Make Sure Your Holidays Stay Happy … and Safe
You’ll no doubt hear the phrase “Happy Holidays!” about a thousand times over the next month or two. Here at Joyce Agency Inc, we’d like to change that a little bit: “Happy – and Safe – Holidays!”
While the holidays certainly bring cheer here in Stony Point, they also present some danger unless you take care when putting up your tree, lighting candles and keeping that fire going on a cold winter night.
During November and December, according to estimates by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 12,000 people are treated in emergency rooms nationwide due to holiday-related decorating accidents. Add to that the number of fires involving Christmas trees, candles and fireplaces, and you can see the importance of making safety a part of your holiday preparations.
Read on for some helpful tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics to keep your season jolly for kids and adults alike. And make sure to give us a call at 845-942-7200 if you have any questions about your coverage – or if you just need to know when you can drop off your gift to your favorite agency! (We kid, we kid.)
Trees
- When purchasing a live tree in New York and New Jersey, make sure to check it for freshness, as dried-out trees present a greater fire risk. It should be green, needles should be hard to pull off and not break when bent between your fingers.
- Make sure an artificial tree is labeled “fire resistant.”
- Any tree set up inside your home should be placed away from fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters. Don’t block a doorway with your tree.
- After cutting a few inches off the tree trunk to allow for better water absorption, keep your stand filled with water. Heated rooms can dry live trees out quickly.
Lights and decorations
- Even if you’ve just purchased them, check all lights before hanging them on your tree. The bulbs should all work and there should be no frayed wires or loose connections.
- Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. You or others could be at risk of electrocution.
- Outdoor lights should be certified for outdoor use. Don’t use nails or tacks to hold them in place; instead, use hooks or insulated staples.
- Turn off lights when you go to bed or leave the house to reduce the risk of shorted-out lights causing a fire.
- Outdoor electric decorations and lights should be plugged into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks.
- Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Never use lighted candles on or near a tree.
Fireplaces and candles
- Remove all greens, boughs, papers and other decorations from the fireplace area before starting a fire. Make sure the flue is open.
- Do not burn gift wrap in the fireplace. Wrapping paper ignites suddenly and burns intensely, which could result in a flash fire.
- Keep burning candles in sight. Extinguish all candles before you go to bed, leave the room or leave the house.
- Make sure candles are on a stable surface where kids and pets cannot reach them or knock them over.
- Of course, keep candles away from other flammable items.
Remember, you can’t have happy holidays without holiday safety. Here’s to you and yours, and a wonderful season for all.
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
December 01, 2011 5:56 PM
Halloween Safety: Be Ready When the Little Goblins Come Out in Stony Point
It’s a night full of treats for both kids and adults in Stony Point. But a number of factors – including lots of people walking in the dark, the threat of wet and stormy weather, strangers coming to your door – mean that Halloween in New York and New Jersey can have some tricks up its sleeve.
Joyce Agency Inc wants your Halloween to be a happy one. So whether you’re taking your kids out trick-or-treating, hosting a party or just staying home to greet costumed visitors, we can help make your evening safe while you take care of making it spooky. Just check out the tips below – and, as always, don’t hesitate to call us at 845-942-7200 if you have questions about your costume … er, coverage.
Make your kids’ costumes scary – and safe
- Make sure costumes are made of flame-resistant material. When wearing your costume, do not walk near lit candles or luminaries.
- Add reflective tape to costumes and bags to increase your visibility to drivers whether you live in New York City, or somewhere else.
- Masks and costumes should be properly fitted to avoid blocked vision and falls.
- Swords, knives and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.
Safe trick-or-treating in New York and New Jersey
- Trick-or-treaters should walk in groups or with a trusted adult. Do not allow kids to go out alone.
- Make sure kids know their home phone number as well as how to call 911.
- Flashlights and glow sticks can help with visibility while trick-or-treating.
- Kids should only enter a home if they’re with a trusted adult. Otherwise, stay outside.
- All treats should be examined for choking hazards and tampering. Homemade treats should not be eaten unless you know the cook well.
