It's Time for Motorcycles and Boats to come out to play

Motorcycles_and_boats
The New England Weather has been GREAT for March.

 

The sunshine has forced some people to take their Motorcycles and Boats out of storage early.

 

 

There’s a few things you need to double check BEFORE you start to play with your toys:

 

            * Verify that your registration is active

 

            * Verify that your insurance policy is active

 

            * Verify the coverages and limits on your insurance policy

 

            * Do a safety check of the motorcycle or boat before you take it out

 

 

Please contact our office to go over your current coverages or to obtain a quote.

 

We’re ALWAYS happy to help you!

 

Oxford Insurance Agency : www.oxfordinsurance.com or  1-800-351-5130 .

What is Term Life Insurance?

It's true-deciding on a life insurance plan can be tricky. With the various plan options and the different components that make up each of them-it's easy to get overwhelmed.

That's why at Oxford Insurance Agency, Inc. we take time to guarantee that you understand all of your options and truly are educated before you make such an important decision.

It's your life, and it certainly is worth insuring. We're here to help make the process as easy as possible, beginning with a detailed explanation of just one of the many life insurance solutions available to you: Term Life Insurance.

Term Life Insurance tends to be the easiest to understand, and is considered one of the "lower cost" insurance options. Generally speaking, Term Life Insurance provides death benefit protection without any savings, investment or "cash value" components.

Term Life Insurance is available for set intervals of times; such as 10, 15, 25 or 30 years. With "Annual Renewable Term Life" your policy will automatically renew and your premiums will increase yearly. There is also the "Level Term Life Insurance" option if you want your premium to remain the same for the duration of your policy. There is even yet another option called "Decreasing Term Life Insurance" where your premiums can remain the same but your death benefits will decrease slowly over time.

Term Life Insurance tends to be a popular choice because of the extended rate-guarantee periods; but what it all really comes down to is what you feel best fits your unique coverage needs.

So, give us a call today; all of our dedicated agents at Oxford Insurance Agency, Inc. would be happy to assist with your Life Insurance questions; because understanding your coverage needs is the first step to insuring your life the right way!

Please visit our virtual insurance agency at  www.oxfordinsurance.com or contact us at 1-800-351-5130. 

Hurricane Irene's On Her Way - Are You Ready?

Hurricane
Hurricane Irene has weakened somewhat over the Atlantic as it roars toward the U.S. East Coast, but it could intensify again before slamming into North Carolina, and federal officials Friday extended watches and warnings as far north as Martha's Vineyard, Mass.

As of 5 a.m. Eastern time, Irene was 420 miles from Cape Hatteras, N.C., with sustained winds of 110 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane, according to a National Hurricane Center bulletin issued early today.

 

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) urges homes to make disaster supply kits:

  • Nonperishable foods
  • Canned meats and fish
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Canned soups and puddings
  • Canned fruit juices
  • Dried fruit and nuts
  • Bread, cookies and crackers
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Coffee and tea
  • Manual can opener
  • Bottled water (1 gallon per person/per day)
  • Prescription medication (2 week supply)
  • Extra eyeglasses
  • Pet food/supplies
  • Water purification tablets (halazone)
  • Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
  • Disposable diapers
  • Baby wipes
  • Baby food
  • Formula
  • First aid supplies
  • Masking and duct tape
  • Flashlight or lantern, with extra batteries
  • Battery operated radio, with extra batteries
  • Watch or battery operated clock
  • Ice chest
  • Matches
  • Canned heat (sterno)
  • Portable outdoor camping stove or grill with fuel supply
  • A certain amount of cash
  • Important documents (Such as wills, deeds, prescriptions, passports, birth certificates, health record, proof of address, Social Security number)
  • Plastic trash bags
  • Plastic sheeting or tarp
  • Chlorinated bleach
  • Personal hygiene items


 Other useful items:

  • Work gloves
  • Sun lotion
  • Insect repellent
  • Hammer
  • Screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • Wrenches
  • Handsaw
  • Razor knife
  • Ax or chainsaw
  • Rope caulking
  • Nails and screws
  • Rope and wire
  • Broom, mop and bucket
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Ladder
  • Sandbags
  • Portable generator
  • Tree pruner
  • Shovel, rake and wheelbarrow
  • Sheets of plywood

 Items To Consider Taking To A Shelter

  • Take along blankets, sleeping bags, pillows and towels.
  • Take along any necessary medications as well as personal hygiene items including: soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Remember that alcoholic beverages, and weapons are not allowed at evacuation shelters.
  • Remember not all shelters accept pets. If the shelter you will be using does, be sure to bring supplies for your pet including: a crate or carrier, food, toys to keep them occupied and medical records. Your towns requirements may vary, so be sure to find out exactly what you will need well ahead of time.


