If you’re shopping for a new car in 2020, you’ve got options – lots of ‘em. So how do you make the right choice?

Good news: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is here to help with their latest TOP SAFETY PICK awards.

The IIHS, a nonprofit research and education organization, conducts crash tests to determine which vehicles do the best job of protecting people in the most common kinds of crashes — front, side, rollover and rear. They also evaluate other elements of vehicle safety, such as headlight ratings (which started in 2016) and crash avoidance technology.

In the annual TOP SAFETY PICK awards, the IIHS announces which new models performed best in their evaluations. The winners are organized into 13 size categories, from minicars to large pickups.

IIHS TOP SAFETY PICKS: WHAT’S NEW FOR 2020?

Just about every year, it gets a little tougher to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. Why? The IIHS intentionally raises its standards as better technology and testing protocols become available.

Here’s what’s different in 2020:

• Headlights: Good or acceptable headlights need to be standard equipment for vehicles earning the highest-tier TOP SAFETY PICK+ award. (For the lower-tier TOP SAFETY PICK award, the criteria remain the same as 2019: good or acceptable headlights need to be available, but not necessarily come standard.)
• Pedestrian crash prevention: Both TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ winners need to have an available automatic emergency braking system that earns an“advanced” or “superior” rating in front crash prevention for vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations, as well as vehicle-to-vehicle crashes. (Previously, only the vehicle-to-vehicle rating was required.)
• Crashworthiness: Of course, all award winners need strong performance in all six IIHS crash tests. New for 2020 is a higher standard of “good” in the passenger-side small overlap front test. (In 2019, the lower “acceptable” rating was sufficient to win an award.)

For more details on how IIHS crash tests work (and what they look for), visit the safety ratings page on the IIHS website.

THE 2020 TOP SAFETY PICK+ WINNERS

This year, a total of 64 cars and SUVs achieved TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ status. Of those winners, 23 qualified for the top-tier “plus” award.

Mazda earned five TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards, the most among automakers, for the Mazda 3 sedan, Mazda 3 hatchback, Mazda 6, CX-3 and CX-5. In the TOP SAFETY PICK category, Mazda picked up one more award for the CX-9.

Hyundai Motor Group — which includes the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands — had the most winners overall. A total of 14 Hyundai vehicles earned a TOP SAFETY PICK award, and three more earned TOP SAFETY PICK+.

For the full list of 2020 winners and ratings, visit iihs.org/ratings.

INSURANCE FOR NEW AND USED CARS

When you’re car shopping, it’s a good time to reevaluate your insurance, too. Learn more about auto insurance from ERIE or read these related stories from our blog:

• What Determines the Price of My Auto Insurance?
• What’s Cheaper: Insuring Old Cars or New Cars?
• Do I Have Insurance When I Drive My New Car Off the Lot?
• What to Know Before Trading In Your Car

At ERIE, we’re eager to help you find coverage that’s the right fit for your pride and joy. Talk to your local ERIE agent to get the conversation started.

The post IIHS: The Safest Cars of 2020 appeared first on Twin City Group.

Winter is officially here. For parents, that means finding new and different ways to keep the family entertained – especially when colder temperatures force you to spend more time indoors.

There are plenty of reasons to play outside with your kids, even in the winter months. But sometimes, the limited daylight and unpredictable weather makes it necessary to pass the time inside.

Luckily, playing inside doesn’t have to mean resorting to video games or movies. Here are some fun ways to bring outdoor activities inside this winter.

7 Indoor Winter Activities for Families

1. Create a scavenger hunt. The challenge of searching for hidden treasure is often relegated to the backyard. But there’s no reason you can’t grab some items to tuck away around your home instead. Create a list of clues or riddles to help your kids during their search. A hidden stash of candy or a new toy can serve as a great incentive for completing the hunt.
   
   
2. Picnic in your living room. Push your furniture aside and spread out your picnic blanket across the floor. Enjoy an indoor twist on the classic summer picnic with one of these creative dinner options, and consider asking your child to help with the cooking. Then, share a meal just like you would on a warm, sunny day.
   
   
3. Camp out indoors. Put up a tent in the living room or basement for a simulated night under the stars. Have your kids grab their sleeping bags, pillows and blankets for a campsite-inspired sleepover. You can even light the fireplace if you have one (just be sure to follow these home heating safety tips). Climb inside the tent, share some campfire stories and enjoy a slumber party they’ll talk about all winter long.
   