- Of course, it’s a good idea to limit the number of treats your children (and you!) eat. One way to encourage this is by having a full, healthy meal before going out trick-or-treating. And don’t let them keep their treats in their bedroom. Some kids can’t handle the temptation.
Having a party? Expecting trick-or-treaters at your house?
- Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit, and free of obstacles.
- Keep candles (including lit jack o’lanterns) away from doorsteps, walkways, landings and curtains.
- Remind drivers coming to and from your home to watch out for trick-or-treaters and drive slowly through Stony Point neighborhoods.
Carving those pumpkins
Creating a jack o’lantern is a time-honored tradition, whether you buy your pumpkins at the grocery store or at a local pumpkin farm in New York or New Jersey. But don’t forget, kids and knives are a dangerous combination. It’s best to have the kids draw designs on the pumpkin with a marker and then let an adult handle the carving. And here’s a great idea for kids who want to remove the seeds – rather than using a knife, hand them an ice-cream scoop. It’s a lot safer, and it just might be more effective!
Help keep Halloween safe for everyone – and remember, your kids WILL know if you swipe some treats from their stash!
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
October 26, 2011 2:58 PM
Let’s Keep Our Lawns – and Ourselves – Safe in New York
For many of our neighbors in Stony Point, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard – often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly.
Each year about 400,000 people are treated for injuries from lawn and garden tools, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Don’t let your landscaping efforts land you in the hospital! Follow these handy safety tips.
Tool Safety Tips From the U.S. CPSC
- Dress appropriately. To protect yourself from debris when using lawn tools, wear eye protection, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, close-fitting clothes and no jewelry. Sturdy shoes are recommended, and ear plugs may be appropriate depending on how loud the device is.
- Before starting, remove objects from your work area that could cause injury or damage, such as sticks, glass or stones.
- Keep children indoors and supervised at all times when any outdoor power equipment is being used. Never let a child ride or operate a garden tractor or riding mower, even if the child is supervised. And never assume children will remain where you last saw them.
Use extreme caution when backing up or approaching corners, shrubs and trees.
- Teenagers using power equipment should always be supervised by an adult.
- Handle gasoline carefully. Never fill tanks while machinery is on or when equipment is still hot. Of course, you should never smoke or use any type of flame around gasoline or any gasoline-powered equipment.
- Do not work with electric power tools in wet or damp conditions. For protection against electrocution, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
- Be sure that extension cords are in good condition, are rated for outdoor use, and are the proper gauge for the electrical current capacity of the tool.
New York and New Jersey Lawn Chemical Safety Tips from Texas A&M University
- If you use chemicals to control weeds or pests in your lawn, read the product label carefully so you understand the potential effects on humans, animals and the environment. Follow all instructions.
- Keep children and animals away from the application area, and protect your skin, eyes and nose during and after application.
- Remember, use only the recommended amount. Using more of the chemical will not do a better job.
- Ask yourself if you truly need to use a general pesticide. Is there a product that will specifically treat only the problem you need to solve?
From all of us at Joyce Agency Inc, here’s to keeping both you and your lawn healthy this summer!
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
August 18, 2011 12:13 AM
You Live in Hail Country New York. Are You Prepared?
Whether you live in New York or New Jersey, or elsewhere, hail storms don’t last long, but they pack a real punch. Every year, hail causes nearly $1 billion in damages, mostly to repair roofs and cars. A single series of evening storms in North Texas in May of 2011 caused an estimated $200 million to $300 million in damages, according to one estimate.*
You can save hundreds of dollars and hours of clean-up by making sure you understand your coverage, and taking some precautions, including checking your roof before the next hail storm.
Know What Your Insurance Covers and How Much You Need
- Check your policy to see what’s covered and the deductible you’ve chosen. Check with us at Joyce Agency Inc for added peace of mind.
- Your insurance policy typically covers the cost to repair roofs and cars, and other common hail damage.
- However, you may have a higher deductible for wind/hail damage.
