Month: February 2017

What if I Get Stranded by a Winter Storm?

Posted on by AgentInsure

It doesn’t matter how many years of experience you have driving in winter weather, an unexpected storm can leave you stranded. Residents of Centennial, CO know road conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Studded tires and chains may provide some traction in certain conditions, but they will not counteract the impact of severe winter weather.

Weather apps can keep you updated on the approach of inclement weather. If possible, wait until snow or ice passes and road crews have had a chance to clear roads. Compass Insurance encourages you to visit the Ready.gov website for information on being prepared if travel is a must. Share your travel route with family and friends. Stick to your route so people will know where to look if you lose touch or become stranded.

Before You Leave

Fill your gas tank, charge your phone, and check the contents of your emergency kit.

Ready.gov recommends your emergency kit contains:

  • Rock salt and kitty litter
  • Shovel
  • First-aid kit and necessary medications
  • Flares
  • Flashlight and radio with extra batteries
  • Waterproof matches and candles
  • Blankets or sleeping bags

Take Action

As soon as you realize you cannot make it to safety on your own, contact the authorities. Then, call family and friends that are familiar with your route. Compass Insurance encourages you to stick with the recommendations of Ready.gov and stay in your vehicle. It acts as a temporary shelter. Start the engine and let it run for 5-10 minutes each hour to take the edge off the cold. Make sure the tail pipe is clear and crack a window to prevent carbon monoxide build-up. Leave your dome light on if it is dark so emergency responders can find you. The extra clothes and blankets in your emergency kit can help prevent hypothermia and be a key factor in you returning home safely to Centennial, CO. 

 

Home Insurance Considerations When You Are Renovating Your Home

Posted on by AgentInsure

Congratulations Are In Order!

Compass Insurance heartily congratulates you on your accomplishment. Serving Centennial CO and the surrounding areas, we understand the level of effort that goes into securing funds for home improvement currently. Whether you are renovating the home with funds you have saved over time or you have secured a home loan for the purpose of renovation, it is no easy feat.  

The value of your home will increase with a good renovation so the amount of your home insurance coverage protection should increase as well. Here is a short list of some major renovations that will increase the value of your home.

  • Adding a Brand New Kitchen – updating your kitchen with new appliances, flooring, windows or any other renovation will dramatically increase the value of your home. 
  • Adding an Extension or Converting Existing Non-Usable Space Into Living Space – If you are increasing the square footage of your home you are definitely adding real estate and real value to your home. This includes finishing basements with bedrooms and bathrooms and new living spaces. Some homeowners add rooms onto higher levels of their homes. 
  • Adding a deck or other types of outdoor living spaces. Using professionals and higher quality products when it comes to your home improvement projects will ensure you are getting the most value in your renovations. 

To maximize the new added value to your home most effectively contact your agent at Compass Insurance to discuss what projects you have in mind. Many homeowners that reside nearby in Centennial CO do not use the resource that they have in an agency just to pick up the phone or to stop in and discuss home insurance details and options. That is the advantage in having a professional in your corner.