   
4. Cook campfire food. Instead of starting a bonfire in your backyard, roast some marshmallows on skewers over your stovetop. Keep a close eye on kiddos around the open flame, or opt for flameless microwave s’mores instead. Grab some graham crackers and chocolate, and enjoy s’mores with your kids in your indoor tent.
   
   
5. Play hide and seek. Some games, like hide and seek, remain timeless classics. Sneak into a closet or behind a bed as your child counts to 10 inside. Ready or not, here they come!
   
   
6. Play volleyball with a balloon. Clear some space in your living room – you’ll need all the room you can get. Blow up a balloon and divide into two teams. Then, practice hitting the balloon back and forth without letting it touch the ground.
   
   
7. Plant an indoor garden. Find some plants from your local garden center to test out your green thumb. Have your kids help you water and nurture them regularly. And be sure to consider these tips to pick your perfect houseplant.

Thinking outside the box can go a long way in helping you beat cabin fever. No matter what weather this winter brings, Erie Insurance will be there to help keep your home protected. Contact an agent in your neighborhood to learn about homeowners insurance from ERIE.

The post 7 Fun Ways You Can Bring The Outdoors Inside This Winter appeared first on Twin City Group.

Whether it’s an incoming polar vortex or just an extended cold snap, extreme cold temperatures can chill you to the bone. And as the thermometer outside continues to drop, it’s not just important to stay warm – you need to stay safe, too.

Having the right homeowners insurance and auto insurance can give you peace of mind. But so can knowing what to do when below-zero temperatures hit.

So follow these tips to ensure you and your family stay safe during the harsh winter weather.

Polar Vortex and Extreme Cold Safety Tips

1. Only travel if you have to. In extreme cold, you shouldn’t travel unless it’s absolutely necessary. Staying inside will reduce your chance of getting frostbite or risking uncertain road conditions. If you do need to leave the house, be sure to brush up on best practices for winter driving safety. If you drive, make sure you have a flashlight with fresh batteries and a full tank of gas. Carry extra blankets, clothes and a well-stocked car emergency kit with food and water in case you get stuck or stranded. Taking public transportation? Keep moving around to stay warm at the stop while you wait.
2. Dress warmly. If you have to leave the house, wear several layers of loose-fitting clothes. The air trapped between each sweater or coat can retain your body heat and help keep you warm. It also helps to wear clothing that’s made of wool, which can hold in more heat than an item made from cotton. A synthetic fabric like polypropylene can also wick moisture away and hold heat.
   
3. Protect your extremities. Keep your earlobes, fingers, toes and the tip of your nose covered when you go outside. These areas have the highest risk for frostbite if they aren’t properly protected. To keep your fingers warmer, opt for mittens instead of gloves.
4. Don’t push yourself too hard. There may be a lot of snow to move outside, but only shovel if you have to. That’s because vigorous exercise in cold weather can put extra strain on your heart. Make sure you follow your doctor’s advice on working outdoors, especially if you have high blood pressure or heart disease. Read more tips for how to safely shovel snow.
   
5. Take it easy on ice. If you venture outside, watch out for ice – which can cause you (or others) to slip and fall. Rock salt loses its effectiveness below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, so use ice melt on surfaces like sidewalks, stairs and driveways. You can also spread sand on your walkways to provide a little more traction. If you’re on the move, go slow and take short steps or shuffle for stability. You can also try a slip-on winter traction device over your shoes.
6. Know the signs of frozen pipes (and how to stop them). Your pipes are more susceptible to freezing and bursting in extreme cold. This can cause messy (and expensive) water damage to your home. To reduce the chance of damage, let cold water drip from your faucets and open the cabinets below your sinks. Add some extra protection by covering your pipes with insulation. Get more tips in this related story on preventing frozen pipes.
7. Watch over babies, pets and the elderly. Babies have a harder time maintaining their body temperature than adults, so it’s best to keep them bundled up and away from extreme cold. It’s more difficult for the elderly to regulate their temperature, too. So check in with your older neighbors and family members to make sure they’re staying warm. And don’t forget about protecting your pets in these frigid temperatures.

Planning is smart. But just like the weather, life is rarely predictable. For whatever’s in store, Erie Insurance is with you on the journey. To learn how we can help protect you and your family, talk to your local ERIE agent.

