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Claudia McClain is the founder and president of McClain Insurance Services.
"I am passionate about insurance and about finding the right protection plan for my clients. Insurance is not just a commodity, it is a way to help folks protect what's important to them, now and in the future. I feel blessed to be able to help my clients with customized protection plans that can adapt to different insurance needs throughout the various stages of life.”
How Secure Is YOUR Cell Phone?
25
May
2012
2012
Earlier this year, the number of smartphone users in the US passed the “magic” threshold of 100 million – and it’s likely to grow. Are you one of them?
Our smartphones have become our lifelines. There’s not much we don’t do from these pocket-sized devices: Mailing, banking, Social Media, obtaining product reviews or driving directions, taking pictures, managing our contacts, calendars and libraries, shopping. And yes, every so often, we actually also use these savvy phones to place calls or send texts.
The use of smart phones for everyday online activities is on a steady rise, becoming a serious competitor for desktop and laptop use. But while most computer users have a pretty good idea about the dangers of cyber-crime and the importance of adequate protective software, the number of consumers who think of the same protection for their smartphone is significantly lower.
The dangers, however, are significantly higher.
A reasonably skilled hacker will be able to sneak his way into your cell phone’s data base simply by dialing your number. Instructions on how to do this are (apparently) conveniently provided on the Internet.
Once he dials your number in just that right way, said hacker will have access to the personal data that’s stored on your phone. Including your passwords. Photos. E-mails. Messages. Purchase information. Location.
It also includes overhearing one or all of your conversations, even the ones that happen when you’re not on the phone. And, did we mention photos, snapped remotely, and video footage, taken without your knowledge?
Technology experts expect compromised cell phones (and tablets) to be the security curse of 2012.
So — what can you do to protect your mobile device? There are several ways in which a cell phone might be vulnerable to attacks. We’ve gathered some tips on what to look out for, and ways to protect yourself:
Hackers
In this so-called “man-in-the-middle” attack, a hacker reaches into your phone’s operating system and reroutes the data to go past him before it reaches the destination you intended for it. This allows the crook to listen to calls, read texts, follow your online activities and record audio and video.
Protect Yourself:
Removing the battery is about the only way to protect yourself after you suspect your phone has been compromised. It’s hard to prevent attacks, but if your phone supports SIM cards, consider buying them in bulk and changing them regularly. A frequent change of your phone’s SIM card will make you harder to target.
Apps
This could include fraudulent apps that carry malware, or even legit but poorly designed and coded apps that hackers use as ‘carriers’ for their malicious software.
Beware of the permissions on apps. If your workout tracker requests permission to record audio —- something might be fishy. Take a closer look if an app requests to make phone calls, record audio, connect to the internet or track identity and location.
Protect Yourself:
- Only buy apps from well-known vendors that either list the app’s permission requests, or have a stringent approval system.
- Read the permissions.
- Avoid free unofficial versions of popular apps – they often hide malware in their code.
Links
Smart phones are computers. Just smaller. So don’t do anything on your smart phone or tablet that you wouldn’t do on your desktop or laptop. Don’t click suspicious links or open dubious attachments.
Protect Yourself:
Just like it’s highly recommended to protect a computer with antivirus software, you should also protect your smartphone with a security app or program.
Depending on your phone, consider providers such as Lookout, Norton or AVG. Some of these mobile security apps may be available free, others need to be purchased. Either way, don’t forget to download security updates regularly and promptly.
Mobile security software generally includes features such as detecting and preventing mobile threats before they enter your phone (such as links or apps), blocking calls, protecting your personal data and privacy and remote lock, locate and wipe functions.
For more information, please see these eye-opening articles:
Build Up Your Phone’s Defenses Against Hackers (New York Times)
Are You In Danger of Drive-By Hacking (CNN Tech)
Hackers Go After The Smart Phone (New York Times)
It’s Prom Season! 5 Ways To Prepare To Be Safe
11
May
2012
2012
Prom night is one of the most exciting nights in every High School student’s life! Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most dangerous nights. But with a little preparation, this night of glitz and glam can be safe and extraordinary. Here are some tips:
1. Make a Plan and Stick With It
Plan an off-the-charts, alcohol-and-drug-free after-party in a safe location. The availability of good, clean fun will make it easier to say “No” to bad choices. With a little preparation, prom night can turn into the funnest memory, like, ever!
2. Prepare for Peer Pressure
Yes, there are always the ‘other’ kids who offer temptation. Parents, talk with your kids about what to say and do when fellow prom-goers drink or use drugs and encourage those around to do the same. Why not practice ”sticking to your guns” with role-play, humor, confidence-boosters, and maybe even incentives?