Stony Point, You Can Take Action to Reduce Damage
If you haven’t taken a look at your roof in a while, now’s the time. Roof repairs today can help you avoid extensive, time-consuming clean-up later.
- Repair or replace worn, curled or missing shingles.
- If your roof is aging, consider replacing it before hail season begins.
When Storms Hit in New York, Protect Yourself-and Your Car
In severe storms, a hail stone can be as big as a softball and fall at 50-100 miles an hour.
- Stay indoors!
- Stay away from skylights and glass doors to avoid broken glass.
- If it is safe, close drapes, blinds, or shades to prevent debris from blowing inside.
- If you can, park your car in the garage or other covered area.
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
*Southwestern Insurance Information Service
July 12, 2011 12:41 PM
New York Riders – Be Safe on Your Motorcycle!
To stay safe on Stony Point streets, you need the right skills to control your ride, and the best safety equipment for just-in-case. Joyce Agency Inc cares about your safety – so keep these helpful tips in mind when you ride:
When You Ride, whether it’s in Tri-State, Down State, Hudson Valley, Ramapo Valley or North Rockland – Be Prepared and Protected
- Update our Policy when You Update Your Equipment
Make sure each piece of equipment is listed on your policy. Any time you buy new leathers or safety equipment or customize your bike, contact Joyce Insurance and let our team make sure your coverage is current before you head out on the streets.
- Training Saves Lives
Smart riders are safe riders – that’s why many states encourage riders to take classes and improve their riding skills. Riders who attend safe riding courses may also qualify for insurance discounts – contact Joyce Agency Inc to find out more!
- Helmets Are For Every New York Rider
A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is 40% more likely to sustain a fatal head injury in a crash than a rider without a helmet.* Buy a full-face helmet for the best protection for your head and eyes. Wear other protective gear as well: heavy leather or synthetic gloves, long pants and jacket, and over-the-ankle leather boots. Want to know what safety equipment is required in New York and New Jersey? Contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com today!
- Be Visible – In a Crash, the SUV Wins
When cars and motorcycles collide, it’s usually because the driver of the car never saw the motorcyclist. With more and bigger cars on the road, you need to take extra steps to become more visible. Use your headlamps – both night and day – and wear yellow, red or orange jackets to make yourself easy to see. Make a point of positioning yourself in your lane for visibility when out on the streets.
- Ride sober!
Driving impaired is more deadly for cyclists than other drivers. In fact, more than half of all motorcycle deaths occur when the rider has been drinking.*
* Source: NHTSA’s 2008 Traffic Safety report on Motorcycles.
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
July 11, 2011 11:22 AM
What to do if Something Happens on, to Your Boat
Being on the water in your boat can be a real joy on places like Hudson River, but it pays to know what to do if you’re involved in an accident in New York and New Jersey, or if something happens to your personal watercraft (PWC) when it’s on shore.
A capsized PWC may take on water, but it is designed not to sink.
- If you fall from a moving craft, hit the water rear end first, with legs together and arms over your head. A safety lanyard, attached to your wrist or life vest, should kill the engine. A running engine can damage the craft and cause injury to you. (If you become separated from the craft and the engine is still running, pull the lanyard off immediately.)
- Exercise caution when righting a craft to avoid injury. Roll the craft over in a clockwise direction to prevent water from the exhaust system from entering the engine.
- In the event of a serious emergency, or if you are injured, stay with the PWC until help arrives. Use your whistle, visual distress signal and/or mirror to attract attention.
- If you carry a handheld combination GPS/VHF unit, you will be able to call for help and provide your exact location.
Reporting an accident
The following accidents must be reported by the owner or operator of the craft to the proper marine law enforcement authority in the state or location in which the accident occurred.
- Immediate notification in the event of a death or disappearance.
- A formal report must be filed within 48 hours if a person dies, or if there are injuries requiring more than first aid.
- A formal report must be filed within 10 days for accidents involving more than $500 damage, or resulting in the complete loss of a vessel.
