by amanda | Jun 17, 2020 | Tips
Raise your hand if you’ve ever struggled finding the perfect holiday gift for your parents, significant other or friends…What about the boss who has everything? We know the feeling, we have all been there. While the holidays are a magical time full of giving, sometimes the shopping can be met with anxiety over finding a gift that’s just right. We’re here to help put the “merry” back in your holiday shopping with the “Top 4 Smart Home Gifts” to wow even the toughest person on your list
From playing your favorite music, to converting cooking measurements, the Amazon Echo is not only a speaker, but a smart home essential. It integrates directly with an Amazon account, and is even equipped to order take-out and purchase items from Amazon.
It follows voice commands and can control other smart home devices. Plus, it’s pretty and affordable! This is the perfect gift for a family member who is new to the smart home world.
Another essential in the smart home world. The Nest is a digital thermostat that helps cut energy costs. It learns your home temperature habits and schedule to keep a perfect temperature all day long. Like all smart home devices, they are always releasing new versions and advanced technology.
Do you have someone on your shopping list who always seems to misplace their car keys? Make their life a little easier with the Tile Key Finder. It is a small device that is powered by Bluetooth that emits a sound when a button is pressed on the app.
Smart Light Bulb
You may think “who needs a smart light bulb” and the answer is…everyone. A smart light bulb lasts much longer than a traditional light bulb, can be turned on via voice command (additional smart home products needed), and has the ability to change colors. All controlled with your phone or through a smart home system, it is an inexpensive and practical gift.
Take the guess work out of your holiday shopping with these smart home gifts! Want to make sure your home is protected all year round? Contact the modern day insurance agency, American Advantage – Petersen group today!
by amanda | Jun 17, 2020 | Tips
It is the most wonderful time of the year! Whether your home has been decorated since Thanksgiving, or you are just getting started now, safety with decorations might not be on your mind. CPSC estimates that were 14,700 holiday decorations related ER-treated injuries in 2016! That is an average of approximately 240 injuries per day during the months of November and December! Follow these simple safety tips from American Advantage – Petersen Group in New Berlin, Wisconsin to ensure a safe holiday season:
Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree!
What could better than a fresh-cut Christmas tree to get you in the holiday spirit? While fresh-cut trees are festive and smell amazing, they come with a variety of safety issues. If you opt for a live tree this year, make sure to place it away from heat sources and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Due to needles and sap, live trees are highly flammable. Even if you decide to fake it this year with an artificial tree, ensure it is fire resistant and still placed away from heat sources.
Also, ensure that you keep your live tree hydrated, a dry tree can catch fire much faster than a tree that has been properly watered. Do “water checks” a few times a week to ensure the tree has enough water.
Do you have furry friends that can’t seem to stay away from your tree? Secure your tree to the wall or ceiling with fish line so it cannot be pulled or pushed down. Also, use unbreakable ornaments when possible. If you are placing fragile ornaments on your tree, place them out of reach of children and pets.
Dreaming of a *light* Christmas?
While stringing lights anywhere out of your reach, make sure to use a proper ladder and bring a buddy to support the base! Avoid mounting lights in a fashion that could damage the cords, such as using nails or tacks. The best way to hang lights is with hooks or insulated staples! Turn off all lights before you go to bed or leave the house; lights have the possibility to short and start a fire.
Candles
While these tips should be used year round, candles tend to be burned more around the holidays. NEVER, use lighted candles on your tree or near any other evergreens. Make sure they are kept on a stable, heat-resistant surface where they cannot be reached by small children or pets and cannot be knocked over. Keep them away from trees, decorations, curtains and furniture. All burning candles should be within sight, and always extinguish flames before leaving the room.
The fire is so delightful
If you are planning to enjoy a fire in your fireplace this holiday season, follow these simple tips! Never throw wrapping paper in a fire, it burns quickly and can lead to flash fires. Instead, opt to recycle your used or excess wrapping paper. Before lighting your fire, ensure that the flute is open and all decorations are a safe distance away. While the fire is burning, keep a screen before the fireplace at all times.
We wish you a delightful and SAFE holiday season! Want to make sure your home is looked after year round? Contact the insurance professionals of American Advantage – Petersen Group in New Berlin, Wisconsin for a home insurance quote today!
by amanda | Jun 17, 2020 | Auto Insurance
Winter is upon us. No matter where your location, it is important to be aware of the extra precautions necessary for safe winter driving. From rain, sleet, ice, snow, and cold, winter weather is unpredictable. Often times, in the face of inclement weather, your best decision can be to simply, stay home. Weather and driving conditions that deteriorate so rapidly in just a few hours can also improve as quickly. Follow these winter driving tips from American Advantage – Petersen Group in New Berlin, Wisconsin for when you must drive is less than ideal conditions:
Before You Hit the Road
- Cold temperatures may affect the way your vehicle starts and runs. Check all of your fluid levels, such as antifreeze, and top off as necessary.
- Keep your gas tank as full as possible (at least half full). Empty tanks allow condensation and moisture into the gas lines which can freese making your vehicle difficult to start.
- Make sure your tires have adequate tread and are properly inflated.
- Prepare an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle. Include jumper cables, a snow/ice scraper, sand or salt, a shovel, deicers, a blanket, gloves and even boots. If your vehicle get stranded, you will appreciate the warmer clothing.
- Make sure your windshield and windows are clear before leaving your driveway or parking spot. You may be in a hurry but dangerously reduced peripheral, especially when driving snow may already reduce visibility, is an accident waiting to happen.
On the Road
- The most important rule to remember is stay alert and avoid distractions. Stay off your cell phone until you reach your destination, or pull into a parking lot if you must use your device.
- Give your car a chance to warm up. Cars are like people we need to warm up our bodies, and get the blood flowing before doing anything strenuous. Likewise, oil, needs to be lubricating your engines pistons and coolant needs to flow freely before you reach highway speeds. Why is this tip in the on the road section? Because you can conserve gas and warm your car up effectively by driving at 25 ‘ 30 miles per hour for the first mile or two instead of letting it idle in the driveway for five minutes. Moreover, idling in the driveway or parking spot does not warm up drive train components.
- All wheel drive (AWD) and anti-lock brakes (ABS) are no substitute for driving sensibly. AWD and ABS can help you maintain control but they won’t make you invincible. Maintain safe distances and drive at speeds appropriate for conditions.
- Should you become stranded remember it is usually best to stay with your vehicle until help arrives.
Want to make sure your vehicle is looked after year round? Contact the insurance professionals of American Advantage – Petersen Group in New Berlin, Wisconsin for an auto insurance quote today!
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