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McGee & Thielen Insurance Brokers Blog

All You Ever Wanted to Know About Insurance

How Major Life Events Impact Your Insurance Needs

Life's biggest milestones, like marriage, buying a home, or having children, often bring new financial responsibilities and changes in your insurance needs. To ensure you and your loved ones have the right coverage in...

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Cybersecurity Implications of AI: Protecting Your Business

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize industries, its integration into business operations has become almost inevitable. AI offers substantial benefits in efficiency, decision-making, and automation,...

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When to Consider Commercial Umbrella Insurance

In the complex world of business operations, unforeseen events can lead to liabilities that exceed the limits of your existing insurance policies. This is where Commercial Umbrella Insurance comes into play, offering an...

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Essential Safety Gear for Motorcyclists: A Guide to Protection on the Road

Riding a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and excitement, but it also comes with its share of risks. To ensure safety on the road, it's crucial for motorcyclists to invest in proper safety gear. From...

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Protecting Data and Privacy for Remote Workers: Cybersecurity Tips and Best Practices

The shift towards remote work has introduced numerous benefits for businesses worldwide, including increased flexibility and reduced overhead costs. However, this shift also presents new challenges in data security and...

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Insurance Considerations for Newlyweds: Merging Policies and Coverage

Starting a new journey together as newlyweds is an exciting time filled with hopes, dreams, and plans for the future. Amidst the whirlwind of changes, it’s crucial not to overlook the practical aspects of merging your...

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How to Leverage Telematics to Improve Commercial Driver Safety

In the commercial auto industry, safety is paramount. Not only does it concern the well-being of drivers and the public, but it also significantly impacts operational costs and company reputation. With advancements in...

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Avoiding Common Home Insurance Claims During Renovations

Renovating your home can be an exciting journey, transforming your living space into the dream dwelling you've always wanted. However, amidst the excitement, it's crucial to undertake precautions to avoid common...

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Does Your Business Need Workers' Compensation Insurance?

Workers' compensation insurance is a fundamental aspect of running a business, providing vital protection for both employers and employees. This insurance covers medical costs, rehabilitation, and lost wages for...

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Essential Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

Taking care of fire safety at home is a key part of managing your household. Each year, fires in residential areas cause significant property damage. However, many of these incidents may be prevented with the right...

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Insurance Considerations for Home-Based Businesses

The rise of home-based businesses has been one of the most significant shifts in the modern work landscape. While operating a business from home offers convenience and flexibility, it also necessitates careful...

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Help Keep Teen Drivers Safe with Telematics

As parents, the safety of our teenage drivers is paramount. With road accidents constituting a significant risk for young drivers, leveraging technology to enhance their safety isn't just smart; it's essential....

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Help Protect Your Employees With Workers’ Comp

Business owners have multiple types of insurance to protect them from a variety of financial and legal risks. They should also protect their employees with workers’ comp insurance. Here’s what you need to know about...

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The Essential Guide to Creating a Home Inventory: Why and How

In the aftermath of an unexpected event, such as a fire, theft, or natural disaster, having a comprehensive home inventory can be a lifeline. This detailed list of your possessions not only aids in the homeowner...

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Help Protect Your Rental Property with These Smart Devices

If you own a rental property - whether a long-term one or a short-stay place you rent out to vacationers - you want to treat it like a business, as it provides income for you. Here are six smart devices that can help...

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Tips for Towing a Boat Trailer to Reduce Accidents and Insurance Claims

Owning a boat can make weekends and vacations fun and memorable. Follow these tips to help ensure that when you’re towing your boat you’re being as safe as possible to lower the risk of accidents and unwanted insurance...

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What is water backup coverage and why is it important?

Water damage can be disastrous to your home. Imagine discovering that your entire basement is filled with brown water and sewage from a backed-up water main or other pipe. It’s not only disgusting and potentially...

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Tips for Hiring Remote Workers for the First Time

Remote work is rapidly becoming a business model for the future. If your company has never hired remote workers before, here are some expert tips to help set you up for success and protect your business too. Determine...

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How to Choose the Right Contractor for Home Improvement Projects and Avoid Liability Claims

If you’re planning a home improvement project, you probably have many contractors available to choose from. How do you pick the right one that will get the job done safely and without liability issues? Follow these tips....

