How To Protect Your Home From Freezing

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Protecting your home from freezing during cold weather is crucial to prevent damage to plumbing, appliances, and structural elements. Here are some effective ways to safeguard your home:

1. Insulate Pipes 

  • Pipe Insulation: Use foam or fiberglass insulation to wrap exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
  • Heat Tape: For particularly vulnerable pipes, consider using electric heat tape that can be wrapped around them to keep them warm.

2. Seal Drafts and Gaps

  • Windows & Doors: Check for gaps around windows and doors, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. If drafts persist, consider using plastic film or thermal curtains.
  • Attic and Basement: Seal any gaps in the attic, basement, or crawl spaces where cold air could enter and cause freezing.

3. Keep the Heat On

  • Even if you’re away, set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°F (13°C). If you plan to be gone for an extended period, ask a neighbor or friend to check on your home periodically.
  • If you use a space heater, make sure it’s safely positioned, and be cautious of flammable materials.

4. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

  • Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them to prevent water from freezing inside the hose or faucet.
  • Use insulated covers for outdoor faucets to protect them from freezing temperatures.

5. Add Extra Insulation to Your Home

  • Attic Insulation: Ensure your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat from escaping and causing condensation or freezing in the roof space.
  • Basement Insulation: If you have an uninsulated basement, adding insulation can help regulate temperatures and prevent freezing.

6. Install a Freeze Alarm

  • Consider installing a freeze alarm that will notify you when the temperature inside your home drops too low, giving you a chance to take action before pipes freeze.

7. Drip Faucets

  • During particularly cold spells, leave a faucet running slightly to prevent water from freezing inside pipes. A slow trickle of water can help keep the pressure from building up in the system, which can cause pipes to burst.

8. Maintain a Steady Temperature

  • Keep your home at a consistent, safe temperature, especially at night when it’s typically colder.

9. Check Your Roof

  • Ensure there are no blockages in gutters and downspouts to allow proper drainage. If snow accumulates, it could lead to ice dams that may cause damage to the roof and interior.

10. Prepare for Power Outages

  • Stock up on essentials like bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and blankets in case a winter storm causes a power outage.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of freezing and damage to your home during cold weather.

In conclusion

Protecting your home from freezing is essential to prevent costly damage to your plumbing, appliances, and structure. By taking proactive measures such as insulating pipes, sealing drafts, maintaining a consistent temperature, and ensuring proper drainage, you can safeguard your home against the harsh effects of winter weather. Preparing in advance and staying vigilant during cold spells will help you avoid the inconvenience and expense of frozen or burst pipes, as well as other potential winter hazards.

You can experience the benefits of being a part of a full-service Independent Insurance Agency today! Simply contact Briggs Agency, Inc. if you are interested in an insurance review at 219-769-4840 or visit our website at www.BriggsAgency.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Blog post written by: Sarah Hlebasko

The Importance of Boating Insurance: Protection and Benefits for Every Boater

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Why Should You Get Boating Insurance?

Even in this blistering cool weather many should think about boating insurance for the upcoming season. Boating insurance is essential for anyone who owns or operates a boat, whether for recreational or commercial purposes. Here are the key reasons to get boating insurance:

  1. Protection Against Liability:
    • If you’re involved in an accident that causes damage to another person or their property, you could be held liable for the costs. Boating insurance typically includes liability coverage, which protects you from having to pay out-of-pocket for legal fees or damages caused by accidents.
  2. Protection for Your Boat:
    • Just like car insurance, boating insurance protects your boat against damages. If your boat is damaged in a storm, accident, or by fire, insurance can help cover the repair or replacement costs.
  3. Legal Requirements:
    • In some places, having boating insurance is mandatory, particularly if you’re operating the boat in certain waters or if you have a loan on the boat. Check local regulations to see if you need insurance to comply with the law.
  4. Protection for Passengers:
    • If you’re involved in an accident and someone gets injured on your boat, liability coverage can help pay for their medical expenses. This is especially important if you’re hosting guests or family on your boat.
  5. Peace of Mind:
    • Having boating insurance ensures that you’re covered financially in case of an emergency. Whether you’re facing a legal claim, a lost or damaged boat, or an injury to yourself or passengers, insurance gives you peace of mind to enjoy your boating experience without worrying about the financial risks.

