Independence Day & Insurance: Claims to avoid this holiday
Family? Check…
Grilled Meats? Check…
Fireworks? Check…
Insurance claims? Huh..?
While there is much fun to be had over the holiday weekend, 4th of July is considered one of the most dangerous holidays in the United States. As crazy as it sounds, it’s not because someone ate too much mustard on their hot dog, but due to many different factors that we will discuss here. As we ramp up for another Independence Day weekend (especially the Monday off from work!), we need to look at some hazards that could put a damper on the celebration. We are thankful that we were not in the same predicament as last year. Y’know what we mean!
Fire & Grillin’
The main culprit of many insurance claims is fire related. Since there’s so much heat during 4th of July, it is all too common to hear about raging fires due to grilling accidents. Nobody ever plans to cause a fire but sometimes it can happen. Whether grease is the fire starter or adding too much lighter fluid to the coals, fires are always something to keep in mind. Its best to let your family’s grill master oversee the fire.
Unsupervised Fireworks
This is a huge problem during the holiday weekend. When lighting up fireworks, be cautious which direction they will be going. Fireworks that are unsupervised may lead to excessive damage to a house or lawn, which will be costly when the repair bill comes. It’s best to have kids and adults light fireworks together and share the celebration all around.
Your Personal Liability
If you are the host of a major party or part of a block party, always be aware of how many people may be entering your property. There is always a lot going on when it comes to inviting others to your home, and accidents can happen. From slip and falls to general confrontation of others due to miscommunication, it is always recommended to keep an eye out for this type of stuff when you open your home to visitors.
Waves & Rain
In Northwest Florida, we expect our rainy season and hurricane season to compete with our boating season. It doesn’t surprise us that this holiday weekend may get a downpour. Tropical Storm Claudette gave us something to think about. As some of us get our boats ready to have a few days out in The Gulf or The Choctawhatchee Bay, make sure to be careful out there. Always check weather advisories and make sure your vessel can handle some choppiness. If things look a little crazy, then please be safe and celebrate at home.
On the opposite end, if you plan on being at the beach, always remember to check the flags as they correspond with the current weather conditions. Even if it’s clear for one hour, our state likes to shake things up with a torrential thunderstorm at random!
Green Flag – Low Hazard
Calm surf and currents. Swim with usual caution.
Yellow Flag – Medium Hazard
Moderate surf and/or currents. Swim with extra caution.
Red Flag – High Hazard (NO SWIMMING)
High surf and/or dangerous currents. No swimming or wading in the Gulf of Mexico.
Double Red Flag – (WATER/BEACH CLOSED)
Only used during hurricanes and other natural disasters. No swimming, wading, or surfing in the Gulf of Mexico.
Purple Flag – Dangerous Marine Life
Flown when jellyfish, Portuguese man o’ war, etc. are present. Exercise caution when in the water and/or along the shoreline.
Above all, we wish you a wonderful Independence Day! As we celebrate our country’s birthday, it is always great to be safe. Now get out there and enjoy!
As always, please let our licensed Agents know how we can assist you with your Florida insurance needs. Call us at 850.244.2111, email at service@harrisinsurance.com, or request your quote here.
Please note: Our offices will be closed on Monday, July 5th. We will be open for regular business hours on Tuesday, July 6th.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