The post 7 Tips for Staying Safe During Extreme Cold Weather appeared first on Twin City Group.

Laundry is part of life’s weekly grind. But did you know that dryers cause roughly 15,500 home structure fires, 29 deaths, 400 injuries and $192 million in direct property loss each year? What’s more, most dryer fires happen in the winter.

What can cause a dryer fire?

The most common cause of dryer fires is failure to do a thorough cleaning. Because a lint trap is not a foolproof method for catching all the fuzzy stuff from clothes, lint can gradually build up and catch fire in the heating element or exhaust duct.

Further compounding the problem is the fact that many people now install dryers outside of their basements. This typically results in dryer vent pipes being much longer. Those longer vent pipes have a greater likelihood of being twisted and turned to accommodate the structure of the home—and that creates spaces for lint to collect.

What could happen if my dryer catches on fire?

Kevin Sippy, an insurance adjuster in ERIE’s Wisconsin Branch, inspects about five dryer fires every year. One particularly bad one happened when a customer laundered an item containing a type of rubber not meant to be dried at a hot temperature. When she turned the dryer to high, the material combusted and caused a blaze that destroyed $44,000 worth of property.

VIDEO: Watch how quickly a dryer fire can spread

In another instance, a customer suffered $200,000 of property damage from a fire that started after she took her laundry out of the dryer. That customer washed towels that had been soaked in a sizable amount of sanitizing solution. She then placed the towels, which still had traces of the sanitizing solution, in the dryer. When the towels dried, they ended up spontaneously combusting and causing a fire that burned through an entire floor.

“We literally had to gut the house,” says Sippy, who changed his own laundry habits after that fire. “Now, I never dry anything higher than the low setting—I’d rather take a little longer to dry my clothes than burn my house down.”

9 tips to prevent dryer fires

1. Clean out the lint. “It starts with cleaning out the lint filter every time you use the dryer.” says John Hall, Ph.D., division director of fire Analysis & Research for the National Fire Protection Association. He also advises clearing out the vent pipe to reduce the chance of fire and to maintain the efficiency of the dryer.

2. Install with care. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing the vent pipe. Use a short, straight pipe that’s an adequate distance from the wall. By reducing the bends in the dryer vent pipe, it creates fewer opportunities for lint to gather. If you have to vent your dryer over a long distance, consider investing in a dryer vent fan. These automatic electric devices speed up airflow through the duct every time you turn on your dryer to keep things moving along. A dryer vent fan should be installed by a licensed electrician.

3. Clear out combustibles. Move any flammables like cleaning supplies far away from your dryer. Also regularly sweep out dust in the areas around and underneath your dryer.

4. Opt for a solid metal dryer duct. Research shows that flexible foil or plastic ducts can sag and lead to lint buildup at low points. Metal ducts of any variety don’t sag, and they’re more likely to contain any fires that would start.

5. Read tags. If the care label reads tumble dry low, don’t turn the dryer up to high. Also use caution with certain items like bath mats, padded bras and bibs—they may contain rubber that shouldn’t be exposed to hot temperatures.

6. Exercise extra caution with flammable liquids. Wash clothing stained with volatile chemicals more than once—and definitely opt to line dry over machine dry.

7. Use your clothes to diagnose problems. Clothes that no longer feel dry or that are extra hot to the touch after a normal dry cycle are a telltale sign that something’s wrong. Before doing the next load, check for a plugged vent and clean out any lint.

8. Don’t dry and dash. Turn off your dryer if you need to step out during the laundry cycle.

9.Give the outdoor vent a peek. Make sure that the outdoor vent flap isn’t covered by snow or debris.

Another way you can protect your home is with the right homeowners insurance. Talk with an insurance professional like an Erie Insurance agent to learn more and get a free quote.

This story was originally published in 2013. It was updated with new information on Jan. 13, 2020.

The post How to Prevent a Dryer Fire appeared first on Twin City Group.

What homebuyers look for in the perfect kitchen has evolved over the years. And as our personal collections of appliances, utensils and ingredients grow, pantry storage has made its way to the top of the list.

Our recent national survey found that a walk-in pantry was the most common feature homeowners regretted not getting in their last home purchase – with just under a third (30%) saying they wish they had one.

Luckily, there’s a cure to pantry envy: adding practical kitchen storage of your very own.