3. Stay with Friends
Pledge to stick together with your friends, and to look out for each other – especially when going to off-campus parties and events. Pledge to come and leave with the same group, hold each other accountable, and practice responsible behavior.
4. Focus on your Driving.
Don’t drink, don’t take drugs, don’t let yourself get over-tired. Even more importantly: DO NOT DRIVE when you are under the influence of substances. Keep in mind that distractions – such as texting, music, even excited talking with friends – can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence.
Parents – be sure that “your”group of students has a designated driver, consider hiring a driver or limousine service, or make yourself available to be the chauffeur for the night.
5. Get home safely. Live to tell about it.
Need we say more? Wishing all teens (and parents) a fun, memorable and safe prom season!
Avoid Electrical Fires With Proper Maintenance, Use and Prevention
4
May
2012
2012
The Office of the State Fire Marshal recently published this handy overview with tips to avoid electrical fires in the home. Please take a moment to read, and make changes in your home if necessary… It may save lives!
Each year in the United States, electrical faults are responsible for starting more than 28,000 home fires, killing and injuring hundreds of people, and causing over $700 million in property damage. (Electrical Safety Foundation International)
State Fire Marshal Charles Duffy suggests the following guidelines to help ensure that you and your family are safe from shock hazards and electrical fires.
Maintenance
- Frayed wires can cause fires. Check to make sure the cords are not frayed. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately.
- Identify the circuits in the breaker box. The breaker box usually tells the amperage of each circuit as well as the outlets serviced by the circuit.
- Avoid overloading outlets. Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician as needed.
- Look for telltale signs of electrical problems such as dim and flickering lights, unusual sizzling and buzzing sounds from your electrical system, insulation and circuit breakers that trip repeatedly. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.
- Overheating, unusual smells, shorts, sparks and sputters are all warning signs that appliances need to be shut off, then replaced or repaired.
Proper Use – When using appliances, follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions.
- Unplug appliances when not in use.
- Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
- If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
- Many avoidable electrical fires can be traced to misuse of electric cords, such as running the cords under rugs through doorways or windows, over nails or in high traffic areas.
- Use electrical extension cords wisely; never overload extension cords or wall sockets.
- Do not piggy-back power strips by plugging one into another. Plug each power strip directly into an electrical outlet.
- Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the light fixture.
Prevention
- Be sure electrical outlets near a wet area have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection.
- Buy electrical products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory. Only use lab-approved electric blankets and warmers.
- In homes with young children, install tamper resistant receptacles to prevent electrical shocks and burns.
- Install smoke detectors on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a Bureau of the Washington State Patrol, providing fire and life safety services to the citizens of Washington State including inspections of state licensed facilities, plan review of school construction projects, licensing of fire sprinkler contractors and pyrotechnic operators, training Washington State’s firefighters, and collecting emergency response data.
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Electric fires are covered on a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. If you have questions about your insurance protection plan, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 425-379-9200. We’re here to help!
McClain Insurance Supports Snohomish County Boys & Girls Club This Month
1
May
2012
2012
Maybe you’ve heard of our 2012 Referral Rewards Program with the motto “Pay It Forward”: Every time you refer a friend or family member to our agency for an insurance quote, you receive a $25 Costco Gas Card as a token of our appreciation.
In addition, for each referral, we will also make a $10 donation to our Charity of the Month. April’s featured charity is the Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish County.
The Snohomish County Boys & Girls Club’s mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those that need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
Today, youth in Snohomish County face tough problems as growing up has never had more obstacles. For over 63 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs ofSnohomishCounty have been in the forefront of youth development, dedicated to ensuring that all of our youth have a greater access to recreational and educational activities that will enhance their lives and shape their future. There are 13 clubs and 18 extension sites located throughout Snohomish County serving nearly 18,000 kids.
We are providing what young people need and want most: adults who respect and listen to them, a safe environment where they can have fun and be themselves, and interesting constructive activities to do during non-school hours.
Did You Really Just Post That? Teens, Internet and Parents’ Liability
27
Apr
2012
2012
Haven’t we all said something in our lives that we wish we could take back? Especially in a teen’s life, this is a rather common occurrence. But an offensive comment that was – only a decade ago – a bad choice that could be redeemed with an apology and time, is now likely to be broadcast on the Internet where it not only reaches an unknown audience, but may also stick around for years to come.
Social Media sites like Facebook and Twitter can unfortunately become another platform for teens to share their (sometimes less-than-flattering) opinions about their peers.
