Pepper, Johnstone & Co. News

Safety Tips for Your Boat Trailer

Tue, 01 May 2012 14:35:40 GMT

When purchasing a trailer in Alabama or elsewhere, stay within recommended capacity guidelines. When determining capacity, remember to include the weight of fuel and accessories in addition to the weight of the craft.

Trailers come with closed or open frames. Closed frames help protect the wiring, but problems can be more difficult to locate and repair. Open frames leave the wiring exposed, but make it easier to spot and repair potential problems. Open frames also drain water more easily and efficiently, so keep in mind that when you dip that trailer into lakes, or elsewhere.

Consider the method of personal watercraft (PWC) support, the frame strength and construction, whether lights and wiring are approved for marine use, whether rollers and bunks are properly positioned and attached to the main frame for proper suspension, and the durability of the finish. (Powder-coated or galvanized finishes are more durable than baked-on enamel.)

Purchase good quality tie-downs with the right hooks to attach to your trailer. Before each use of your trailer, check:

Tires for wear and inflation
Hitch and safety chain for signs of wear or stress
Braking system to make sure you can stop with a load
Electrical system for improper connections, corroded terminals, damaged wires, burned out bulbs, etc.
Wheel bearings are properly packed with a good bearing grease
Lug nuts and main nuts are tight
Stops, rollers and bunks for wear or cracks
Coupler and ball are compatible in size and are properly secured. Check for wear or stress
Both bow and stern of your PWC are secured to the trailer. Use extra tie-downs in case one should fail
Emergency supplies; carry basic tools, spare bulbs, bearings, grease, mounted tire and highway flares

Drive carefully. Give other drivers plenty of warning for any maneuvers. Allow for the extra length of the car and trailer when turning and passing, and allow extra time for stopping.

Pull off the road periodically to check the rig. Examine the tires and wheel bearings for signs of overheating, check the lights and test the tie-downs.

Before Leaving Shore

At the Launch Ramp:

It helps to have someone in the car, and someone at the water.
Prepare your PWC as much as possible before taking your turn in line. Remove the craft cover. Remove the seat for a few minutes to allow gas fumes to vent. Undo the stern (not bow) tie-downs. Unplug the trailer lights. Make sure the PWC drain plugs are in place. Visually inspect your PWC from bow to stern.
Be courteous. Wait your turn at the ramp. Don’t rush, but don’t linger longer than necessary.
Make sure the way is clear before launching. Look for other boats, debris, etc.
Be prepared to ride clear of the launch area immediately and to secure the PWC out of the way of others.
Never leave the trailer unattended on the ramp with only the parking brake set.

Contact Us!

Tornadoes Happen Every Year - Are You Prepared?

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:12:38 GMT

You don't have to be directly hit by a tornado in Alabama to experience damage. Taking some time to prepare could save you thousands of dollars and hours of clean-up.

Know What Your Insurance Covers and How Much You Need

In an average year, 800 are reported nationwide, but in April of 2011 alone, 875 tornadoes were reported. Oftentimes, homes and businesses close to a tornado are damaged or destroyed by wind, rain and flying debris. Check with us to see if your insurance policy covers repair or rebuilding costs.

If you can’t live in your home, see if your policy will pay additional living expenses. We can review your policy for detailed coverage explanations.

Review your insurance policy once a year to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild based on current construction costs. Pepper, Johnstone & Co. recommends you work with an independent building contractor to get a precise estimate, and make sure you chat with us about your business or home’s unique features.

You Can Take Action to Reduce Damage

You can’t make your home or business tornado-proof, but you can take steps that improve the odds of surviving the high winds. Ideally, you may want to call on professionals for the more technical jobs.

Start at the top – your roof. Fix any areas that need repair. If you are planning to replace your roof, select materials that are designed to withstand high winds.
If you are planning to replace your windows, select impact-resistant window systems, which have a much better chance of surviving a major windstorm.
Anchor door frames securely to wall framing. Make certain your doors have at least three hinges and a deadbolt security lock with a bolt at least one inch long.