Whether you’re ready to convert a closet or install new shelving, here are some food storage secrets to help put your dream pantry within reach.

How to Create a New Pantry Space

Just because your home lacks a built-in pantry doesn’t mean you have to settle for less storage. With a few handy tricks and a little renovation, even the smallest kitchens can accommodate more pantry space:

• Convert closets or nooks. Does your kitchen have a small corner nook or a double-wide closet? Consider ditching the coat rack and replace it with shelves and bins. Relocating your previously stored items to a hall closet could be well worth the extra kitchen storage it frees up.
  
• Look behind your wall. Creating more kitchen storage can be difficult if you’re tight on space. But your solution for a pantry may be hiding behind your walls. A quick search online will reveal plenty of inspiration for recessed shelving that can be built between your studs. All it takes is cutting out the drywall and framing in some shallow cabinets. Hang a few doors and you’ll have a place to store cans, spices and more – no floor space required.(Of course, if you’re not an experienced DIY-er, this job might be better left to a pro. No one wants to accidentally demo a load-bearing wall, so make sure you know your stuff before you tackle this one.)
• Repurpose a bookshelf. Move an old bookcase to the kitchen or buy a cheap one from a second-hand store. Give it a paint job to match your color scheme and customize it to hold your food or small appliances.
  
• Hang more shelves. When it comes to kitchen design, open shelves are back in style. So why not make your kitchen the walk-in pantry? Add new shelves to your backsplash and walls, and stack them as high as you’d like. Every item will be within reach and you’ll utilize what was once unused space.

How to Upgrade Your Kitchen Storage

Whether you already have the walk-in pantry of your dreams, or are adding new storage with one of the projects above, there are plenty of ways to improve the style and function of your pantry space.

Looking to transform your pantry into the photo-worthy kitchen upgrade you envisioned? Here are a few tips and kitchen storage ideas to get started:

• Use the door. The door of a pantry often contains a lot of unused space. Add hooks, racks or pockets to the back of your door to hold anything from kitchen utensils to spices.
  
• Adjust your shelves. Shelves are typically spaced uniformly. But the items you’re storing aren’t all the same size. Try varying the distance between your shelves so items can be organized based on how much space they take up.
  
• Install pull-out shelves. Deep shelves can make it hard to reach items in your pantry or cabinet. Replacing them with pull-out shelves can help you avoid going elbow-deep when searching for ingredients.
  
• Think in a U-shape. The key to a walk-in pantry is visibility. Complete the walk-in feel and install shelves in a U-shape so you can turn and access everything from the center.
  
• Add lighting. Lights will make frequent trips to the cabinet easier on the eyes. Install a brighter bulb in your walk-in pantry or attach battery-operated lights to your shelving to help you find what you’re looking for.
  
• Think in layers. How you organize your food is just as important as the shelves you put it on. Place small items in front and large items in the back. This way, items won’t get lost behind each other.
• Utilize technology. Whether you’re looking for advice or inspiration, there’s no shortage of websites and mobile apps to help. Use a kitchen design tool to plan out your space, and apps like Photo Measures or iHandy Carpenter for measurements. For more DIY ideas, check out YouTube or Pinterest.

Take care of your project

Whether you add some shelves or take on a complete kitchen renovation, your project is unique to you. At Erie Insurance, our policies are designed to protect what matters most. You do you, and we’ll take it from there.

Contact your local ERIE agentto make sure your home – and that new pantry – is protected with homeowners insurance from ERIE.

The post Wishing For a Walk-In Pantry? Try These DIY Ideas appeared first on Twin City Group.

Houseplants offer a quick, easy way to add a splash of color to your home decor. And they’ve been proven to help purify the air inside your house, too. But have you ever bought a beautiful plant from a local greenhouse, only to watch it shrivel up a few weeks later?

If so, you know there’s a lot more to consider than how a flower, cactus or palm might look in your house. For a plant to grow and thrive in your home, it needs to be a good match for your space.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for your next houseplant:

• Space: If you live in a small apartment or have low ceilings, a large plant like a palm might not be your best option. Experts recommend you allow at least 6 inches of breathing room around your houseplants. So think twice before squeezing a plant between two pieces of furniture.
  
• Size: Before choosing a plant, consider where it’s going to live in your home. Plants less than 2 feet tall are ideal for spaces like a windowsill or table, while taller plants work best on your floor.
  