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Top Home Improvement Projects That Can Increase Your Home Value

When you tackle home improvement projects, it’s wise to prioritize those that add the most to your property’s value, especially if you might put your home on the market in the next few years. Here are the renovations...

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Is It Time to Review Your Business Insurance Policy?

Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, you no doubt have business insurance to protect your investment and hard work. It’s easy, however, to operate on autopilot without assessing your insurance coverage...

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Preparing Your Teen Driver for Different Road Conditions and Situations

If you have a young driver in your home, you may be fearful about them driving on their own, especially in bad weather or road construction. Here are some tips to share with them to improve safety by adapting their...

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Tips for Managing Your Business’s Online Reputation

Reputation management and its cousin, brand reputation management, are essential these days if your business has an online presence. Here are a few ways you can help protect your company’s reputation both on a regular...

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How to Winterize and Properly Store Your Boat

Your boat is an investment that gives you tons of fun all summer long. But come the cold weather months, you want to make sure it’s properly winterized before you store it, so it’s protected from weather and other...

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What to Consider When Expanding Your Business Out of State

If you’re opening a branch of your company in another state, congratulations! That means your business is thriving. Here are four important considerations to mull over as you expand. What Does Commercial Property Cost?...

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Save Money With These Smart Home Devices That Make Your Home Safer

Homeowners today have never had more ways to save money through technology. Here are five smart home devices that will help you cut down on your bills and improve your home’s safety. Better safety can mean fewer...

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Avoid Costly Liability and Damage Claims: A Maintenance Checklist for Rental Homes

Owning rental properties is a fantastic investment and a great source of regular income. You can safeguard your profit margins by reducing insurance claims for damages and liabilities. Use this checklist to make sure...

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Renting vs. Owning a Home: Protect Your Property No Matter Which You Prefer

If you’re on the fence about renting or owning a home, here’s a helpful look at the upsides of each option. Remember to get the right insurance when you make your choice, so your property is fully protected. The...

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The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Business: Opportunities and Challenges

Artificial intelligence has been taking the business world by storm lately, especially with the recent releases of new AI software. Would using AI be a good decision for your business? Let’s look at the pros and cons....

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Defensive Driving Techniques to Avoid Accidents and Insurance Claims

If you want to reduce your risk of traffic accidents and the insurance claims that accompany them - which could cause your premium to go up - you need to drive defensively. Here are some driving tips to help you avoid...

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How to Create a Business Continuity Plan to Help Protect Your Investment

Smart businesses have a plan in place to get up and running and protect their data if the worst happens. Here’s how to build a business continuity plan in case your company needs to deal with a catastrophe. Assess Your...

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What to Look for When Buying a House to Avoid Unnecessary Insurance Claims

If you’re house hunting, you’re probably looking at many elements like the number of bedrooms or how updated the kitchen is. Don’t forget to check for these things too, which which may help avoid home insurance claims...

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Maintenance Checklist for Rental Homes

Owning rental properties is a fantastic investment and a great source of regular income. You can safeguard your profit margins by reducing insurance claims for damages and liabilities. Use this checklist to help avoid...

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Benefits of Safe Driving Apps

Many insurance carriers today offer smartphone apps that track telematics to monitor driving. Here’s how they work and how these apps may help you lower your auto insurance premium, along with a few other advantages. ...

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What to Look for When Hiring Safe Drivers

If you’re hiring someone who will be doing a lot of driving for your business, you want to find someone who will maintain a stellar safety record. Avoiding accidents is essential, as it may reduce your risk of liability...

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4 Water-Saving Tips for Your Garden

Water has been in short supply in many areas of the United States lately. And even if it’s bountiful where you live, you may be paying more for water than you’d like. Here are some tips for using less water and saving...

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The Importance of Cyber Liability Insurance for Small Businesses

Small businesses today face many of the same challenges that larger ones do, and they're vulnerable to many of the same risks as well. One increasing danger for small businesses is cyber liability, because they're...

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The Importance of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Your auto insurance is one of the most important elements of your personal insurance portfolio. But some people purchase only the minimum required liability coverage, not realizing they may be leaving themselves open to...