All of us here at Oxford Insurance want you to be prepared and
SAFE !

 

Please visit our virtual insurance agency at  www.oxfordinsurance.com or contact us at 1-800-351-5130. 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/nationnow/2011/08/hurricane_irene_closer.html

 

http://www.myfoxboston.com/dpp/weather/hurricane-safety-tips-20110824

 

 

 

Earhquake Coverage

Earthquake
 

Did you know that Earthquake coverage is not covered on the standard homeowner policy?

 

Earthquake coverage is excluded from your policy, unless you have purchased the endorsement to add the coverage to your policy, for an additional premium.

 

Normally, most of us wouldn't even think about purchasing earthquake coverage.  But on August 23, 2011, an earthquake centered in Virginia shook the Eastern Seaboard.

 

It was felt as a rumble leasting several seconds in our area and in Boston.

 

The US Geological Survey said the earthquake measured 5.8 on the Richter scale and was centered 83 miles southwest of Washington, D.C.

 

If you're interested in purchasing earthquake coverage, please feel free to contact our office at # 1-800-351-5130, or visit our virtual insurance office at www.oxfordinsurance.com.

 

 

 

Safety Tips for Safe Backyard Grilling

Grill

The onset of summer brings with it many things - leisurely vacation and travel time, a much-anticipated wedding, celebratory cookouts, jet skis and boating - whatever perks the season may bring your way, it's important to remember the accompanying insurance risks.

There are dozens of risk exposures associated with some of our beloved summer pastimes, but one of the most common and frequently overlooked is an American favorite-barbeque.

Did you know that each year Americans enjoy more than 3 billion barbeques?

According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments have responded to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbeque pits; each year. On average, these summertime fires have resulted in an upwards of 120 injuries-in addition to causing an average of $80 million in property damage.

But, despite the risks involved we love to take part in summer grilling.so what can you do to avoid running into trouble?

The following are some of the most important safety tips to help you maintain a risk-free barbeque, whether you prefer gas or charcoal grilling:

   . Always place your grill on a level surface at least 10 feet away from all other objects or structures such as your house, garage, landscaping, etc.
   . Never use a grill in an enclosed space-not only can it induce fires, but can be deadly in regards to carbon monoxide poisoning.
   . After grilling with charcoal, soak the coals in water and store in a metal container for proper disposal.
   . After cooking on a gas grill, always turn off both the grill and the propane bottle.
   . When grilling is complete, be sure to keep children and pets away from the grill until it is completely cooled.

For further barbeque safety tips, check out the NFPA's instructional grilling video, aimed at making your barbeque experience as safe - and enjoyable - as possible!

All of us at Oxford Insurance Agency, Inc. hope enjoy your summer-whether you are simply grilling up a dinner for two or are hosting a large family cookout; keep these summertime barbeque tips in mind!

Please visit our virtual insurance agency at www.oxfordinsurance.com or contact us at 1-800-351-5130. 

 

Identity Protection-Tips

Identity_theft
Identity theft is on the rise, and with summer vacations in full swing, this is a great time to remind everyone of what they should do to reduce their risk of identity theft while on the road.

  • Use a PIN-based ATM card instead of a debit card.
  • Leave checkbook, debits cards and all but two credit cards at home.
  • Closely watch who has your credit cards and for how long.
  • Frequently check credit and bank account activity on a secure computer or by phone.
  • Tell banks and credit card companies about travel plans, and give them your cell phone number in case they notice unusual charges.
  • Don't access personal or financial information on public computers and, when using your own laptop, make sure the wireless system you're using is legitimate and secure.
  • Use a hotel safe when available. Assume your locked hotel door will never be "locked." Many people you don't know have access to your hotel room.
  • Never leave personal information in a rental car.
  • Never share specific vacation plans on social networking sites.  

Oxford Insurance wants you to enjoy your summer vacation !

