October 9th-15th is National Fire Prevention Week.  While many people think of activities for the children, adults can use some good common sense reminders.  Older people are at special risk for death and injury from fires.  Older adults (age 65 and older) are twice as likely to die in fires as any other age group. The death rate for those 85 and over is four times the national average. Older people are also at higher risk of injury from fires. The following tips can help protect you and those you care about from fires and burns.  To protect yourself and those you care about, follow these seven tips from the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Fire Administration:

Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms

Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially inside and outside of sleeping areas. Test and dust each alarm monthly, change the batteries at least once a year, and replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years. Interconnected smoke alarms are best because if one sounds, they all sound.Get smoke alarms that can sound fast. Ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms detect distinctly different, yet potentially fatal, fires. Because no one can predict what type of fire might start in a home, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends that every residence and place where people sleep be equipped with both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor smoke alarms (which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors).

Use Smoking Materials Safely

Never smoke in bed, while drowsy, or while under the influence of medication or alcohol. Use large, deep ashtrays for smoking debris, and let the contents cool before you dispose of them. Never smoke while using oxygen or anywhere near a medical oxygen source, even if it is turned off

Pay Attention to Your Cooking

Keep pot handles turned inward, and keep cooking surfaces and surrounding areas free from clutter and grease build-up. Use pot holders and oven mitts. Never lean over a hot burner and avoid wearing loose clothing with flowing sleeves while cooking. Never leave food that is cooking on the stove unattended.

Heat Your Home Safely

Have a professional service all heating equipment annually. Keep combustibles and anything that can burn or melt away from all heaters, furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters. Never use a range or oven to heat your home.

Practice Electrical Safety

Have a professional electrician inspect your home’s electrical wiring system at least every 10 years, and make recommended repairs. Never overload the electrical system. Plug each appliance directly into its own outlet and avoid using extension cords. Have an electrician install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in rooms where water may be present. Install and maintain electrical appliances according to the manufacturers’ instructions.

Keep Matches and Lighters Away from Children

Store matches and lighters in a locked drawer or a high cabinet away from the reach of grandchildren or other youngsters. Make sure lighters are child-resistant.

Practice two ways out of every room in your home

Get out as soon as you discover a fire; do not try to fight the fire. Once out of the house, stay out; do not attempt to enter a burning home to gather possessions left behind. Immediately dial 9-1-1 or your local emergency number for help, preferably from a neighbor’s phone.

The most important thing when a fire occurs is to get out of the house immediately and stay out, then call the fire department. If you are behind a closed door, feel it with your hand before opening it. If the door is hot, look for another possible exit out of the room. Make sure windows can be unlocked and opened, and security bars released. If you are passing through a smoky area, stoop low so that your head is beneath the smoke. If your clothes catch on fire, stop, gently drop to the ground, cover your face, and roll to smother the flames. Do not try to fight the fire; that will only delay your escape. Leave your possessions behind, and never go back into a burning building for any reason.

A lot of insurance claims are a result of water damage. Even a small leak can become a major problem. Knowing what you’re covered for and how to prevent water damage are equally important. Most hidden water leaks that happen over a long period of time are not covered by the standard homeowner’s policy. They are a listed exclusion. On the other hand, a sudden burst of water (such as a broken pipe), is normally a covered loss. 

The following tips should help you uncover any potential water problems down the road and keep your property dry. 

• Check appliance hoses. Standard hoses are not as durable as they used to be. Replace rubber hoses with steel-braided hoses. This is a low cost fix that can save thousands in water damage. When not using the washing machine, make sure you turn off the water connection. Especially if you will be gone.
• Broken tiles in the shower can allow water to leak into the walls or on the floor. Replace cracked tiles and re-grout when needed.
• Run the dishwasher and washing machines only when you are home. If a leak occurs, you can turn the appliance off right away.
• When on vacation, turn off the main water supply to your home. Be familiar where it is located in case you need to turn it off in a sudden emergency.
• Keep storm drains near your house clear of leaves.
• Install a gutter guard. This can prevent a rooftop disaster caused by drain clogs, and also prevents flooding by water that isn’t carried away from the house.
• Install a water pressure gauge. An inexpensive gauge can prevent damage caused by water pressure that’s too high. Pressure should be between 60 and 80 PSI.