Be prepared to provide the date, time and location of the accident; the name of the person who was injured, died or disappeared; the craft name and/or number; the name(s) and address(es) of the craft owner and operator.
Security
A few simple precautions can help protect your PWC from theft.
- Never leave the keys in the ignition.
- Never leave your PWC unattended at docks or on beaches, no matter whether it’s or elsewhere.
- If in a group on shore, chain your PWC to others. (Keep in mind that chaining personal water craft to others in the water can scratch the hulls.)
- Permanently affix your Hull Identification Number (HIN) in a secret, unexposed location.
- Record the number and keep it in a safe place. It may help to identify your watercraft if it is stolen.
If on a trailer:
- Lock your PWC to the trailer.
- Add a hitch lock so the trailer can’t be easily towed away.
- Remove a trailer wheel and store it in your vehicle trunk.
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
July 05, 2011 5:50 PM
Purchasing, Safety Tips for Your Boat Trailer
When purchasing a trailer in New York and New Jersey or elsewhere, stay within recommended capacity guidelines. When determining capacity, remember to include the weight of fuel and accessories in addition to the weight of the craft.
Trailers come with closed or open frames. Closed frames help protect the wiring, but problems can be more difficult to locate and repair. Open frames leave the wiring exposed, but make it easier to spot and repair potential problems. Open frames also drain water more easily and efficiently, so keep in mind that when you dip that trailer into Hudson River, or elsewhere.
Consider the method of personal watercraft (PWC) support, the frame strength and construction, whether lights and wiring are approved for marine use, whether rollers and bunks are properly positioned and attached to the main frame for proper suspension, and the durability of the finish. (Powder-coated or galvanized finishes are more durable than baked-on enamel.)
Purchase good quality tie-downs with the right hooks to attach to your trailer. Before each use of your trailer, check:
- Tires for wear and inflation
- Hitch and safety chain for signs of wear or stress
- Braking system to make sure you can stop with a load
- Electrical system for improper connections, corroded terminals, damaged wires, burned out bulbs, etc.
- Wheel bearings are properly packed with a good bearing grease
- Lug nuts and main nuts are tight
- Stops, rollers and bunks for wear or cracks
- Coupler and ball are compatible in size and are properly secured. Check for wear or stress
- Both bow and stern of your PWC are secured to the trailer. Use extra tie-downs in case one should fail
- Emergency supplies; carry basic tools, spare bulbs, bearings, grease, mounted tire and highway flares
Drive carefully. Give other drivers plenty of warning for any maneuvers. Allow for the extra length of the car and trailer when turning and passing, and allow extra time for stopping.
Pull off the road periodically to check the rig. Examine the tires and wheel bearings for signs of overheating, check the lights and test the tie-downs.
Before Leaving Shore
At the Launch Ramp:
- It helps to have someone in the car, and someone at the water.
- Prepare your PWC as much as possible before taking your turn in line. Remove the craft cover. Remove the seat for a few minutes to allow gas fumes to vent. Undo the stern (not bow) tie-downs. Unplug the trailer lights. Make sure the PWC drain plugs are in place. Visually inspect your PWC from bow to stern.
- Be courteous. Wait your turn at the ramp. Don’t rush, but don’t linger longer than necessary.
- Make sure the way is clear before launching. Look for other boats, debris, etc.
- Be prepared to ride clear of the launch area immediately and to secure the PWC out of the way of others.
- Never leave the trailer unattended on the ramp with only the parking brake set.
Contact Us!
For more information on boating safety, boat insurance coverage or to get a boating insurance quote, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
May 12, 2011 6:47 PM
Your Guide to New York Personal Watercraft Safety
At Joyce Agency Inc we recognize one of the fastest growing American pastimes is recreational boating. While many boaters cruise in sailboats and powerboats, personal watercraft (PWC) have become a popular way to enjoy the water too. Recreational boaters use them as tenders on larger boats, to water ski, commute and just for spring and summer fun.
The following items will acquaint you with some information you should know before hitting the water on Hudson River, Seven Lakes, Hudson River and Bear Mountain, or elsewhere. For your own safety and the safety of others, we here at Joyce Insurance encourage you to learn more.