 

Please visit our virtual insurance agency at www.oxfordinsurance.com or contact us at 1-800-351-5130. 

Boat Insurance ~ Make sure you're covered

Boat
It's July ~ Summer Fun and Vacations are all planned. Did you remember to check on everything you need for your boat?

Maybe you use your boat to go fishing, or maybe you like to cruise around the lake tubing and water skiing.  Whatever you use your boat for, you need to make sure that you have the right boat insurance coverage protecting you and your friends.

  • Make sure you know the boating laws and requirements of the area.
  • Make sure you have enough life jackets.
  • Is your boat registration active?
  • Is the boat trailer registration active?
  • Have you called to make sure you have the appropriate coverage for your boat? 
  • Do you have enough fuel for your trip?

Oxford Insurance is here for you - We'll go over your current coverages or get you a quote for coverage.  

We want you to enjoy yourself, so make sure you're covered before you go in the water.

Please visit our virtual insurance agency at www.oxfordinsurance.com or contact us at 1-800-351-5130. 

 

 

 

Source: www.maininsuranceblog.com

Thunder and Lightning Storms

Thunderstorm

Mother Nature has been keeping us busy here in Massachusetts.  Weather in unpredictable.

Do you know the difference between a severe thunderstorm watch and a severe thunderstorm warning?

A severe thunderstorm watch tells you when and where thunderstorms are likely to occur.  Watch the sky and stay tuned to the radio or television for information.

A severe thunderstorm warning is when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.  Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.

Thunder and Lightning Storm Tips:

  • Avoid contact with corded phones (Cordless and cell phones are safe to use).
  • Avoid contact with electrical equipment. If you plan to unplug electrical equipment, do it well before the storm arrives.
  • Avoid contact with plumbing. 
  • Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
  • Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.

Remember, "If the thunder roars, go indoors" because no place outside is safe when lightning is in the area. 

Oxford Insurance Agency wants everyone to stay indoors for at lease 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.

Be Prepared ~ Be Careful ~ Stay Safe!

Please visit our virtual insurance agency at: www.oxfordinsurance.com, stop by one of our two locations, or give us a call at (800) 351-5130.

 

 

Source: www.fema.gov/hazard/thunderstorm

 

It's Motorcycle Time !

Motorcycle_blog
The weather in New England is beautiful.  Motorcycle enthusiasts are taking their bikes out of storage and having them detailed.  They’re ready to start riding.

 

Within the next few weeks, motorcycle will be everywhere. 

 

For those of you that have motorcycles, please double check the following:

 

·        Make sure your registration is renewed.  Some people forget to renew their registrations when their bikes are in storage.

·        Make sure your insurance policy is active. Some people forget to pay their motorcycle insurance bill, because they aren’t using their bike.

·        Review your current coverages.  Do you have enough liability coverage?  Do you have physical damage coverage for your bike, in the even of an accident?

 

For those of you that are driving cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc., Please remember to practice the following saying . . .

           

        Look Twice Save a Life ~

       Motorcycles Are Everywhere

 

Contact Oxford Insurance Agency for a review and quote of your current policy.

 

Visit us on our website at www.oxfordinsurance.com or contact us at #1-800-351-5130.

iPhone / iPad Apps ~ Managing your insurance is getting easier

Safety Insurance and Travelers Insurance are pleased to annouce that they have a free mobile app available for your iPhone / iPad.

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Safety Insurance has announced their new iPhone/iPad app called “Safety Mobile”. Safety Mobile allows Safety Insurance policy holders access to the following:

  • access your account information
  • report an auto claim at the accident scene
  • insurance cards
  • agent information
  • information on the VIP Claims Services
  • latest Safety discounts and offerings

The Safety Mobile app is free and available for download by clicking the App Store icon below.

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Travelers Insurance has created an iPhone/iPad app to assist insureds during an auto accident. “Travelers Auto Accident Help” reminds insureds of the steps to take in the event of an accident, such as:

  • documenting the accident and submitting the claim
  • tips on how to stay calm
  • photograph the damage and record audio description
  • send your report to any email address

The Travelers Auto Accident Help app is available for download by clicking the App Store icon below.

As new company apps become available, Oxford Insurance Agency will let you know.

Contact Oxford Insurance on our website www.oxfordinsurance.com or call us #1-800-351-5130.