If a Tornado is Headed Your Way

If you are in a building, move to an underground shelter, an interior room or a hallway on the lowest floor.
Stay away from windows and corners.
If you’re in your car, get out immediately and find safe shelter or lie flat in a ditch. Do not take shelter under an overpass or bridge.
Flying debris causes most injuries and fatalities, so use your arms to protect your head and neck.

Additional Resources

Check out some of these additional resources or let Pepper, Johnstone & Co. find the right insurance protection for you:

It’s necessary to get the right insurance protection for you. For more information on your policy or if you’d like to ask about additional coverage, please contact us or give us a call at 256-232-7818.

Spring is Coming!

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:44:03 GMT

With the days getting longer and the weather getting warmer, we're starting to think about spring. (Or at least hoping that springtime is coming, anyway.) And whether spring arrives on time, we've got you covered with tips to get you ready for the season.

Get Ready for Spring

Although everyone thinks of cleaning when it comes to spring, there are a number of things you should do to make sure your home is ready when the weather in Alabama changes. Below is a selection of maintenance tasks from the National Center for Healthy Housing (see the full list)

Check to make sure your roof’s shingles are in good condition (stay safe doing that!), and check your attic for any possible roof leaks that should be repaired.
Look for peeling paint and repair/touch up as needed.
Check for signs of leaks at window and door sills and use caulking or weather stripping to seal.
Clean your dryer vent and make sure exhaust ducts are clear.
Make sure there are no puddles or wet spots in your basement or crawlspace.
Look for signs of rodents, roaches, termites, etc. Call an exterminator if you suspect an infestation.
Clean your gutters and downspouts.
Clean air conditioner coils and drain pans.
Check/replace the batteries your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Replace filters in your air conditioner and dehumidifier.
Store winter heaters, ensuring that liquid-fuel heaters are completely emptied. These should be stored outside, if possible.

Beat the Wintertime Blues

Well, you can take solace in the fact that spring will be here eventually. In the meantime, here are some quick tips from Johns Hopkins University to avoid the “winter blues” and get through those long weeks of waiting before spring.

Keep active. Exercise releases endorphins that will elevate your mood.
Eat well. High-sugar foods and large amounts of caffeine can feed depression and actually decrease your energy level. Foods such as whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood and lean meats can help your immune system.
Go to the light. Bring as much light into your life as possible, by spending time outdoors, opening your shades so your home receives more natural light, or even get help from a “light box.”
Get your rest. Go to bed around the same time every night and wake up at the same time each morning. You’ll have more energy during the day.
Of course, if you have strong feelings of depression, please seek assistance from friends, family or a trusted health-care provider. There are people ready to help, whatever the season.

Contact Us !

If an annual insurance review wasn’t included in your New Year’s resolutions, why not get it done while you’re in the cleaning and organizing mood this spring? Your life changes over the course of a year – sometimes in monumental ways. That means your insurance needs can change, too.

At Pepper, Johnstone & Co. we can work with you to make sure you have the coverage you need, while at the same time utilizing all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just contact us or give us a call at 256-232-7818. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

Prepare for Driving In Bad Weather Before You Hit the Road

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:59:34 GMT

Rain, fog, sleet, snow, ice and wind… bad weather is the enemy of every driver in Alabama. Pepper, Johnstone & Co. wants you and your employees to be safe. Even if you are satisfied that your vehicle and all of its components are in good operating condition, bad weather demands that you take a few more precautions before hitting the road. At regular intervals, especially during the winter months, check the following items.

Abrasive Material: A bag of kitty litter or similar material will help you get moving under snowy or icy conditions

Battery: Does it need to be charged or replaced? Cold weather puts extra strain on a battery. Always keep jumper cables in your vehicle.

Brakes: Are they properly adjusted? Should they be replaced? Good brakes are more important than ever during the winter months. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), make sure it is working.