But did you know that if your teen expresses his or her opinion a little too freely in a public forum, publishes bullying or teasing posts, or even reveals private confidential information about a peer on the Internet, you (as the parent) may be exposed to a liability insurance claim?
Generally, if your child causes property damage or bodily injury to another person – say, by bumping into a team mate during a basketball game and causing an awkward accident, or breaking an antique vase at a friend’s house — your standard homeowner’s or renter’s policy would extend to cover the liability on your child’s behalf.
However, the spreading of rumors or revealing information about another that could damage a person’s reputation and cause long-term consequences is a different story. With Social Media being used more frequently as part of a job or college applicant’s background check, such behavior could cause severe longterm cosnequences for the victim.
Depending on the offense, a victim could pursue legal action under a type of defamation known as publication of private facts. A standard homeowner’s policy will not cover these liabilities.
The solution: A Personal Injury Endorsement.
This endorsement will extend coverage to include liabilities resulting if you or a member of your household verbally offend another party. It pays to defend you and (up to policy limits) pays to settle a case when legal action is brought against you or your children for defamation.
Talk with your independent insurance agents at McClain Insurance about adding this affordable coverage to your protection plan.
Keep in mind, though, that adapting your insurance plan is not enough. Most importantly, whether you choose to actively monitor your teen’s Social Media accounts, or opt to invest in one of many available software programs, be sure to talk with your teen about proper behavior on Social Media sites, and the consequences of publishing offending or emotionally charged remarks.
Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Call us at 425-379-9200.
R V There Yet? 8 Tips To Get Your RV Ready For The Season
20
Apr
2012
2012
30 million Americans are expected to hit the great outdoors this year to enjoy road trips and camping. About 8 millions of those happy campers will vacation in style in an RV or Travel Trailer. Are you one of them?
This is the time to get your RV ready for the road. Check out our quick spring checklist:
1. Give It A Good Look-Over
Inspect your RV for water leaks. Check the caulking around windows, doors, roof vents and seams. Water may intrude even through the smallest cracks and cause damage.
Open and close awnings. If they are difficult to operate, you may need to adjust the spring tension. This can be a difficult and dangerous job to do, so be very careful or cosider hiring a pro.
Don’t forget to check brake pads, lights and turn signals, as well as the hitch and wires on the tow vehicle.
Make sure your vehicle’s tires have adequate tread and tire pressure. Check for bulges as well as cracks in the tires’ sidewalls and between treads. Jack up your trailer and test the wheel bearings on each wheel, making sure there is no play or wobble. Worn bearings and / or tires can cause major mechanical problems, not to mention potentially deadly accidents.
2. Clean It Up
Remove outside covers for water heater and refrigerator and clean the burner units from debris and cobwebs.
3. Hoses and Valves
To check LP lines, be sure to turn on the LP detector inside the RV first. Then, open the tank valve all the way and smell carefully for possible leaks. Also, run a soapy water solution around the valves and look for bubbles. Be sure that all leaks are detected and fixed properly.
Also, inspect the sewage dump hose for punctures and signs of wear and tear. Dump hoses have a limited life span and need to be replaced periodically. Also, don’t forget to connect to a dump station and carefully check your waste tank valves before you head out for the first trip of the season. Valve seals may dry out and become difficult to operate, but they may be saved with some gentle wiggling. Look for special valve lubricant to add to your tank.
4. Batteries
Batteries ought to be both cleaned and tested at the beginning of the season. Cleaning corroded battery terminals and connections and checking battery fluid levels can be a dangerous job. Be sure to wear safety goggles and latex gloves, have the shore power disconnected and main shut-off in off position. If you have to remove wires, be sure to mark all connections with masking tape and marker.
You may also need to do a load test, which is best done by a professional. Don’t forget to have batteries fully charged before the test, as a low charge may actually cause the battery to fail the test. If the batteries need to be replaced, replace multiple banks together. Avoid combining old and new batteries.
5. Smoke Detectors
Test smoke detectors and replace the batteries. Equip your RV or Travel Trailer with a CO detector if it doesn’t already have one.
6. Tanks and Fluids
Drain antifreeze from holding tanks, shut off the water heater bypass and refill the propane and water tanks according to manufacturer’s instructions. Before filling with water, check the hot water bypass valve with faucets closed. Then, during filling, open a hot and a cold water faucet to let air escape until the water runs steady. Don’t forget to check faucets, plugs and valves for leaks and fix where necessary. Run enough water through each faucet to be sure that all RV antifreeze is removed.