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Energy Efficient Landscaping for Your Commercial Property

With increasing energy costs, businesses are always on the lookout for ways to save money. Did you know that you can cut heating and cooling expenses by strategically landscaping your commercial property? Here are four...

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Keep Your Home Safe While on Vacation

Whether you’re just getting away for a long weekend or spending a few weeks out of the house, it’s important to ensure your home is safe while you’re gone. Follow these tips to help prevent break-ins, fires, and water...

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How to Save Money on Commercial Auto Insurance

Commercial auto insurance is a must if you or your employees use vehicles for work. While this costs money upfront, it can save you in the long run. Just one bad accident without sufficient coverage can expose your...

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Who Needs Life Insurance and How Much Do You Need?

It’s an unfortunate fact that life expectancy in the US has dropped recently. This has led many people to examine whether or not they should have a life insurance policy and, if so, how much coverage they should have....

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How to Shop for Multiple Business Insurance Products

If you’re starting up or buying a new business, it’s vital to have the right insurance coverage to protect your investment and your employees’ livelihoods. But it can be confusing shopping for multiple business...

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Family Emergency Preparedness Checklist

It seems like every day on the news that we hear stories about a hurricane, flood, or wildfire creating massive damage in the U.S. and putting people out of their homes. Have you thought about how your family would...

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Commercial Building Fire Safety Checklist

As the owner or property manager of a commercial building, your fire safety protocols can mean the difference between life and death. Here’s a checklist to help you ensure your commercial property stays safe for...

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What to Check Before Buying a Used Car

With the new car market impacted by shipping delays, many people are choosing to buy used cars lately. And some people only purchase a used vehicle because it saves them money and lets the first owner figure out if it’s...

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Commercial Property Maintenance Checklist

If you own or manage a commercial property, you may be able to reduce headaches, expenses, and safety issues by properly maintaining the structure and grounds. Here’s a commercial property maintenance checklist to get...

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Should I Notify My Insurance Company About a New Puppy?

Having a new puppy join your household can change your life. The snuggles and kisses make getting up in the middle of the night for potty breaks worth it, but in the whirlwind of change, it’s easy to forget some...

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Heading Back to the Office? Help Your Team Adjust

If your team has been working remotely for the last few years due to the pandemic, you may be returning to the office now that the situation has changed. To help your group adjust, here are five expert tips. Start With...

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How to Choose the Right Smart Security Camera

A security camera can help protect your property against intruders or provide evidence in the event of a break-in. But with all the technology available today, it can be tough to figure out which smart security camera...

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Things to Know When Shopping for Home and Auto Insurance

If you’re looking around for home or auto insurance, you may find the process confusing, especially if you’re new to buying coverage and aren’t familiar with the terminology. Here are five essential things you should...

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Why Do I Need Business Insurance?

Many startups and small businesses often forgo business insurance to save money. However, this can backfire and actually cost you more in the long run - without the protection business insurance affords. Here’s why...

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Grill Safely With These Outdoor Cooking Tips

Grilling food is a fun pastime, and it’s ideal on those summer days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. But every year, there are accidents and home fires because people don’t grill safely. Follow these tips to...

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Landlord Insurance vs. Renters Insurance

If you’re confused by all the different types of insurance available today, you're not alone. Learn the difference between landlord insurance and renters insurance so you can get the coverage that’s right for you. What...

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Simple Household Pest Control Methods

No one likes the thought of having pests in their home, whether they be rodents, cockroaches, ants, or any other common household pests. If pest activity is common in your area, it is important to take steps to prevent...

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Five Commonly Overlooked Business Insurance Vulnerabilities

Smart business owners have business insurance, no matter how big or small their company is. But do you have all the coverage you need? Here are five places where business owners often find themselves lacking in...

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Landscape Maintenance Tips for Your Yard

You've worked hard to create a beautiful garden for your yard, but there is more to yard maintenance than simply mowing the lawn and watering the plants. There are plenty of other tasks you'll need to complete in order...

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Rental Property Insurance Basics

If you own a rental property, it’s no doubt a source of income for you. Therefore, you want to protect your property with the right insurance coverage. Read on to learn why you likely need rental property insurance,...