• Lighting: Most houseplants need natural light to grow. But the type of light (direct, indirect or low) will vary by species. For best results, match your plant’s lighting needs with a room in your home that supplies the correct amount of light. And consider placing plants in rooms facing south, east or west in your home.
• Temperature: Some plants are more sensitive to temperature changes than others. Consistent temperatures during spring and summer months make it an ideal time for plants to be nurtured. But fall and winter can bring cold snaps that will damage plants – especially in areas that are not always heated, like porches and sunrooms.
  
• Style: Allow the plants you buy to reflect your decorating taste. There are plenty of options available, from plants producing lush greenery to bright flowers. And you can add more of your own personal style with a ceramic or copper pot.
  
• Pets and children: Be aware that some plants, like lilies and ivy, can be toxic if touched or eaten. Exposure could cause your pets to become seriously ill or irritate your child’s skin.

Find the Perfect Fit

Now that you know the basics of choosing the perfect houseplant, here are some you may want to consider for your space:

• Plants that don’t need much light: Looking for a houseplant to grow in a basement or windowless room? Consider plants like the pothos, heart-leaf philodendrons, arrowhead vines, cast iron plants and dieffenbachia – all of which can grow in low light conditions.
• Plants that don’t need much water: Need a hearty plant that can withstand a little neglect? No judgement. Good choices include succulents, ZZ plants, snake plants or Chinese evergreens.
  
• Plants that can help with dry skin: Tired of dry skin in the winter months? Consider a natural alternative to expensive creams and lotions. Spider plants, rubber plants, peace lilies and English ivy can all help balance moisture in the air.
  
• Plants that add a splash of color: Mosaic plants, dragon trees and polka dot plants can help you break away from plain-old green.

If you’re looking for expert advice on protecting your plants, talk to a florist or a professional at your local garden center. And if you have any questions about protecting your home, contact yourlocal Erie Insurance agent. Our agents know the ins and outs of homeowners insurance and can help you find the right coverage.

The post How to Pick the Perfect Houseplant appeared first on Twin City Group.

As the year winds down, people will be making New Year’s resolutions—and lots of them. This year, many Americans will make a New Year’s resolution to get fit, stop smoking, learn French, stress less and onward and so on. 

And yet…

Anyone who has witnessed a crowded January gym slow to a trickle by February knows that many resolutions just don’t stick. Some studies have reported that as few as 8 percent of people actually succeed in keeping their resolution.

So, how can you be among the few who see their promise through? Here are a few ideas to make it go right.

Tips for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolution

• Make a mini resolution. Who says you have to run a marathon or model your home after Martha Stewart’s? There’s nothing wrong with making less ambitious, but more achievable, goals like running a 5K or organizing your most out-of-control closet.
  
  
• Be specific. Lots of people fail because they make resolutions that are too general or too difficult to measure. Examples include “get healthy” or “spend more time with my spouse.” Instead, vow to “Walk an extra 20 minutes every day” or “Schedule a weekly date night with my spouse.”
  
  Related: 5 Quick Ways to Make Your Home Safer This Year 

• Plan, plan, plan. Maybe you have a big goal like “start a business.” If so, you’ll have more success if you plot out the many steps it takes to make it a reality. Buy a goal-setting journal or download an app to break down your plan by month, week and day. (And if you do want to start that business this year, learn more about business insurance – it’s essential for protecting your investment of time and money.)
  
  Related: A Simple Guide to Business Insurance for Startups and New Businesses
  
  
• Take it public. Some people feel that they’re more likely to keep a New Year’s resolution when they tell others. Still, others prefer to keep it private – and that’s OK! If you’ve been keeping your resolution to yourself the past few years but haven’t seen results… consider giving this strategy a try.
  
  
• Find a buddy. A friend who shares your New Year’s resolutions can provide a massive dose of motivation.
  
  

More Advice for the New Year

Want to take a different approach? Then you might consider some unconventional methods to your resolution.

• Consider a disincentive. On Stickk.com, you can have your credit card charged each time you fall short of your goal. You can direct the money to go anywhere — but you might consider sending it to an organization you detest. (Two ideas include a political party you’d never support or a university that’s the arch rival of the one you attended.)
  
  
• Make a resolution to enjoy and protect what you already have. Perhaps you recently invested in something big, like a new home or a renovation project. If so, take the time to enjoy what you already have before thinking ahead to the next thing you need or want.

