductible on the family policy before your child heads off to college is a good idea, or just to see if there is a better way to insure the laptop and much more. This is one of the benefits to having a qualified agent review your needs.
Yes, there is an age limit to the coverage and that age is college students 24 or older are not covered on your family policy. Make sure that if you have a grad student that they are getting the coverage they need to protect their property. After all, once it is on a college campus that property is at a much higher risk of theft.
I will never forget it when someone broke into my own vehicle and stole my speakers while I was in college. Most college students experience some loss while earning those degrees. Protection is just as important here as at any other time.
Contact our office, or pass our name along to those students you know who are 24 and older to make sure they are off to a safe start on their insurance protection as well.
Protecting your family is our job!
Heather & The Brookson Insurance Team
317-534-5202
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
heather@brooksoninsurance.com
When your child leaves for college with a whole slew of electronic apparatus that is quite expensive one thing to consider is pre-inventorying those items, saving the purchase receipts and make / model numbers. Of course, they take clothing and furniture with them too, other items that are just as costly in the long run. Possibly having a discussion with your agent about the deductible on the family policy before your child heads off to college is a good idea, or just to see if there is a better way to insure the laptop and much more. This is one of the benefits to having a qualified agent review your needs.
Yes, there is an age limit to the coverage and that age is college students 24 or older are not covered on your family policy. Make sure that if you have a grad student that they are getting the coverage they need to protect their property. After all, once it is on a college campus that property is at a much higher risk of theft.
I will never forget it when someone broke into my own vehicle and stole my speakers while I was in college. Most college students experience some loss while earning those degrees. Protection is just as important here as at any other time.
Contact our office, or pass our name along to those students you know who are 24 and older to make sure they are off to a safe start on their insurance protection as well.
Protecting your family is our job!
Heather & The Brookson Insurance Team
317-534-5202
http://www.brooksoninsurance.com/
heather@brooksoninsurance.com
Monday, February 14, 2011
Your neighborhood agency is growing!
The announcement of our newest agent Darlene Robertson comes with heartfelt excitement for what Darlene brings to the Brookson family. Darlene started her career in claims in 1998. Darlene has worked in claims servicing auto, bodily injury, and property. She has worked with insureds and businesses the like during the most difficult time, when a loss has occurred. She recognized that each client is different and their needs are as well. Her commitment to this field has made her not only more knowledgeable than most, but has provided her with a level of dedication to her clients that is unmatched. Most of all she is committed to being there for you and it really is as simple as that. She is 100% dedicated to the Brookson Insurance way of being available to our clients when they need us. She is here to recognize all of your insurance needs, better prepare you for those potential losses, and stand by you year after year as your families and businesses grow.
Welcome Darlene Robertson to the Brookson Family!
Welcome Darlene Robertson to the Brookson Family!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Life Happens Here
Just before 2010 closed a personal event in my life turned the page to 2011 with a slight fear for what's to come. I pondered this fear for the unknown, or what's to come over the last couple of weeks. I know that as an insurance agent my duty is to protect those I insure and I've always understood that, but it truly does go much deeper than that.
To insure the things that you work so hard to achieve is truly an honor. Coupled with the mere fact that I do it with Erie Insurance an extraordinary company that does right by their insureds makes it all the better for my clients. This "insurance" product you purchase is a necessary product, notice I did not say necessary evil. This is the only product that protects you, your home, your car, your toys, everything you live your life with. This product can even insure your life! The intention of this product is to make you whole when you have suffered a loss.
One of the deepest losses you can suffer is the loss of life. In this please take a moment this year to consider your life insurance products. I know it is uncomfortable, I know we don't want to really talk about this, but lets...
This can be much more inexpensive than you think and if you are saving money on other insurance products it may not cost you a dime. Call and ask me for our triple life quote. Why? Well, you can have an honest look at term insurance vs. whole life and universal life. Knowing the life products can sometimes be confusing too what is best for you when, what can you afford? These are the types of questions an agent can help you better answer. Here are some basics to consider when thinking about purchasing life insurance.
- who are you insuring
- what is their income
- do you have children
- burial expenses
- college expenses
- what is your debt load
You know there are even some life products that work like a retirement product and start paying you back at retirement. There are truly so many options it is like trying on shoes until you find the pair that fits perfect and you can afford.
Think about this as you go through this week...
You take the time to insure your home in case of fire or damage of any kind. You insured your car to protect it and you from an accident. Why in the world have you not insured your life?
It easy just call me and I'll do all the work and get you the options along with the understating of what those options are. After all, the most important thing to protect is you and your family so do that this year make it the priority. Life is about living long, enjoying family, and daily striving for what we hope to live. There is no excuse this year you must consider life insurance. You know with Erie you get an additional 5% discount on your other products if you have life. In some instances it nearly pays for itself. Please consider letting me do this one thing for you this year. 2011 is our agency Life Insurance year in order to better protect our families and business owners we will be getting life quotes out to you!
Enjoy the day!
Heather Swank
Agent / Owner
Brookson Insurance
To insure the things that you work so hard to achieve is truly an honor. Coupled with the mere fact that I do it with Erie Insurance an extraordinary company that does right by their insureds makes it all the better for my clients. This "insurance" product you purchase is a necessary product, notice I did not say necessary evil. This is the only product that protects you, your home, your car, your toys, everything you live your life with. This product can even insure your life! The intention of this product is to make you whole when you have suffered a loss.
One of the deepest losses you can suffer is the loss of life. In this please take a moment this year to consider your life insurance products. I know it is uncomfortable, I know we don't want to really talk about this, but lets...
This can be much more inexpensive than you think and if you are saving money on other insurance products it may not cost you a dime. Call and ask me for our triple life quote. Why? Well, you can have an honest look at term insurance vs. whole life and universal life. Knowing the life products can sometimes be confusing too what is best for you when, what can you afford? These are the types of questions an agent can help you better answer. Here are some basics to consider when thinking about purchasing life insurance.
- who are you insuring
- what is their income
- do you have children
- burial expenses
- college expenses
- what is your debt load
You know there are even some life products that work like a retirement product and start paying you back at retirement. There are truly so many options it is like trying on shoes until you find the pair that fits perfect and you can afford.
Think about this as you go through this week...
You take the time to insure your home in case of fire or damage of any kind. You insured your car to protect it and you from an accident. Why in the world have you not insured your life?
It easy just call me and I'll do all the work and get you the options along with the understating of what those options are. After all, the most important thing to protect is you and your family so do that this year make it the priority. Life is about living long, enjoying family, and daily striving for what we hope to live. There is no excuse this year you must consider life insurance. You know with Erie you get an additional 5% discount on your other products if you have life. In some instances it nearly pays for itself. Please consider letting me do this one thing for you this year. 2011 is our agency Life Insurance year in order to better protect our families and business owners we will be getting life quotes out to you!
Enjoy the day!
Heather Swank
Agent / Owner
Brookson Insurance
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