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Avoiding Water Issues in Your Home

Water damage is one of the worst problems that homeowners can run into. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to repair, depending on the extent of the damage, but it can also create the potential for mold and mildew...

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Commonly Overlooked Spring Cleaning Tasks

Spring is a common time for people to take on all of the cleaning tasks that they put off during the winter. With the weather getting warmer, it's the perfect time to tackle jobs both inside and outside your home. While...

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Energize the Office with These Energy-Saving Tips

No matter what size office your business occupies these days, it seems like energy costs are going up, up, up. Here are some tips on how you can save money and help the environment. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks on...

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Upgrading Your Windows - How to Choose What's Best for Your House

You may not give the windows on your home much thought, but they can actually make a big difference not just in your comfort level, but also in the value of your home. You'll have a wide range of options to choose from,...

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Do I Need Business Insurance for My Small Business?

If you own a small business, especially if you work alone, you may think you don’t need business insurance. But actually, without this protection, you could be opening yourself up to a world of liabilities. Here’s what...

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Tips for Saving Money on Heating and Cooling Your Home

If you're like most people, you like to keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. However, running your heater or air conditioner constantly uses a lot of energy, and your electric and gas bills...

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Helpful Ways to Support Your Remote Employees

The remote work model of the last few years is shaping up to be the wave of the future. Follow these tips to support your remote employees, whether it’s for a few months as needed or as a permanent new business model. ...

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How to Evaluate and Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

Today's modern appliances are much more energy-efficient than their predecessors, and some are even better than the rest. When shopping for appliances, you'll likely be overwhelmed by choice, so it is important to know...

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6 Ways to Improve Employee Mental Wellbeing and Satisfaction

Work consumes a huge chunk of most people’s lives. As such, a healthy and positive work environment is vital for employee mental health and business success. Luckily, more companies are now bringing mental health to the...

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How to Choose Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for any home, so you should ensure that your house is equipped with them. You should have detectors in the main living areas on each floor, including in every bedroom...

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How to Scale Your Insurance as Your Business Grows

As your business grows, so do its associated risks. Whether you are offering new products, increasing your headcount, expanding your operational structure, or shifting to a new location, all these moves come with...

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How to Make a Fire Safety Plan

No one likes to think about the possibility of a fire in their home, but this is one situation where it definitely pays to be prepared. This is especially true if you have children or pets in your home. Read on to learn...

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5 Safety Tips to Reduce Workplace-Related Injuries

As a business owner and employer, it is your moral and legal obligation to keep your employees safe and healthy at all times. Despite your intentional efforts to keep their work environment as safe as possible,...

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How to Decide If Solar Panels Are Right for Your Home

Solar panels can provide clean electricity for your home, helping you to save money on energy costs while also doing your part to help the environment. However, not all homes are suited to solar energy. Here's what you...

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How Independent Agents Are Different from Captive Agents

When it comes to buying insurance, you have two primary options available to you: independent agents like us, and captive agents. While both can provide insurance services, these two types of insurance agents are not...

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Benefits of Using a Dash Cam

More and more people these days are choosing to add dash cams to their vehicles, and for good reason. These small cameras can be highly useful to you, especially in the event that you get a traffic ticket or are...

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Swimming Safety: 10 Tips for Summer

Summer is here and people are flocking to the water — whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and...

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Why You May Need Personal Offense Coverage

In today’s digital world, slander and libel lawsuits are more common than you may think. Comments made in haste or anger on social media can have lasting and far-reaching effects on a person’s reputation or character,...

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Inexpensive Fixes for a Safer Home

Home improvement: It’s a never-ending process for many people, and for those of us who aren’t necessarily handy, it can be a hassle, too. But there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks and other improvements you can...

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Why a basic Homeowners policy isn’t always enough

Sometimes a basic homeowners policy just isn’t enough. So as your career advances and your income increases, it’s important to keep your insurance protection up to date. This helps you avoid expensive gaps in coverage...

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10 Tips to Help Prevent Identity Theft

Shopping online. Visiting the doctor. Buying gas. In nearly all of the things we do from day to day, there’s the risk of identity theft. You could unknowingly give your information to a fraudster thinking you’re...