7. Appliances
Test fire appliances after getting the gas and water systems up and running. Be sure the LP gas leak detector is on; then light a stove top burner. This will fill the LP lines and the burner’s easy-to-see flame will tell you when the air in the line is purged. Then, light and test other LP-fired appliances. Be sure that the water heater is full before you ignite it.
8. Get Your Insurance Up To Speed
At McClain Insurance Services, we offer customizable protection plans for your RV, Travel Trailer, and “Summer Toys” such as ATVs or Jet Skis. Give us a call today at 425-379-9200 for a free, no-hassle insurance quote. We are here to help – whether you live in Washington, Oregon or Utah.
McClain Insurance Supports YWCA This Month
14
Apr
2012
2012
Maybe you’ve heard of our 2012 Referral Rewards Program with the motto “Pay It Forward”: Every time you refer a friend or family member to our agency for an insurance quote, you receive a $25 Costco Gas Card as a token of our appreciation.
In addition, for each referral, we will also make a $10 donation to our Charity of the Month. April’s featured charity is the YWCA of Snohomish County.
The YWCA opens doors to opportunity and self-sufficiency for women and families facing poverty, violence and discrimination. With more than 100 years experience, the YWCA is the leading organization for moving women and families out of crisis and empowering them to achieve lasting independence.
What’s YOUR Insurance Profile?
10
Apr
2012
2012
As we work with our customers every day, we’ve noticed how each client takes a different approach to insurance. Of course! Every customer is an individual with their own thoughts, ideas, and ways to process. And as is often the case, knowing our personality can help in optimizing the way we go about things.
That’s why we’ve gathered the four most common Insurance Personality Types – our Insurance Profiles – that we’ve encountered in over 35 years of working with insurance customers.
To get an idea of what your insurance profile might be, read through the questions and select the answer that describes you best. Count your most frequent answer – a, b, c or d – and find your matching profile below.
What’s your insurance profile? We’d love to know! Leave us a comment, or e-mail claudia@autohomeboat.com.
1. How do you determine what you pay for your insurance?
a) I know what coverages I want, then obtain the best quote based on that.
b) I know what I’m currently paying and am looing to pay less.
c) I don’t care about price as much as about a friendly professional.
d) I go for the cheapest rate, no matter what the coverage is.
2. What do you know about various coverage options?
a) I know the parts of my policy and the protection I have in each category.
b) I glance at the coverages but don’t really understand and quickly forget.
c) I work with an agent I trust and know that they will look out for me.
d) I wasn’t aware that there are coverage options. Isn’t a policy – a policy?
3. How do you find an insurance agent?
a) I ask my friends for referrals, then check them out online and by calling for a quote.
b) If an agent can save me money as opposed to me getting my insurance online, I would consider using an agent.
c) I call agents based on internet and phone book searches. Friendliest service wins.
d) I don’t. I get my online insurance quotes myself.
4. What do you expect from your insurance?
a) Excellent protection and coverage.
b) Low price for decent coverage – it’s unlikely that something will happens to me, anyways.
c) I want to be able to call for help, service and guidance.
d) Nothing. I have insurance because it’s the law.
Ready? Now count up your anwers, and find out “who” you are! Don’t forget – any insurance type can benefit from the assistance of an independent insurance agent.
Mostly A’s: The Planner
The Planner knows his insurance well, from premium to coverage to renewal dates. Adequate coverage is the most important part of his protection plan. An independent agent’s expertise can help streamline a protection plan to maximize value per insurance dollar.
Mostly B’s: The Banker
The Banker likes good coverage, but more importantly, he likes to get the best insurance value for the price he’s willing to pay. As independent agents, we save you money by shoping multiple carriers to find the best fit for your budget.
Mostly C’s: The Friend
The Friend is hard-pressed when it comes to remembering his insurance facts, but that’s fine with him. What counts most, is the feeling that he’s in good hands with agents he trusts. We genuinely care about our clients. We’re here for you to explain coverages, service policies and assist in case of a claim.
Mostly D’s: The Rebel
The Rebel carries insurance because it’s required by law. That’s it. Coverage does not matter much to him, and the price needs to be as low as possible. The Rebel tends to be a do-it-yourselfer, but he should know that an independent agent can squeeze more protection out of minimum price.
If you have any questions or if you would like to review your protection plan, please give us a call at 425-379-9200. We are happy to help!
What Kind Of Insurance Does An Insurance Agent Buy?
