Summer is all fun and games until you need to file a claim. The summer months increase the risk of certain seasonal incidents, and claims can often soar in tandem with the temperatures as a result. From boating and pool-related incidents to accidents at home and on the road, here are some of the biggest risks you'll face this summer and tips to prevent them.
Poolside Perils
Every day, an average of 11 fatal and 22 non-fatal drownings occur.
According to the CDC, drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children aged 5-14.
Drowning isn't the only pool-related risk. Slip-and-falls, diving board mishaps, and other injuries can occur, even in the most safety-conscious homes.
Pool safety tips:
- Install a 4-sided fence with a locking mechanism around the pool
- Use pool alarms on gates to alert you of pool access
- Establish clear pool rules, including no running, diving, or roughhousing
- Learn CPR and keep your skills updated
- Always supervise children in a pool/ teach children how to swim
Pool Insurance
Pools are generally covered by homeowners' insurance policies, which include liability coverage for injuries. However, pool owners may want to consider increasing liability limits or adding an umbrella policy to safeguard against injuries or claims that exceed their liability limits.
Fires and Burn Injuries
Summer is fire season in much of the US. Even if you don't live in a place where wildfires are a risk, summer-specific risks like backyard barbeques can lead to fires and burn injuries.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to nearly 10,000 home grill fires each year.
Burn injuries increase from May to August each year, according to the American Burn Association, most likely due to increased outdoor activities like grilling, bonfires, and fireworks during the summer months.
Grease buildup, grills too close to walls or fences, gas leaks, and kids (and pets) that get too close to hot surfaces can all pose a grilling risk.
Grill safety tips:
- Clean your grill after each use.
- Keep it at least 10 feet away from your house or structures.
- Never leave it unattended while in use.
- Create a kid- and pet-free zone around the grill.
Insurance for your home or apartment
Fires caused by grilling are typically covered under homeowners insurance. But if injuries or extensive damage occur, additional protection from an umbrella policy or renters insurance (if you're a tenant) may be essential to safeguard your finances. Your homeowners insurance is also designed to cover third-party injuries, in case someone visiting your house is burned or injured by your grill.
RVs and Roadtrips
Summertime is the perfect time to get the family out on the road. Whether you're piling into the family SUV and headed off to a vacation getaway or taking a recreational vehicle out to explore the great outdoors, anytime you're on the road, you're at risk.
Unfortunately, car accidents tend to increase during the summer months. Increased traffic volume, more teen drivers, road construction, higher alcohol consumption, extreme heat, and unpredictable weather can all contribute to dangers on the road. Hot weather can cause tires to overheat and increase the risk of blowouts.
If you're taking a recreational vehicle out, you can also face additional risks such as theft of your personal property or damage to your RV.
Roadtrip safety tips:
- Maintain your vehicle; check tire pressure, fluids, lights, and cooling systems
- Avoid distractions and put your phone away
- Drive the speed limit and enforce seatbelts for everyone in the car
- Plan for delays, accidents, and traffic congestion, and leave plenty of time to reach your destination
- Never drive impaired or when sleepy
RV and vehicle insurance
Insurance can protect your vehicles and recreational vehicles against the risks of the road. Make sure you carry enough coverage to meet your state requirements and the right kind of coverage to protect your vehicle and its inhabitants. RV insurance is specifically designed for motorhomes and trailers and typically covers collision and comprehensive (just like your other vehicles) as well as personal belongings inside the RV, liability coverage, and even vacation liability and emergency expense coverage if your “home away from home†breaks down during your travels.
Protect Your Home and Family This Summer
Your home, family, and belongings all deserve to be protected against seasonal perils. From pools to backyard barbeques and roadtrips, you want to have a summer full of fun memories, not financial disasters or losses. Ask your trusted insurance provider how you can maximize your protection so that the only thing you need to worry about in the summer is when to reapply your sunscreen.