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Own a home? Here are two policy options you should know about

If you have a homeowners policy, you probably expect it to cover all the costs of rebuilding your house in case it’s damaged or destroyed by a covered hazard. But are you certain you have enough coverage? Read about two...

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Porch Safety: Should You Leave the Lights On?

It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this...

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Don’t Delay — Start Thinking About Winterizing Your RV Today

Unless you’re headed to a warmer climate for the winter - or you live in one already - fall is the time to start preparing your RV for winter (as long as you’re done using it for a while, that is). And just because you...

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10 Things to do to Prepare Your Home for Fall

Fall is a wonderful time - if your home is ready for it. So enjoy the last few weeks of warmer weather, but do a little preventative maintenance while you’re at it. You’ll fix small problems before they become big, and...

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It’s Back-to-School Time — Is Your House Ready?

We’re not quite sure where summer went, but if you haven’t noticed, the new school year is upon us. And as you get your kids organized and ready, consider doing the same thing for something else - your home. It won’t...

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Tips for Power Tool Safety

What would you do without power tools? Well, you’d probably take on fewer home-improvement projects — and probably have a lot more calluses on your hands. Thankfully, you don’t have to do without. But you do have to use...

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How to Update your Home — Without Spending Thousands

It doesn’t take a massive remodel, or a big budget, to make your house feel a little more like home to you. Inside or out, small improvements can make a significant difference - and whether you’re handy or not, you can...

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I Just Bought a New Car. What Insurance Coverage Do I Need?

Congratulations! After weeks of research, comparing makes and models, and taking test drives you finally bought that brand-new car you wanted. But before you take that well-deserved road trip, check one more item off...

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Keep Your Pets Safe in a Disaster

A safe home, a regular routine, a soft bed – the things that bring you comfort bring your pet comfort, too. It’s so important to give some advance thought to how you’d handle your pet responsibilities during and after a...

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Why You Need Service Line Coverage

Let’s spare a moment for something most of us use every day yet probably take for granted: our service lines. We rely on them for access to water, electricity, gas, Internet connection, and more, but only think about...

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What to Consider When Choosing Auto Insurance

Carrying a minimum amount of auto insurance is required by state laws, so you can’t legally drive without it. Yet while the minimum amount keeps your premiums lower, it can also put you at great risk if you have an...

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5 Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips

Every year, unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning (not linked to fires) sends 20,000 people to the emergency room and causes more than 4,000 hospitalizations. And, you might consider them the fortunate ones. CO...

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When Roadside Assistance Isn’t Enough

If you’ve ever been stuck on the side of the highway with an RV issue, you know what a life saver roadside assistance can be. Whether you need a battery charged, a tire changed, or a tow you’re often back on the road in...

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What Car Drivers Need to Know about Motorcycles

Fall is here, and there are still plenty of motorcycles on the road. And the key word here is “see.” People driving cars and trucks often fail to notice the motorcyclists around them, partly because they’re not...

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How to Ride Your Motorcycle Safely in a Group

Group riding is a favorite activity among many motorcycle riders. Whether you’re part of a riding club, a social event, a charity ride, or out for a leisurely cruise with friends, group riding can be a rewarding way to...

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Insuring Jewelry: How to Know if Your Coverage is Enough

A ring from a loved one. A bracelet handed down through generations. A watch or necklace marking a special occasion. Every reason you treasure a piece of fine jewelry is a reason it should be insured. However, calling...

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Device Insurance: Cover Your Personal Electronics With the Policy You Already Have

It seems everyone these days has a smartphone. Or a smart TV, a tablet, or an ebook reader. Or all of the above – and more. When you add it all up, you may find you have thousands and thousands of dollars tied up in...

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How to Deal With Road Rage

Have you ever noticed that, with roadway anger, it’s always the other guy’s fault? And, it very well could be. The thing is, you can’t control how other people drive. But, you can control how you respond to situations...

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Safety Tips for Your Summer Swims

When the sun is out and the weather’s warm, people flock to the water — whether it’s the beach, a lake, a river or a backyard pool. But, wherever there’s water, there’s also danger. According to the U.S. Centers for...