4
Apr
2012
2012
Insurance is a very personal thing. It is all about protecting what’s important to you: People, items, dreams. When you allow us to quote your insurance, you allow us to learn a lot about you. We appreciate that! And, we want you to feel like you know us, too… to feel like you are part of the “McClain Insurance Family.” That’s why we invite you to meet one of our agents, Nathalie. She works from home, and focuses on managing our website, contacts, and communications.
“Hi – I’m Nathalie, mom of an amazing 3-year old boy and owner of a wonderful dog, a Lab-Great Dane mix named Merlin. My family and I live on Camano Island, where we enjoy playing at the beach and in the woods. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, running and arts and crafts.
I moved all my personal insurance policies to McClain Insurance shortly after I was hired in 2006. I carry Auto, Renter’s, Life and Umbrella Insurance. I feel very strongly about adequate coverage and long-term protection… which probably makes me a “Planner” – a low-risk, conservative insurance type. On my auto insurance, I carry liability and underinsured motorist limits of $500,000. My Life Insurance policy is designed specifically to protect my son financially in case something should happen to me. Recently, I rounded out my protection plan with an Umbrella policy. Umbrella Insurance stacks on top of your existing auto and home policies and provides $1 million (or more) additional liability coverage. I appreciate knowing that in case I make a mistake and am at-fault in an accident, I won’t lose everything I own – quite possibly including future earnings. For the price of a take-out pizza per month, I can protect my family’s future and dreams. To me, that’s priceless. I would recommend an Umbrella policy for everybody as part of a well-rounded protection plan.”
Now, you may have noticed Nathalie identifying herself as a “Planner” – an insurance type who likes high protection and low risk. Knowing your Insurance Profile can help you learn more about yourself and your expectations not only from your insurance, but also from your agent. A good insurance agent can help optimize a protection plan for any Insurance Profile. (Call 425-379-9200 to talk with a GREAT team of agents!)
Come back in a few days to take the quiz, and find out which Insurance Profile YOU are!
10 Tips to Improve Your Insurance Score
29
Mar
2012
2012
Some hate it, others don’t care – but the Insurance Score is an important factor for insurance companies in setting the cost of your insurance policy.
Insurance companies consider prospective customers’ credit scores to determine their policy pricing. The theory is that a high credit score is a reflection of the customer’s general level of responsibility. The more responsibly a person deals with their financial matters, the more responsible they’ll likely be when it comes to driving patterns or homeownership. Responsible behavior translates into a low risk of having a claim or an accident. Although there are certainly individual exceptions, the statistical correlation behind higher insurance scores predicting fewer and lower cost claims is very strong. If it wasn’t, insurance commissioners around the country who are responsible for approving insurance comapny rates would not allow Insurance Scores to be a rating factor. Use of Insurance Scores allows companies to reward responsible behavior with lower premium rates.
When an insurance company offers a quote for a prospective customer, it is actually not a “one-size-fits-all” price, but a complicated customized proposal based on the individual’s type of car and safety features, driving record, miles driven, profession and/or educational background, age, marital status, location and a variety of other factors. The Insurance Score actually represents a small portion of each client’s overall rate.
You might wonder if accessing your credit records hurts your credit score. The good news is that the Insurance Score is what is known as a “soft hit”. When it comes to credit checks, there are two kinds of hits: Loan or credit applications that reflect a desire to borrow “new” money usually result in a “hard hit” and may adversely affect your credit score. Account reviews by current lenders and insurance score checks are “soft hits” that won’t affect your credit score.
So while a good credit score may provide you with a high Insurance Score and lower insurance rates, obtaining these insurance quotes will not lower your credit score.
Travelers Insurance provides 10 tips that will help you improve your insurance score and potentially reduce your insurance rates:
- Pay bills on time.
- Keep outstanding balances at least 75% below your available credit.
- Avoid too many hits on your credit report from loan and credit card applications.
- Limit the number of credit accounts and credit cards in your name.
- Regularly review your credit report. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you are entitled to one free and secure annual credit report from each of these sites: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Spread them out over the year to monitor your credit score.
- Avoid “quick” credit fixes – good credit is built over time.
- Make a plan (and follow it, too) to effectively pay down existing debt without generating new debt.
- Limit the amount of new debt you take on.
- Establish credit to build credit history – a longer track record has a positive impact on your score.
- Work with your creditors. Resolve outstanding balances before they are turned over to a debt collector.
Keep in mind that a local Independent Insurance Agent (like McClain Insurance Services) offers choices and options and can shop your insurance for you with several different carriers all at once, regardless of your current Insurance Score! Give us a call at 425-379-9200.