Benefits of Boating Insurance

  1. Coverage for Damage to Your Boat:
    • Physical Damage: If your boat is damaged in an accident, storm, or from other risks, boating insurance can cover the cost of repairs or replacement. This helps you avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses.
    • Theft: If your boat or equipment is stolen, insurance can help you recover the loss.
  2. Liability Coverage:
    • Bodily Injury Liability: If you’re found at fault for an accident that injures someone else, this type of coverage will pay for their medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and even legal fees if they decide to sue you.
    • Property Damage Liability: If you damage another boat or property (like a dock, pier, or other vessels), this coverage helps cover the costs of repair or replacement.
  3. Medical Payments Coverage:
    • If you or your passengers are injured in a boating accident, medical payments coverage helps pay for the medical treatment, hospital bills, and ambulance services.
  4. Protection Against Uninsured/Underinsured Boaters:
    • If you’re involved in an accident with a boater who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damages, your boating insurance can cover the cost of repairs or medical expenses.
  5. Environmental and Pollution Coverage:
    • If your boat causes environmental damage (e.g., fuel spills, oil leaks), insurance may cover the costs of cleanup, which can be very expensive. This is especially important for larger boats or vessels in environmentally sensitive areas.
  6. Trailer Coverage:
    • If you need to transport your boat on a trailer, insurance can cover damage to the trailer itself or any damage caused by the trailer in transit.
  7. Emergency Assistance:
    • Many boating insurance policies include additional services like towing assistance or emergency response coverage. If your boat breaks down or you need to be rescued while on the water, your insurance might cover the cost of towing or assistance.
  8. Customization Options:
    • Many policies allow you to add optional coverage to meet your specific needs, such as coverage for fishing equipment, water sports gear, or even rental boats if you’re traveling and need a temporary boat.

Additional Considerations:

  • Comprehensive vs. Liability-Only Coverage: A comprehensive policy covers a wider range of damages, while liability-only coverage is more affordable but only protects you in cases where you cause damage or injury to others. Assess your needs and budget to decide what kind of coverage you need.
  • Geographical Coverage: Make sure your insurance covers the areas where you plan to boat. Some policies may only cover specific locations, so check if it applies to international waters or remote regions if you plan to travel.
  • Boat Size and Type: The size, type, and value of your boat can affect the cost of insurance. Larger or more expensive boats may require more coverage.

In Summary:

Boating insurance is essential for protecting yourself, your passengers, and your vessel while you’re out on the water. It helps cover potential financial losses from accidents, damages, theft, and liability claims. Whether you’re a frequent boater or just enjoy the occasional trip, the benefits of having comprehensive boating insurance far outweigh the risks of not being covered. It provides peace of mind, legal protection, and financial security, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on the water.

You can experience the benefits of being a part of a full-service Independent Insurance Agency today! Simply contact Briggs Agency, Inc. if you are interested in an insurance review at 219-769-4840 or visit our website at www.BriggsAgency.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Blog post written by: Sarah Hlebasko

Ways to Reduce Premiums for Contractors Insurance

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Briggs Insurance Agency works with construction companies all over Indiana and Illinois. Our goal is to help you find the best deal and obtain adequate insurance coverage for your business. Contractors are exposed to a variety of risks throughout the course of work. A quality insurance program is one of the best ways for your to manage risk in your business and ensure your continued success.

As your independent agency we will help you reduce your premium to keep more money in your pocket.