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Safety Tips for Summer Thrill Seekers

The family summer vacation is a time-honored tradition, and it often includes a trip to one of our country’s incredible amusement parks. But, while the rides and other attractions at these parks are typically safe, it...

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What Should Go in Your Home Safe (or Safe-Deposit Box)?

Spring has arrived, which means it’s time to clean the cobwebs out of the corners, organize the closets and so forth. While you’re at it, don’t forget to revisit the important documents and other items you have in your...

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The Type of Fire Extinguisher Every Home Should Have

A fire is a fire, and a fire extinguisher is a fire extinguisher, right? Well, not quite. There are actually different types of fires and different types of extinguishers that respond best to each one. So, which is...

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Navigate Rainy Roadways With Care

It’s just rain — how much impact can it really have on your driving? The answer: a lot. You’re likely to experience lower visibility, reduced traction and increased difficulty in handling your car both during and after...

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Identity Protection Tips for Tax Season

What’s the most important number for you this tax season? The amount of your refund? The amount you owe? The number of hours spent poring over all the other numbers? All of those are pretty important, but none of them...

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What to Do After a Car Accident in Winter

Freezing temperatures, gusts of wind, patches of ice – winter can be a horrible time to be on the road, especially if you’re on vacation and aren’t used to driving in winter conditions. And, it’s an even worse time to...

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How to Avoid Animal-Vehicle Collisions

About 2 million times every year, animals and cars collide on U.S. roadways — often causing serious and even fatal injuries to drivers and passengers, along with about $1 billion in damage, according to the U.S....

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Thrifty Security: Burglar-Proof Your Home for the Holidays

It's not unusual, when you set out on that holiday trip, to look back at the house a little nervously. Sure, you remembered to lock the doors, but just how secure are things? What might happen while you're away?One way...

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Safe, Secure Shopping: Tips for Black Friday

It's become almost as much a part of Thanksgiving as turkey and football: Black Friday, the morning-after (or in some cases evening-after) shopping spree. It's the biggest shopping day of the year, an event in its own...

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Your Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Fall brings more than just changing leaves and shorter days. In many areas, it also comes with a shift in weather conditions that can have a serious impact on your home. And, don’t forget, winter is right around the...

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4 Ways to Help All Children Have a Great School Year

It's back-to-school time, and, if you have school-age children, your household is likely bustling with activity and filling up with books and backpacks. There are other households and school districts in your community,...

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Keep Cool While Keeping Your Energy Costs Down

Two thirds of households in America have air conditioners, according to the U.S. Department of Energy — and they spend a total of $11 billion each year running them. Our guess is that most of those households (which may...

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Tips for a Safe Fourth of July — From Food to Fireworks

Memorial Day might be the unofficial start of summer, but Independence Day is when the season truly kicks into high gear. July 4 is a holiday that has something for everyone, whether you like to host (or attend)...

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Commuting by Bike: How to Get to the Office on Two Wheels

There are plenty of great reasons to bike to work: Commuters who ride save money on gas and car insurance, stay fit and help the environment (they don’t get stuck in traffic, either). And they even have fun — as long as...

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Getting Your Boat Out of Storage and Into the Water

Spring is here, and you’re ready to get out on the water. But is your boat ready? Even if you’ve kept it properly stored for the winter and protected from the elements, there are still a number of things you need to do...

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Spring Into Home Maintenance Mode in California

Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and, as the weather gets warmer here in Sacramento, California, and the days grow longer, there's a positive energy in the air. Many people decide it's the perfect time for...

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How to Create Your First Garden This Spring

From genetically modified crops to the environmental and health effects of pesticides, more and more California residents are questioning whether they should grow what they eat. Wherever you stand on the issues...

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Helping Seniors Have a Wonderful Winter

Slippery sidewalks. Freezing temperatures. Power outages. Winter isn't always a wonderland. If you regularly lend a hand to a senior friend or family member here in California, it may be a good time of the year to...

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The Right Tires for Winter Driving

It's easy to forget about your tires when it comes to vehicle safety. But with winter weather already in many parts of the country, tires are an important aspect you should keep in mind. Your tires can be the difference...