That’s where it helps to have the right insurance. After all, insurance is designed to protect the things you’ve worked hard to achieve and that matter most to you.

At Erie Insurance, we have a genuine enthusiasm for our customer’s successes. Whether you’re renovating your home, starting a family or changing direction in life, we’re eager to offer our encouragement and expertise.

See what makes our home insurance different or find a local ERIE agent in your neighborhood who can give you a customized quote.

This story was originally published in 2013. It was updated with new information on Jan. 2, 2020.

The post 7 Tips to Help Your New Year’s Resolution Stick appeared first on Twin City Group.

As the new year approaches, there are plenty of ways to celebrate. You can watch the ball drop with your family, host a gathering with friends or even count down until midnight at a public party.

But whether you’re ringing in the new year at home or spending a night out on the town, safety should always be a top priority. Here are a few tips to help you party responsibly, no matter where you celebrate.

Staying in:

On New Year’s Eve, you don’t have to leave your house to have a great time. If you’re hosting guests, here are some ways to ensure everyone can kick off the new year in style:

• Consider your liquor liability. There’s nothing like ringing in the new year with a glass of champagne. But if you plan to serve alcohol, be a responsible host by making sure nobody gets behind the wheel of a car. Drunk driving is a serious risk to your guests and others on the road. And in many states, you could be held liable for damage caused by a driver who leaves your party. Learn more about liquor liability and how to be a smart host.
• Plan your activities. To keep your party running smoothly, have a list of games or activities that don’t involve alcohol. Playing games can be a great way to break the ice and are fun for guests of all ages.

  Related: 10 Tips to Host a Holiday Party (Without Stressing Out) 

• Serve plenty of food. If you’re staying up until midnight, expect lots of snacking to take place throughout the evening. A well-stocked menu of food and non-alcoholic drinks will not only keep your guests happy. It can also help counter the effects of the alcohol.
• Keep your guest list tight. When hosting a party in your home, it’s always a good idea to limit guests to people you actually know. Strangers may be less likely to respect your property, and it will be more difficult to confront them if they overindulge.
• Designate a driver. Encourage your guests to choose a designated driver before they arrive. Whether a friend is driving, or they choose to use Uber or Lyft, advanced planning will ensure no one decides to get behind the wheel. Get more ideas on how to find a DD.
• Shelve the fireworks. Avoid the temptation to start the new year off with a “bang.” Fireworks can lead to house fires and injuries – and they never mix well with alcohol.

Going out:

Chances are, there will be no shortage of New Year’s Eve parties around your city. If you choose to spend the night away from home, here are some tips to help you get back safely:

• Designate a driver. If you’re planning to celebrate with alcohol, decide how you’ll be getting home before your first drink. There are plenty of ways to find a designated driver, whether you call a cab, use a ridesharing service or choose a friend to take you home.
• Celebrate with friends. There’s safety in numbers. If you’re partying with friends, have a conversation about looking out for each other before the night begins.
• Charge your phone. Before you head out for a night on the town, make sure your phone is fully charged. Getting stuck with a dead battery will make it difficult to reconnect with friends or hail a ride home, if needed.
• Eat before you leave. Not planning to go out for a full meal? Be sure to eat before you leave. Besides ensuring you won’t go hungry, a full stomach can help slow the absorption of alcohol.
• Don’t leave your car overnight. If you’re not driving home, it’s probably wise to leave your car in the driveway – and don’t forget to lock the doors. Unfortunately, criminals don’t take a holiday. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, New Year’s Day is the top holiday for car thefts! 

No matter how you celebrate… the new year is a time to reflect on your successes of the past and your hopes for the future. At Erie Insurance, we’re here to protect all that matters most so you can relax and enjoy life.  

With ERIE, you get outstanding coverage, great rates and service from local people who care. Find a local ERIE agent

in your neighborhood or learn more about homeowners insurance.

The post 11 Tips for a Safe and Fun New Year’s Eve appeared first on Twin City Group.

The holidays are an exciting time for get-togethers, gifts and delicious food. While most people are up for the festivities your pet might feel differently. Extra noise and visitors can leave pets feeling stressed. Food and decorations can present hazards, too.

Here’s what to you need to know to keep pets safe this holiday season.