Here is a handful of tips to keep your premiums low:

  • Have multiple options
    • As an independent agency with 80 years in business we have multiple options that we can provide for you. You can leverage our relationships and deep knowledge of the construction insurance industry.
  • Safety Program
    • Insurance companies offer better pricing for safety conscious contractors. A good safety program will result in fewer claims,
  • Payroll classification and estimates
    • Most contractors’ premiums is determined by payroll amount. Often times a misclassification of payroll or over/under estimation of payroll can result in unexpected premium increases.
  • Discounts
    • Are you getting all of the discounts that your business qualifies for?

We would be happy to have the opportunity to work with your business in 2025. Contact us for an opportunity to see a competitive proposal.

 

Meet The Team – Wil Dwyer

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Wil Dwyer joined Briggs Agency in 2023 as an Insurance Producer and has quickly become a valued member of the sales team.

A current student at Purdue University Northwest, Wil brings fresh energy and a genuine passion for connecting with clients.

He is licensed in Property & Casualty and Life & Health Insurance.

Outside of work, Wil enjoys staying active at the gym and spending time on the golf course.

Pictured above with his girlfriend, Julia, Wil exemplifies the balance and support he brings to both his personal and professional life.

We’re lucky to have him on the team!

Meet the Team – Timothy A. Briggs

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Timothy A. Briggs has served as President and owner of Briggs Agency for over 40 years, continuing the legacy of the family business founded in 1946 by his grandfather and father.

A graduate of Indiana University with a B.S. in Business, Tim began his career as an insurance claims adjuster, working in Indiana, Chicago, and internationally before returning home to lead the agency.

Licensed in Property & Casualty and Life & Health Insurance, Tim enjoys interacting with life-long clients and working alongside a great team of employees. He’s proud to see Briggs Agency enter its fourth generation of family leadership.

Outside the office, Tim enjoys playing golf, boating, spoiling his grandkids, and spending time with family.

Fun fact: Tim worked as an insurance claims adjuster in Jamaica for several years!

Meet the Team – Nancy Briggs

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Nancy Briggs is a Personal Lines Insurance Representative who has been a valued part of the Briggs Agency team for over 10 years.

A proud alumna of Purdue University and Valparaiso University School of Law, Nancy brings both knowledge and care to her role.

She enjoys daily contact with clients and takes pride in helping them with their insurance needs.

Outside of the office, Nancy spends time with her family and beloved grandchildren, takes on home improvement projects, and enjoys relaxing by Lake Michigan.

Meet the Team – Dannette Kinnis

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Dannette Kinnis is a Personal Lines Representative and Accounting Manager at Briggs Agency for 20+ years.

Originally from Lowell, Indiana, she relocated to Hubert, North Carolina and has worked remotely since 2022.

Licensed in Property & Casualty, Dannette enjoys building long-lasting relationships with clients and providing dependable service.

In her free time, she loves relaxing by the pool and spending time with family and friends.

Fun fact: she’s a proud mom of grown twin boys!

Meet the Team – Cassondra Summers

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Cassondra Summers is the Personal Lines Team Leader at Briggs Agency and has been a licensed insurance agent for over 21 years.

A graduate of Purdue University with a B.S. in Marketing and a minor in Business Management, Cassondra began her insurance career through a Work/Study program at Crown Point High School in 1998 and earned her license in 2001.

She is licensed in both Property & Casualty and Life & Health Insurance. Cassondra takes pride in building lasting relationships and friendships with clients and is always willing to go the extra mile.

Originally from Crown Point, Indiana, she now resides in Jasper County.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and cheering on her two boys at recitals and sporting events!

Meet The Team – Allee Robertson

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Allee Robertson has been with Briggs Agency since 2021 and serves as a Commercial Account Manager.

She enjoys building long-term relationships with business owners and being the trusted, go-to resource her clients can rely on. Allee thrives in the fast-paced, problem-solving environment of her role and finds it rewarding to play a meaningful part in her clients’ success.

She holds a B.A. in Criminology with minors in Social Work and Business Analytics from Valparaiso University and is licensed in Property & Casualty and certified as an Indiana Notary.

In her free time, Allee enjoys spending time with family and friends, shopping, traveling, and working out.

Fun fact: She is a Lake County CASA Volunteer and has a twin sister.