10 Quick Tips to Protect Your Halloween Visitors and Your Property

Jack-o-lanternSunday is Halloween: the spookiest – and maybe most dangerous – night of the year.  Every year, we hear reports of accidents, injury, or property damage that occur on October 31. Here are 10 quick tips to keep your family and property safe.

Keep Visitors Safe

Kids’ costumes often reduce visibilty, and are bulky. In their rush for the goodies, trick-or-treaters also like to cut across yards instead of using the sidewalk.  Plan accordingly.

1) Remove the glass from your storm door, so the kids don’t have to back away as you open the door to pass out treats.

2) Keep your stairs and sidewalks free of loose or broken pieces and other irregularities.

3) Secure  electrical cords for your outdoor displays so they are not a tripping hazard.

4) Replace any burned-out outdoor bulbs before Halloween night.

5) Keep pets inside, and away from the door. Halloween is one of the most stressful nights of the year for dogs. Between the repeatedly ringing doorbell and the strange costumes, even the best-tempered dog can be on edge.

6) Drive more slowly and carefully than usual. Be extra alert for dashing children, who may be wearing dark costumes. And – of course – drive sober!

Protect Your Property

7) Park vehicles in the garage, if you have one.

8 ) Sit outside to give out candy. This allows you to keep an eye out for any trouble.

9) Turn on floodlights to illuminate your yard.

10) Keep jack-o-lanterns away from flammable material (especially childrens’ costumes)!

We wish you a safe and happy Halloween! But, if you need to report a claim on your auto insurance, homeowners insurance or business property insurance, contact Noyes Hall & Allen at 799-5541.

Maine Snowmobile Insurance – The Top 5 Insurance Questions

It’s that time of year again, when clients’ questions turn away from boat and recreational vehicle insurance to snowmobile insurance. Here are some of the most common questions we hear:

How much does is cost to insure a snowmobile in Maine?

It depends. Some snowmobile insurance costs less than $80 a year (liability only on an older 500 cc sled with no young operators). Other clients pay almost $900 a year (3 newer 800 cc machines with collision coverage, and younger operators).

What Snowmobile Insurance Discounts are Available?

Depending on the insurance company (as an independent insurance agent,we represent several), you may earn

Maine snowmobile insurance discounts

for:
  • A good driving record
  • No claims in the last 3 years
  • Completing an approved safety course
  • Owning a home
  • Insuring your autos and snowmobiles with the same company
  • Paying your premium on time.
  • Belonging to a snowmobile club.

How Do I Insure My Snowmobile Accessories?

If you buy physical damage (collision and “other than collision”) coverage on your machine, you can usually insure accessories such as electronics and radios, trailers, custom paint, exhaust, seats, backrests and windshields – even plow blades and winches. If you tell your agent about these items, they will be able to include them in your snowmobile insurance quote.

Which Company Has the Lowest Snowmobile Insurance Rates in Maine?

No insurer is consistently under-prices all the others. Some companies are better on fast sleds. Some prefer touring models. Still others have a great price if they insure your home, auto and other assets. It’s a good idea to compare. Even better, find a Maine independent insurance agent who represents several insurance companies. They can do the shopping for you!

For answers to your insurance questions, or for a Maine snowmobile insurance quote, contact Noyes Hall & Allen Insurance at 207-799-5541.