Federal and State Regulations
While personal watercraft are often driven by teens and young adults, they are not toys. They are classified by the U.S. Coast Guard as Class A inboard boats (boats less than 16′ in length.) Both the boat and its operator must comply with all Federal and New York and New Jersey requirements.
Federal regulations require that personal watercraft be registered and have an identification number. The validation sticker and registration number must be displayed on the craft.
State regulations vary, but may require the operator to be of a minimum age (usually 14 to 16 years old), complete a safe boating course and/or obtain an operator’s certificate. New York and New Jersey and local jurisdictions may also regulate speed limits, hours and areas of operation – please check these specific regulations.
Safety Equipment
All Class A inboard craft must carry the following items:
- Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each person aboard. (Type III vests, the most popular among PWC enthusiasts, are not designed to turn unconscious wearers face up, but allow greater freedom than Types I or II)
- Fully charged portable B-1 type fire extinguisher
- Efficient sound-producing device (whistle or horn) for signaling or warning
In addition, the following items are strongly recommended to carry or wear aboard the boat:
- PWC owner’s manual
- Boating safety course certificate
- Local chart
- Small waterproof first-aid kit
- Emergency repair supplies – basic tools, spare lanyard, strong tape, spare spark plugs, oil, spray lubricant and cleaner
- Visual distress signal (flare, brightly colored cloth or flag, signaling mirror)
- Tow rope
- Plastic one gallon fuel can
- Telescoping oar
- Anchor
- Sunscreen with UV protection
- Wet suit for water below 70 degrees – Neoprene pants for warmer water
- Helmet (required for racing) – a high percentage of injuries are head injuries
- Sunglasses or goggles
- Nonskid shoes or boots (for example, neoprene “wet-booties”)
- Gloves
- Waterproof watch
Before Leaving Home
- Study your owner’s manual to learn all you can about your boat.
- Inspect your boat and make necessary repairs.
Check
- Steering controls are operating properly
- For hull damage
- Throttle works freely and returns to idle position when released
- Hoses, hose connections and clamps
- Battery and cable connections
- For fuel and oil leaks
- For adequate fuel and oil levels – the jump pump cover and inlet grate for looseness
- Engine cover latches are secure
Check that all safety equipment is aboard and in proper working order.
File a float plan with a close neighbor or friend. Instruct them to alert the Coast Guard or local Search and Rescue if you don’t arrive home when expected.
At the Launch Ramp:
- It helps to have someone in the car, and someone at the water.
- Prepare your PWC as much as possible before taking your turn in line. Remove the craft cover. Remove the seat for a few minutes to allow gas fumes to vent. Undo the stern (not bow) tie-downs. Unplug the trailer lights. Make sure the PWC drain plugs are in place. Visually inspect your PWC from bow to stern.
- Be courteous. Wait your turn at the ramp. Don’t rush, but don’t linger longer than necessary.
- Make sure the area is clear before launching. Look for other boats, debris, swimmers etc.
- Be prepared to ride clear of the launch area immediately and to secure the boat away from others.
- Never leave the trailer unattended on the ramp with only the parking brake set.
In the Water
- Make sure you and your riders are wearing the proper gear, including PFDs. Most PWC operators who drown are not wearing a PFD.
- Attach the kill switch safety lanyard to your PFD or wrist. If you fall off, the PWC will come to a stop.
- Before starting the engine, check that the throttle control and handlebars are operating smoothly, and that the steering nozzle turns properly in both directions.
- The engine should be started in at least three feet of water to avoid stirring up the ground or damaging the jet pump. Run your engine for several seconds to get the water out.
- Maintain idle speed for at least 100 yards from shore, until you’re in a clear area.
Rules of the Water
You are required to know and obey the boating Rules of the Water. The rules can be quite complex, and a boating safety course is highly recommended, if not required in New York and New Jersey. Here are some simple guidelines for common encounters with other boats.