Chains: Do you carry them? They can be a real help on ice or snow.

Cooling system: Be sure the cooling system is free from leaks. Does it need more anti-freeze? Should it be flushed and refilled?

Defroster: Are the defroster and heater working properly? Make sure they can keep the interior from fogging and the windshield free from ice.

Engine: Have you had a recent tune-up? This is a must in cold weather to prevent slow starts and stalling.

Exhaust System: Check to make sure the muffler and exhaust pipe are free from leaks. Carbon monoxide from a faulty exhaust system can threaten your life.

Lights: Keep all lights clean and working properly (high and low-beam headlights, taillights, brake lights, directional signals).

Restraints: Keep lap and shoulder belts clean and accessible, and be sure to use them. Restraints can keep you behind the wheel and in control if the vehicle suddenly skids.

Tires: Are they properly inflated? Are treads in good condition and wheels aligned and balanced? Consider changing to snow tires.

Windshield Wipers and Washer: Keep wiper blades in good condition and be sure they are set at the proper pressure to sweep snow off the windshield. Keep plenty of windshield washer anti-freeze handy.

Pepper, Johnstone & Co. can provide you with tools for fleet driving training and additional information to help reduce crashes in everyday driving. Just give us a call at 256-232-7818 or contact us today!

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Car

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 14:50:58 GMT

Buying a new car is an exciting time - but it can also be stressful. After all, you're trying to get the best deal on price, while also deciding on the make, model and features you need.

We can't really help you become a master negotiator when it comes to buying a car. But we can give you some things to consider when you're looking around the lot - and when you're trying to answer the age-old question of "new, or used?"

Now, the new vs. used argument is pretty well documented - with people usually staunchly in one camp or the other - and you probably already know what side you're on. But read on with an open mind, and you might just come to a different decision the next time you’re on the car lot.

New cars

Ah, that new-car smell. It's a bit of a cliché, but it's one of the things that people love about climbing into a brand-new car. And while they make air fresheners that supposedly give you that same smell for your used car, it just doesn't seem the same, does it? Still, there are other benefits to buying new - and, of course, there are drawbacks as well.

PRO - Choices: When you buy new, you get to choose your color and the exact features you want. From spoilers to sunroofs to leather seats and stereo systems, you can customize your car to best fit you.
PRO - Maintenance: Some manufacturers offer free scheduled maintenance for a set period of time after you buy the car, and you likely won't need a new battery, tires, etc., for several years after your purchase.
PRO - Peace of Mind: Your new car may have a warranty for up to 10 years, and also is covered by "lemon laws" that could allow for a replacement or refund if the car has serious defects.
CON - Cost: Depending on the make and model, buying a new car is almost always more expensive (at least in terms of the purchase price) than a used car.

It's also worth noting that if you purchase a new car in its first model year (meaning it's a new model for the automaker), there won't be many user reviews available, and data on reliability and repairs will be limited. In addition, sometimes newly introduced cars have some kinks that generally are ironed out by the second and third model years. These aren't necessarily serious issues, and the warranty should cover them, but in some instances, you and your car could be headed to the shop more than you'd like.

Used Cars

Don't care about the new-car smell? Looking to save some money on your purchase? Well, a used car might be right for you. There are many advantages to buying used, but you'll want to be a little more careful. After all, it's hard to know exactly how well the previous owner treated the car. But you can limit your risk with a little bit of work.

PRO - Choices: While you won't necessarily get to customize your used car, you likely can find a pretty good fit. There are lots of used cars out there.
PRO - Cost: New cars depreciate quickly after they're purchased. By buying used, you're letting someone else take that financial hit over the first few years of the life of the car.
PRO/CON - Reliability: Buying a used car is less of a gamble than it used to be, particularly with the advent of "certified pre-owned" programs many automakers now offer. However, used cars generally don't carry the same warranties as new cars, even though the original manufacturer's warranty is usually transferable to a second owner.
CON - Maintenance: While a used car theoretically shouldn't need more frequent maintenance than a new car, you'll likely need to replace things like tires, headlights, etc., earlier. And scheduled maintenance probably isn't covered by the automaker.
PRO/CON - History: You'll need to check the car's title history to make sure it hasn't been in a serious accident or salvaged. Ask the dealership to provide this information, usually from Carfax.