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Holiday Safety Tips for Your Four-Legged Friends

As a nation, our pets are like family, so let's make sure they enjoy the holidays with us while staying safe. As a general rule of thumb, always keep pets on a regular routine, even during the holiday season. Don't let...

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Make Home Safety a Priority While You’re Away for the Holidays

The holidays can be a great time to get out of town to visit family you rarely get to see, hit the slopes or flee to the beach. Regardless of how you spend your time away, you need to ensure your house stays safe while...

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Essential Safety Tips for Nighttime Boating

If you own a boat (or better yet, as the joke goes, you know someone who does), you've probably thought about spending some evenings on the water - especially in the summertime. It's a great thought, of course. But,...

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5 Tips for Organizing Your Home for the New School Year

Yes, it's already time to start thinking about school again. Getting a head start can pay big dividends for you and your kids as they head back to class. But, it's not just what they need for school that matters. It's...

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Celebrate National Night Out With Your Neighbors

In 1984, National Night Out - "America's Night Out Against Crime" - began as a way to promote crime prevention through neighborhood camaraderie. Since then, according to the National Association of Town Watch (NATW),...

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Make Recycling and Reducing Routine

"Reduce, reuse, recycle." Most likely, you've heard that catchy phrase connected with information about saving natural resources and even saving your family money. But how many of us really make reducing, reusing and...

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Protect Your Most Cherished Possessions

If you're like most people, there are certain items you own that you can't imagine ever losing - possessions you deeply cherish or those that would be impossible to replace due to the cost of re-purchasing them or...

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Keep Water from Going Where it Shouldn't

One of the most disheartening experiences is to find flooding or extreme water damage to your treasured home. At McGee & Thielen Insurance, we know you want to protect what's important. That's why we're offering...

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A Little Extra Caution Can Go a Long Way While Driving at Night

While fall and winter have their own pleasures, longer nights mean increased danger on the roads. You might think you drive just as well at night, but consider this: Even though nighttime driving accounts for just 23%...

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Home Security Tips

Everyone wants to keep their home safe from burglars or intruders, but not everyone wants to have an alarm system installed. There are plenty of people who prefer the do-it-yourself route, whether it's home improvement...

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Five Sure-Fire Ways to Get Your Car Stolen

Most people would say their car is one of the most valuable assets they own – if not the most valuable. Despite that, however, some people make it downright easy for thieves to drive off in their pride and joy. At McGee...

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Protect Your Family From the "Silent Killer"

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That's why it's important to know how to prevent it, detect it, and protect yourself...

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Make Sure Your Pets Travel Well for the Holidays

The holiday season is here - time to eat good food and join together with loved ones. For many who have families far away, this is also is the time to pack up and get out of California. If you are gearing up to travel...

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Make Football Season Fun and Safe

Finally, we're welcoming fall, that eagerly anticipated season when we get to enjoy cooler temps, colorful leaves and, of course, football season in California. Football brings with it a whole host of seasonal...

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A Different Season Means Different Dangers For Motorcyclists

Fall is a wonderful time to be outside on your bike, thanks to the crisp, cool weather and changing colors of the landscape. Staying safe on the road in autumn requires some special precautions, however. Because we at...

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Back to School Safety Reminders

The end of summer in California means many things, such as cooler weather, shorter days and ... the start of football! But most important, it means kids are headed back to school. And that means we all should be extra...

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Flood Insurance - What You Should Know

You've probably heard this horror story before - someone loses a home due to a flood and learns after the fact that standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood damage. At McGee & Thielen Insurance we want you...

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When Things go BOOM in the Night - Fireworks Safety

For most of us, the Fourth of July is a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, having fun and creating memories - whether at home or away But for some families, the holiday is a nightmare. Each year, homes in...

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Do You Own a Classic Car of the Future?

There's nothing quite like driving a speedy, shiny classic car that turns heads and starts conversations. In fact, the beauty and elegance of old collectibles - like the 1964 Aston Martin DB5, the 1963 Corvette Sting...

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A Time to Celebrate Mothers

As the second Sunday of May nears, it's time to think of ways to celebrate mothers - although, of course, that's a worthy pursuit at any time of year! At McGee & Thielen Insurance, we thought it would be fun to give...

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It's Time for Spring Cleaning!