Food

It’s easy to give in to the begging eyes of your four-legged companion. However, it’s important to know what is and isn’t safe for them to eat. For specific questions, check with an expert like your local veterinarian or a resource like the Pet Poison Helpline. Keep phone numbers handy for your vet and the local emergency vet, too – especially if you’re traveling. Generally speaking, here’s a list of what foods to avoid giving your pet:

• Say no to sweets. We’ve all heard that dark chocolate is dangerous for dogs, however, bread dough and cookie batter are just as dangerous. Dough can actually rise in your pet’s stomach, casing bloating and severe pain. Plus, just like their owners, pets can get salmonella poisoning from raw eggs in cookie batter or an upset stomach from too much sugar
• Avoid bones and fatty skin. Bones can get stuck in their intestines if they are brittle, such as those from turkey or chicken. On that note, make sure you dispose of bones carefully, just in case a sensitive nose goes sniffing where it shouldn’t. Fatty skin from a turkey is also a no-no. The skin is full of fatty juices and butter, and can be difficult for your pet to digest. High-fat foods can also lead to pancreatitis. A little white meat, free of seasonings, is usually OK as a special treat.
• Keep an eye on your cocktail. While we know pets shouldn’t consume anything other than water, you may find your pet taking a sip or two from an unattended glass, filled with an adult beverage. While dogs love the smell of beer, the hops in beer are toxic to a dog’s system.
• Spice is not so nice. on your pet’s digestive system, that is. Sage is a popular seasoning used on poultry. While it’s delicious for pet owners, it can cause pets to have upset stomachs or even more serious digestive trouble. Heavily salted foods, such as ham or other cured meats, can pose problems, too. Nutmeg is another culprit that can wreak havoc on your pet. The popular spice used in pumpkin pie can cause seizures and central nervous system problems if your pet digests it. Pumpkin on its own is a safe treat for pets. Just avoid anything that is seasoned with nutmeg.
• Other foods to avoid: Many holiday foods can be toxic to pets, including onions, garlic, raisins, grapes and the artificial sweetener xylitol. For other foods to avoid, check out this list of harmful foods for pets from the Humane Society of the United States or ask your veterinarian for a handout.

Decorations

Sparkly decorations can pique your pet’s curiosity this time of year. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re setting up and displaying your holiday décor: 

• Trim your tree with care. Cats might see your Christmas tree as the ultimate climbing tower. Make sure your tree is securely anchored to avoid a serious fall. If you have a real tree, it’s important to keep pets away from the tree water. Tree water can be a breeding ground for bacteria. If you use plant food in your water, it could even be toxic. There are many recipes online for creating your own non-toxic tree food to keep your tree lasting throughout the holiday season.
• Be cautious with tinsel. Tinsel’s shiny appearance is a magnet for inquisitive cats. However, if ingested, the tinsel can wrap around the intestines or get balled up in the stomach causing severe pain and (expensive) surgical removal.
• Ornaments are not toys. Glass ornaments can cut your pet’s mouth or digestive system if swallowed, or damage their paws if stepped on. Homemade salt ornaments, while fun to make, can be fatal to a pet because of the high amount of salt at one time.
• Be bright about lights... Lights are everywhere during the holidays—indoors and out. Try to keep electrical cords out of the reach of pets. Inquiring minds could confuse lights as a new chew toy and end up with a shocking surprise. Get more tips for safely decorating with lights at the holidays.
• … and careful with candles.  Our pets aren’t as careful around candles as we are. Make sure they’re out of reach of paws and tails. Better yet, choose a flameless battery option that you can “light” without worry. Read more in our 10 Commandments of Candle Safety.

Holiday Plants

Holiday plants are often purchased or given to enhance a home’s décor during this festive time of year. Here are three popular holiday plants that can be dangerous to pets. 

• Poinsettia: Actually, this popular Christmas plant isn’t as dangerous for pets as people think – but it can still make pets sick. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, poinsettias have milky white sap that when ingested can cause skin irritation, drooling and gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting. There is a low level of toxicity if a poinsettia is ingested.
• Holly: Your pet will be feeling anything but jolly if they ingest a holly berry or leaf. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea could occur almost immediately after your furry friend takes a bite.
• Mistletoe:  If ingested, mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems in pets.

Your best bet? Purchase silk or plastic versions of these popular holiday plants to avoid any unwanted trips to the pet emergency room.