Non-powered boats, like sailboats under sail, commercial and fishing vessels all have the right of way.
When crossing paths with another boat (with the exception of those mentioned above), the boat on the right has the right of way. If necessary, slow down to let the boat on your right continue its course, then pass behind it.
When meeting another craft head on, stay to the right so that the other boat passes to your left.
When passing another craft, the boat being overtaken has the right of way. You may pass on either side, but stay well clear of the other boat.
Safe Boating Courses
Take a safe boating course through the Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons. The classes are free or involve a nominal fee to cover the cost of materials. Call the “Boating Courseline” at 1-800-336-2628 for information about a class in or near Stony Point.
For more information on boating safety, boat insurance coverage or to get a boating insurance quote, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
May 06, 2011 4:04 PM
Daylight Saving a Reminder to be Safe New York
In most places in the United States, Sunday, March 13, 2011, is Daylight Saving, when clocks are moved forward one hour. Regardless of whether Daylight Saving Time is recognized where you live, we here at Joyce Agency Inc want to suggest it’s still a great time to improve your family’s safety.
Be safe in your Stony Point home
Health and safety agencies often use the approach of Daylight Saving Time to remind people to change the batteries in their smoke alarms. The American Red Cross suggests you test your smoke alarms and talk with your family about your fire escape plan. Wherever you live, whether it’s New York or New Jersey, or elsewhere, practice the plan too – at least twice a year.
Daylight Saving is a great time to check your emergency preparedness kit to make sure it’s fully stocked with fresh supplies.
Carbon Monoxide a concern too
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 people die annually in the US from carbon monoxide poisoning. The CDC recommends changing the batteries in your CO detectors when moving your clocks forward this Sunday.
The CDC says the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include “headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.”
See the CDC’s site for more ways to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.
We here at Joyce Agency Inc hope these tips help and that you’ll consider sharing them with the people you care about so they can live safer lives too.
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
March 10, 2011 2:37 PM
Recreational Vehicle and Motorhome Safety Tips
Avoid any delays and unexpected problems when you take your recreational vehicle or motorhome out for what should be a relaxing trip from Stony Point. Follow some of our suggestions below, and consider investing in some maintenance and safety classes to help ensure happy travels across New York or New Jersey and beyond.
Take Care of Your Tires
- When you’re not travelingto Hudson River, or some other destination, keep your recreational vehicle/motorhome tires covered to protect them from the sun and weather.
- Make sure you check your tire pressure before setting out on the road for Tri-State, Down State, Hudson Valley, Ramapo Valley or North Rockland and beyond, especially when your tires are cold.
- Consult the owner’s manual for proper inflation, and never exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the tire’s sidewalls for your vehicle.
Weigh Your RV and Tow Vehicle
To know if weight is properly distributed and that you are within legal weight, find a certified platform scale in New York or New Jersey and get weighed. Have the vehicle fully loaded with passengers, cargo, fuel, personal belongings, fresh water and propane tanks to get an accurate weight.
Understand Propane and Gas Systems
Have the propane and gas systems inspected every spring for leaks and proper appliance operating pressure before you head out on vacation. Be sure you know how your RV alerts you to leaks, and know what to do if one occurs. Here are some easy things to do if you smell gas/propane:
- Extinguish any open flames and pilot lights.
- Do not touch electrical switches.
- Shut off gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply connection.
- Open the doors and windows and leave until the smell clears.
- Have the gas system checked and repaired by a qualified technician before using again.
Use the Onboard Generator Sparingly
The onboard generator gives you extra power when there’s no shore power available, but be wary of carbon monoxide.
- Never sleep with the generator running, and before you start the generator, inspect the exhaust system.
- Test the carbon monoxide detector, and know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning so you can watch out for it.
Contact Us!
For further questions and assistance, please contact Joyce Agency Inc at 845-942-7200 or service@joyceins.com.
Joyce Agency Inc: Saving People Money While Protecting What’s Important To Them.
Content provided by: Safeco Insurance
March 07, 2011 4:24 PM