Spring is a time of new beginnings in Sacramento - and now is a great time to take on some cleaning and organization tasks around your home. If you're anything like many of us here at McGee & Thielen Insurance, some...

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Get Ready to Safely 'Spring Forward'

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 10, 2013, for most places in the United States, so don't forget to set your clock forward one hour. We here at McGee & Thielen Insurance want to remind you it's also a great...

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Be the Pinnacle of Health & Wellness This Winter

It goes without saying that keeping yourself and your family healthy through the winter months in Sacramento can be a challenge. When you combine chillier temps, housebound days - not to mention kids passing around...

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Prevent Your Pipes or HVAC System From Freezing!

As cold weather approaches in California, it's vital that you protect your building's fire suppression system so it not only does its job if there's a fire, but that it doesn't do more damage by freezing up, bursting,...

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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. Here at McGee & Thielen Insurance, we'd like to change that a little bit: "Happy - and Safe - Holidays!" While the...

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Tips for Preparing for Your Holiday Driving Trip

Millions of Americans will do some traveling this holiday season - the majority of it by car. Of course, winter weather creates a unique set of challenges on the roadways, whether you're simply driving around in...

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Halloween Safety: Be Ready When the Little Goblins Come Out

It's a night full of treats for both kids and adults in Sacramento. 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...

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When the Kids Head for College, Put “Insurance 101" on Your Class List

It's an exciting time when your child heads off to college. Whether they're attending school in California or have moved all the way across the country, there were a ton of things to get done last month, but did you...

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Get the Most Out of Your RV This Summer

There's nothing quite like taking a road trip in an RV. Whether you're headed to somewhere nearby or somewhere farther away this summer, McGee & Thielen Insurance Brokers wants you to get the most out of your...

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Make Your Vacation a Great One

Whether you're planning a trip to a local attraction in California this summer, or headed all the way across the country, you want your vacation to be relaxing. It's a getaway from work, not to mention your day-to-day...

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A Home Inventory Will Help You Know What You Own

Why should I have a home inventory? - Your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports or hobby equipment, and electronic goods are all regarded as personal property. Like many people in California, you may own much more...

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Safety Tips for Your Boat Trailer

When purchasing a trailer in California 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....

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Be Safe on Your Motorcycle

To stay safe on Sacramento streets, you need the right skills to control your ride, and the best safety equipment for just-in-case. McGee & Thielen Insurance cares about your safety - so keep these helpful tips in...

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Spring is Coming!

With the days getting longer and the weather getting warmer, we're starting to think about spring. (Or at least hoping that springtime is coming, anyway.) And whether spring arrives on time, we've got you covered with...

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Managing the Cold Chain

Protect your restaurant, your customers, and your reputation Restaurant and foodservice owners across California know the importance of managing "the cold chain" and how seriously it needs to be followed to prevent food...

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Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Car

Buying a new car is an exciting time - but it can also be stressful. After all, you're trying to get the best deal on price, while also deciding on the make, model and features you need. We can't really help you become...

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Preventing Outdoor Slips & Falls at Your Business

Slips, trips, and falls in outdoor environments can be caused by rain, sleet, ice and snow, and particulate soil that cause surfaces to become slippery or produce poor traction. While we cannot control environmental...

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Avoid Slips and Falls at Your Workplace

Slips and falls are the second leading causes of loss for business in California. And they can be prevented with a few maintenance and cleaning procedures. Most slips and falls are caused by the floor surface being too...

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Understanding Identity Theft

Your identity belongs to you. Here are some suggestions from McGee & Thielen Insurance to help you protect it. One smart and effective way to protect yourself against identity theft is to prevent it. If your...

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Controlling Product Liability Loss

When a company adopts certain management and operating principles, it can minimize or even eliminate products liability losses. Working these principles into your organization requires a systematic, coordinated loss...

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More Than a Tarp to Keep Your Boat Covered

Whether you own a Jet Ski, a small ski boat, fishing boat, or a 26 foot cruiser, knowing that you're covered by the right insurance should give you the peace of mind to relax and enjoy every minute on the water. What We...

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RV & 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. Follow some of our suggestions below, and consider investing in some maintenance and...

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