Fall Safety & Insurance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

As the leaves change and temperatures cool, fall is the perfect time to prepare your home—and your insurance—for the months ahead. Whether you’re cozying up by the fireplace or welcoming trick-or-treaters, here are a few smart steps to keep your home safe and your coverage ready.

1. Fireplace & Heating Safety

Home fires increase during colder months. Before lighting that first fire, make sure your chimney is clean and inspected. Also check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Many homeowners policies cover fire damage, but prevention is always the best protection.

2. Halloween Liability Risks

Trick-or-treat night is fun, but it also brings more foot traffic to your property. Keep walkways clear, add lighting, and secure pets to prevent accidents. If something does happen, liability coverage on your homeowners policy can help protect you.

3. Storms & Roof Maintenance

Strong autumn storms can mean fallen branches, heavy rain, or even early ice. Now’s the time to inspect your roof and gutters. Taking small steps today can save big headaches later—and ensure a smoother claims process if damage occurs.

4. Auto Insurance & Shorter Days

With fewer daylight hours, accidents tend to increase in the fall. Make sure your auto insurance has the right liability and collision coverage to protect you and your family. Ask about bundling your home and auto for extra savings.

Final Tip: Reviewing your insurance every fall helps keep your coverage aligned with your lifestyle. If you’ve had big changes this year—like a new car, new home, or new driver in the family—now’s the perfect time to update your policies.

Contact Edwards Insurance Agency today for a free coverage review:

What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide

No one ever plans to be in a car accident, but knowing what to do immediately afterward can make a big difference — for your safety, your claim, and your peace of mind. At Edwards Insurance Agency, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s what to do if you find yourself in a collision:

1. Check for Injuries 

First and foremost, check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Your safety and health come first.

2. Move to a Safe Location 

If the accident is minor and your car is still drivable, move it to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

3. Call the Police 

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to call the police and get an official report. This report can be crucial when filing an insurance claim.

4. Exchange Information 

Gather key information from the other driver(s), including:

  • Full name and contact details
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license and license plate number
  • Make, model, and color of the vehicle
  • Location of the accident

5. Document the Scene 

Take clear photos of all vehicles involved, any damage, the surrounding area, and any relevant road signs or signals. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company 

Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all the information you’ve collected. Our team at Edwards Insurance is always available to help guide you through the process.

7. Seek Medical Attention 

Even if you feel fine, it’s wise to see a doctor. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable. A prompt medical evaluation can protect your health and strengthen your claim.

8. Keep Records 

Save all documents related to the accident, including the police report, medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with your insurance company.

9. Understand Your Coverage 

Review your insurance policy so you know what is covered and what to expect. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Edwards Insurance agent — we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Accidents can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. We are here to be your partner in protecting what matters most. If you have questions or need to file a claim, contact us today. We’re always ready to help!

Business 101: Essential Coverage Every Small Business Owner Needs

Running a small business is an exciting venture, but it also comes with risks. One unexpected event can lead to financial strain or even jeopardize the future of your business. That’s why having the right insurance coverage is crucial. While every quote is tailored to your business’s specific needs, there are few essential types of business insurance that every small business owner should consider.

General Liability Insurance

This is the most fundamental coverage every business needs. General liability insurance protects against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury (such as slander or libel). Whether a customer slips in your store or you accidentally damage a client’s property, this insurance helps cover legal fees and settlements.

Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions Insurance)

If your business provides professional services, this coverage is essential. Professional liability insurance protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or failure to deliver a promised service. This is especially important for consultants, lawyers, accountants, and healthcare providers.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Most states require businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs if an employee is injured on the job. It also protects business owners from potential lawsuits related to workplace injuries.

Commercial Property Insurance

If you own or lease physical space, commercial property insurance is a must. It covers damage to your building, equipment, inventory, and furniture due to fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Even home-based businesses should consider this coverage to protect business-related assets.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If your business uses vehicles for deliveries, client visits, or transporting equipment, commercial auto insurance is necessary. It covers damages resulting from accidents, theft, or vandalism involving business-owned vehicles.

Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)

A Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) combines several types of essential coverage into one comprehensive package at a lower cost. This is a great option for small businesses looking to simplify their coverage.

Investing in the right insurance coverage can mean the difference between a minor setback and a business-ending crisis. While every business has unique needs, these essential insurance policies provide a solid foundation for financial protection and peace of mind. Schedule a consultation with one of our agents at Edwards Insurance to customize a plan that fits your business’s specific risks and requirements. We’re always here to help!

How to Prepare Your Home for Natural Disasters: The Role of Home Insurance

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Home insurance can help you recover from a natural disaster by covering the cost of repairs and replacing your home and affected belongings. There are, however, some natural disasters that are typically not covered by standard home insurance policies such as floods and earthquakes. It is important to take steps to prepare for these situations and make the most of your home insurance when the need arises. 

Document Your Belongings

In the aftermath of a disaster, documenting your losses can be stressful. A detailed home inventory list can make the claims process smoother. Keep a record of your personal property, including copies of receipts, lists of valuable items with descriptions and estimated values, and appraisals of high-value possessions. It is recommended to keep this inventory list in a waterproof, fireproof safe as well as have digital copies that can be accessed in a cloud-based system.

Review Your Policy

Understanding and reviewing your policy regularly is crucial for financial preparedness. Different policies cover various types of damage and it’s essential to know what yours includes. In addition, if you’ve recently renovated or acquired something of value, you may need to make adjustments to your policy. If you have questions about your policy or need to make changes, contact your insurance broker to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs. 

Prepare Well and Stay Informed

It is always a good idea to have a disaster supplies kit on hand and easily accessible somewhere in your home. Include items like water, non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries. Natural disasters can sometimes strike with little warning and being proactive will help keep you and your family safe. It is also recommended to make sure you are signed up for local emergency alerts to receive real-time updates. Apps like FEMA, Red Cross, or local weather services can provide critical information during a disaster. 

How Home Insurance Protects You

While we always hope that a natural disaster will not affect our families, homes, and belongings, home insurance can act as a safety net in the case that it does. Remember, policies can vary widely. Review your policy carefully and ask your broker about any gaps in coverage. Here are a few ways that home insurance can help financially protect you:

  • Dwelling Coverage: Pays to repair or rebuild your home after covered damages.
  • Personal Property Coverage: Covers belongings damaged or destroyed by covered perils.
  • Additional Living Expenses (ALE): Pays for temporary housing and related expenses if your home is uninhabitable.
  • Liability Coverage: Protects you financially if someone is injured on your property during a disaster.

Natural disasters are unpredictable, but with preparation and the right home insurance coverage, you can safeguard your home and your financial well-being. By understanding your insurance policy and having a solid emergency plan, you’ll be better equipped to weather any storm.

If you’re unsure what your current policy covers or if you have any other questions, reach out to us. As your home insurance broker, we’re here to help you navigate your options and ensure you have the coverage you need!