Of course, whichever car you purchase, the important thing is that it's a good fit for you. Bear in mind that certain makes and models can result in higher car insurance costs for you, so feel free to check in with us before you buy.

Have fun shopping - and we'll see you on the road!

Is Your Home Energy Efficient?

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 23:00:11 GMT

Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters.

All are common issues here in Alabama, and they’re not only annoying – they also cost you money in decreased energy efficiency and higher utility bills.

Would you like to save $200 to $400 a year on your energy costs? That’s how much the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program estimates that homeowners can save by incorporating technologies to make their homes operate more efficiently.

Of course, helping to protect you and your family is our goal at Pepper, Johnstone & Co., and keeping your home well-maintained usually means your home will be safer as well. Those are goals we all should share. Several of the tips below from the National Association of Home Builders will help you accomplish both.

Do a home-energy audit

Making your home more efficient can seem like an overwhelming task. But “auditing” your energy efficiency is something you can do yourself, and it’s relatively simple. This will show you where your home loses energy, how efficient your heating and cooling systems are, and ways you can decrease your electricity use. Just inspect the areas listed here and note the problems you find.

Where’s the air? Air commonly “leaks” from homes through gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets and windows or doors. Stopping these drafts can save up to 30 percent of your yearly energy costs. Be sure to check your home’s exterior as well, paying particular attention to areas where two different building materials meet. When you find leaks, seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
Don’t wait … insulate! Check to see if the amount of insulation in the ceiling and walls is sufficient. Your attic door should be insulated and close tightly. For walls, make a small hole in a closet or other inconspicuous place and probe into the wall with a screwdriver – the area should be completely filled with insulation.
Do a systems check. Efficient heating and cooling systems can save you frustration as well as money. Make sure ducts and pipes are insulated properly, and have your equipment checked and cleaned by a professional each year. Filters for forced-air furnaces should be replaced as soon as they are dirty, or every 30 to 60 days.
Let there be (efficient) light. Lighting can account for up to 20 percent of your home’s total electricity use, so consider compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs, which last longer and use far less energy than incandescent bulbs.

The only thing left to do after you complete your audit (and make any necessary changes)? Figuring out how to spend the money you’ll save each year!

Contact Us!

For further questions and assistance, please contact us.

Safety Tips for Black Friday Shoppers

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:44:09 GMT

The day after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday, is the biggest shopping day of the year. When it comes to cashing-in on the day’s deals, the motto is “If you snooze you lose.”

Many stores will open at 12:01 a.m. on Friday and some retailers will even open their doors on Thanksgiving eve in hopes that they can entice people out of their post-turkey dinner food coma. For serious bargain-hunters, the day is the ultimate shopping extravaganza that requires a strategic plan, including store maps and item locations, that’s hatched days in advance. Others take a less organized approach, but are still hungry for a deal or this year’s hottest holiday toy.

The combination of too-good-to-be-true deals and shoppers hopped-up on copious amounts of caffeine and tryptophan can be dangerous, though. Overzealous drivers can make parking lots a zoo and sleep-deprived shoppers are less likely to pay attention to the road. Unfortunately, Black Friday, which is considered the unofficial start to the holiday season, also brings out thieves, pickpockets, and others who are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers.