Travel and Entertaining

It’s great to include your pets in family celebrations, holiday parties and holiday road trips. Keep these considerations in mind when you involve your pets in your holiday traditions.

• Noise and crowds: If you’re entertaining, consider establishing a quiet place (like a spare bedroom) for a shy or tired pet to get some rest. Keep an eye on small children around your pets, too. Even a well-behaved dog can bite if anxious or stressed. Finally, be a courteous host – ask ahead of time if your guests have any allergies or anxiety around animals so you can plan ahead. Learn to spot the signs of an anxious dog and prevent dog bites.
• Traveling with pets: Pack their belongings in advance and know what to look for in a pet carrier or car harness. Get more tips for keeping pets safe in the car.
• Keeping pets warm:  Consider dressing dogs in sweaters or coats (gift idea, perhaps?) to keep them warm, or use booties to protect paws from snow and salt. Use pet-friendly salt when you can to prevent salt burn on tender paws. If your pet loves to be outside, make sure they have adequate shelter and a UL approved water bowl to keep water from freezing. Finally, keep your pet’s age in mind. Just as humans are more sensitive to the elements as we grow older, so are our pets.

Home is where memories are made

At the holidays and all throughout the year, our pets have special places in our hearts. Being greeted by that warm, wet nose is just one of those things that makes a house a home.

Make sure your home is protected with homeowners insurance you can trust. See what makes ERIE different or find a local insurance agent near you.

The post Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Holiday Season appeared first on Twin City Group.

Memories stay with you for life. But old tapes and film reels aren’t designed to hold them for nearly as long.

It’s true that film, VHS tapes and DVDs can preserve your home movies for years (or decades) in the right environment. But even if they’re stored in a cool, dry place, the materials can deteriorate – leaving your memories irretrievable.

Thanks to modern technology, that dusty box in the basement can be digitized and kept for future generations to enjoy. You don’t have to be a computer whiz to do it, and your family will thank you for keeping those memories alive and well for years to come.

Check out these methods for preserving your old home movies:

1. Use a DVD recorder. One of the easiest ways to preserve old tapes is by transferring them to DVD. All you need to do is purchase a DVD recorder and connect it to a tape player. As video cameras evolved over the years, many tape formats emerged: Betacam, VHS, Hi8, VHS-C and Mini-DV, to name a few. So make sure you have the right player(s) for your tape collection. As you play back your old tapes, you can record them onto a blank DVD disc. And if you’d like to digitize your video, you can import the DVD to your computer using a video ripper. Another note: DVD recorders are getting harder to find new. But you can probably find a used piece of equipment on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or eBay at a much lower cost.
2. Directly convert from film to video. If you’re looking at stacks of 8mm film, a film-to-video converter might be the tool for you. Just load your reels into the machine and let the footage copy directly to a digital memory card. The right equipment can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000. But it’s worth the investment to preserve those priceless memories if you have a large collection of reels.
   
3. Connect to a computer. Buy an analog video-capture device to load home movies directly into your computer. These devices allow you to connect a tape player to one side, and plug into your computer’s USB port with the other. Once you’ve downloaded the right software (which should come with your adapter), you can convert your tapes into digital files to store or burn onto DVDs. A video-capture device could cost as little as $20. But be prepared to navigate the software, which can sometimes get complicated.
4. Record it again. What better place to preserve your memories than in a home theater? Project your movie onto a projection screen or clean sheet, bring the image in full view of another video camera and hit record. Then, upload your recording to a computer and save a new digital copy. If you have a projector for those old film reels, this process requires no investment. Just keep in mind that it’s more fun than effective, as it won’t result in a high-quality image.
5. Hire a service. Like many projects, sometimes it’s best to trust a professional. Large retailers, local photo or video shops and even online services such as iMemories and Legacybox offer these services. Expect to pay based on the type and amount of tape or film you need converted. These services can be expensive, but the convenience can’t be beat. And you’ll avoid investing money in expensive equipment you may not use often. 

Protect your memories

Preserving your home videos is just part of protecting what you value most. After all, home is where your memories are made – and we understand the work that goes into caring for it.

At Erie Insurance, our pledge is to protect your house and the work you’ve done to make it a home with homeowners insurance you can trust. That way, you and your family can continue to make memories on- and off-camera.

Talk to your local ERIE agent to see how we can help cover what matters to you.

The post 5 Ways to Digitize Your Old Home Movies appeared first on Twin City Group.