Whether you’re leaving the house at the crack of dawn (or dusk) in search of Black Friday deals or saving your holiday shopping for the last minute, keep these safety tips in mind when navigating the parking lots and wandering the aisles:

On the Road and in the Parking Lot:

When backing out of a parking spot, be aware of waiting cars, others who are backing out at the same time, and motorists who speed through lanes.
Lock all doors and roll up all windows even when leaving the car for a short period of time.
When shopping, keep gifts in the trunk or hidden from view in the interior of the car. Also, put all of your packages in the trunk before departing one parking lot and driving to another. Waiting until your next shopping destination allows others to see packages go into the trunk of your car and then you departing into the mall or store.
Avoid parking next to vans and large trucks that block your space from general vision of others.
Make a mental note or write down exactly where you park your car to avoid wandering around longer than necessary.
During the day, park away from buildings to reduce the chance of dings from car doors or shopping carts. At night, avoid secluded areas and park directly under lights whenever possible.
Have your keys in hand when leaving a store. Also, look underneath your car before you reach it; criminals have been known to lie underneath in wait.
Bring gifts in the house with you instead of leaving them in the car.

In the Store:

Use a credit card to avoid thefts of large amounts of cash that are irreplaceable.
Shopping with a single credit card is preferable because it’s easier to cancel one, rather than several, if your wallet or purse is stolen.
Keep purses zipped and close to your body. Never leave a purse unattended in a shopping cart where it is more susceptible to theft.
Keep a reference list of phone and account numbers for all your credit cards in a safe place at home.
If possible, carry keys, cash, and credit cards separate from each other.
For freedom of motion and unobstructed visibility, do not overload yourself with bags when leaving a store and returning to your car. It’s difficult to defend yourself with when you’re carry a lot of packages.
Use ATMs in well-populated, well lit locations. Do not throw ATM receipts away at the ATM location.
Remember there is increased safety in numbers. Avoid walking alone and leave malls and stores well before closing time to assure a more active parking lot. Ask mall security to walk you to your car if you feel you are not safe.

In additions to remembering these safety tips, you should also review your insurance policies with your Trusted Choice® independent insurance agent to make sure you have the proper coverage in case an accident or theft does occur. Liability coverage will protect you if you hit another motorist, collision coverage will cover the damage to your car, and comprehensive coverage will insure you for damage by vandals or theft of your vehicle.

Make Sure Your Home is Ready for Winter

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:12:38 GMT

Summer has ended, but there’s no need to fret: Fall brings with it crisp, cool days, wonderful colors — and football season!

It also brings with it a few maintenance tasks that Pepper, Johnstone & Co. recommends to help ensure your home is ready for fall and winter weather in Alabama.

Check out the following information for some general tips from the National Association of Home Builders, and don’t hesitate to call us if you have questions about what your home insurance policy covers.

Exterior maintenance

Gutters: Leaves, pine needles and other material can clog your gutters in the fall, preventing proper drainage and raising the risk of water damage to your walls, foundation, basement or landscaping. Remove all debris from your gutters and consider installing one of the many available gutter guard systems — it could be the last time you have to worry about clogged gutters.
Trees: Weak trees and branches can break and cause damage to your home, car or even someone walking on your property (the latter is a good reason to consider a personal umbrella insurance policy). Watch out for large dead or detached branches, as well as cracks or rotten wood along trunks and major branches. If there are potential hazards, call a professional tree service.
Roof: Damaged or loose shingles, as well as gaps where roofing or siding meets vents and flues, can mean emergency (and expensive) repairs later. Being proactive is the best way to avoid problems — if you see signs of damage, you’ll want to call a professional roofer.
Walls: The exterior walls of your home keep the weather out — so you’ll want to make sure they’re up to the challenge of of a Alabama winter. Look for possible damage or decay on siding and trim, and patch or replace pieces if necessary.

Interior maintenance

Insulation: Check the insulation in your attic, basement and crawl spaces, and insulate pipes in those spaces to protect against freezing.
Pipes: Nobody wants to deal with a frozen pipe, so if you live in a place susceptible to freezing, wrap exposed ones with heating tape every winter and keep your home above 65 degrees. Always check for cracks and leaks. And know where the main water shut-off is in your home so you can act quickly if there is a problem.
Heating: It’s a good idea to have your heating systems (furnace, fireplace, water heater, etc.) serviced every year.

For more information on home maintenance, visit the National Association of Home Builders website at www.nahb.com. A little action on your part now can make fall and winter a lot more enjoyable for you and your family.

For further questions and assistance, please contact our office.

Hiring a Subcontractor in Alabama?

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 14:57:49 GMT

As many commercial building owners and contractors across Alabama begin remodeling or construction projects, they realize the value in subbing out some of the work to skilled and technical professionals.

But there are risks involved in hiring subcontractors. We do not want you or your business to be held responsible for accidents that are out of your control. We can help you by teaching you about Insurance Requirement Agreements.

Insurance Requirement Agreements

Always have a signed, written construction contract
Just like your customers have a contract with you, you should make sure your business is protected in writing, too. Depending on the nature of the work the subcontractor is performing, you may wish to include additional insurance coverage requirements or limits over what is listed in their Certificate of Insurance. We can make sure your coverage is up-to-date and provide general knowledge and an example of an agreement you could use before you hire a subcontractor.
It’s their responsibility, too
Trust your subcontracts but verify they have insurance, too. We encourage you to have a written contract with your subs but at the very least, you should obtain a copy of their Certificate of Insurance. You can learn more and get schooled on how to read a certificate of insurance when you contact us.
Property owners in Alabama need awareness, too
When you hire a general contractor, tradesman, artisan, or others in Alabama, to build or renovate your property, you potentially expose yourself to lawsuits claiming severe bodily injury or property damage resulting from unsafe work acts. To prevent this exposure, talk to us to learn about how an Insurance Requirement Agreement can help you protect yourself from this type of risk.

For more advice and complete help in protecting your business and your employees, contact us today.

Disaster Preparedness, FEMA and More

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 01:36:13 GMT

If the unthinkable happens, Pepper, Johnstone & Co. understands that your most valuable assets are more than just items on a balance sheet. That information is critical during a time of catastrophe.

Sites to Check Out
The following sites are additional resources to assist with preparing for and recovering from disaster.

American Red Cross
The American Red Cross not only provides disaster relief nationally, but is part of a global humanitarian network, responding to those in need.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA is an independent agency of the federal government, which provides preparedness and response and recovery support to the nation.
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
NOAA is a federal agency and the primary source of weather data and warnings for the United States.
U.S. Small Business Administration
The SBA is an independent agency of the federal government that aids, counsels, assists and protects the interests of small business concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions about FEMA

What if I don't have enough (or any) insurance?
You may qualify for grants from FEMA, low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration, or the Farm Service Agency, or you may qualify for tax refunds for items that were not covered by insurance.

How do I get assistance?
Information on tax assistance, grants and loans can be obtained at a Disaster Recovery Center, or by calling FEMA at 1-800-462-9029. After your application is reviewed, the damaged property is inspected to verify the loss, and that will determine the type and extent of assistance that will be provided. Audits are done later to ensure that the aid goes only to those who are eligible and that the funds are used for their intended purposes.

What services are available?
FEMA may be able to provide Disaster Housing for up to 18 months, Low Interest Disaster Loans (from the SBA) to cover uninsured property losses, Disaster Grants to earthquake victims who would be unable to repay a loan, and other services such as crises counseling, unemployment assistance, legal aid, and assistance with income tax implications.

When should I apply?
FEMA encourages earthquake victims to apply for aid as soon as possible. The deadline for most individual assistance programs is 60 days following the Presidents major disaster declaration.

What assistance is available from the SBA?
The SBA has a Disaster Loan program that helps homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and nonprofit organizations fund rebuilding after a disaster. The loans generally have low interest rates and long repayment terms to make SBA recovery more affordable.

What if I need more information?
More information is available by visiting FEMA's website at www.fema.gov, and by visiting the SBA website at www.sba.gov. Additionally, you can also contact the IRS about tax relief by calling 1-800-829-1040, or visiting www.irs.gov.

For more advice on protecting things that matter to you most through Alabama car insurance, home insurance and more, contact us today.