The Henderson County Young Leaders Program is hosting its annual Future Legends of BBQ competition and Barbeque Ball on Saturday October 8, 2011 at Camp Mondamin in Tuxedo. 

The Future Legends of BBQ consists of teams of children (with a supervising adult) cooking ribs, other choices of meats, sides and sauces in competition for awards in all categories and Grand Champion Future Legend of BBQ. The event is licensed by the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) and judged by KCBS-licensed judges according to KCBS rules. Other activities throughout the day include guest appearances and demonstrations by BBQ industry celebrities, live music, inflatables for the kids, concessions, face-painting, and more!  Admission is $5.00 and Kids are free!

The Barbecue Ball is a family-oriented evening of great food from Hubba Hubba Smokehouse in Flat Rock, NC , live music and square-dancing, a silent auction featuring exciting outdoor experiences, games and activities for the kids, and s’mores!

When: October 8, 2011 at Camp Mondamin, NC 4:30-9:30pm
Tickets: Family (2 adults 1-4 children) $100. ∙ Couple $75. ∙ Individual $50.

Competition Schedule Saturday, October 08, 2011

Competition Schedule—Note important turn-in time windows for judging:

• 6AM Competitors arrive, check-in, & set-up to allow ample cooking time
• 7AM Start fires (pre-lit coals/torch will be available)
• 7:30AM Cook’s meeting
• 10:00AM General Admission opens
• 11AM-2PM Live Music
• 2:00PM Ribs judging (turn in no earlier than 1:55 and no later than 2:05)
• 2:30PM Competitor’s Choice judging (turn in no earlier than 2:25/no later than 2:35)
• 3:00PM Sauce judging (turn in no earlier than 2:55 and no later than 3:05)
• 4:00PM Awards
• 4:30PM Pack-up and clean up

Morrow Insurance is a proud sponsor of this event.

Brett Shaffer and Charlie Cranford volunteered last weekend as counselors for Camp BOB.  Held at Kanuga Conference, Camp Bob encourages children to reach their true potential in a place removed from the everyday routine of life, a positive environment where friends encourage each other and counselors help campers achieve their goals.  Camp Bob is one of two camping programs for boys and girls operated by Kanuga Conferences, a conference center affiliated with the Episcopal church. Its desire is to inspire in each camper with what they believe will last them a lifetime — the values of faith, hope and love.  Camp BOB primarily serves children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend summer camp. Churches and organizations sponsor children in their city to attend camp each summer. They have generously committed to paying each child’s camp fee, making this opportunity available to all children.

For more information about Camp BOB, visit:  http://www.kanuga.org/camps/campbob/

Mold can be defined as a growth of minute fungi forming on vegetable or animal matter, commonly as a downy or furry coating, and associated with decay or dampness. Growth of mold may begin with or become exacerbated by water damage that is inadequately repaired. Increasingly, airtight building construction (for purposes of improving energy efficiency) and the recirculation of contaminated air can contribute to the growth of mold as well.

Mold claim costs have increased dramatically over the years. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the typical mold claim costs between $15,000 and $30,000, compared to only $3,000 to $4,000 for an average homeowners claim. Part of this reason is the additional living expenses component of the claim. Frequently, a home owner must temporarily move out of the home due to necessary and major remediation work.

Active mold is fuzzy, velvety, or slimy, and is orange, green, black, brown, pink, or purple in color. If you suspect you have a mold problem in your home, here are some tips to consider.

• Check the inside and outside of the dwelling for leaks and any visual evidence of contaminants since plumbing leaks are a primary cause of mold in homes. This task includes investigating the attic and basement to closely check for dampness and discoloration. It is important that the source of the leak be repaired as quickly as possible.
• If there is a slight amount of mold, used a detergent solution to remove it. Wear a mask, safety goggles, and rubber gloves while performing this task.
• For larger amounts of mold or resistant mold, contact a qualified specialist in the area of mold remediation.
• For moderate or major damage to property, also contact your insurance agent.
• To mold-proof your home, dehumidify your basement during the warm months. Eliminate standing water, and frequently clean and replace furnace filters.
• Regularly check the condition of your roof and exterior finish for any places where water might enter your home.

If mold is suspected of causing an illness, consider the following recommendations.

• Contacting an environmental consultant may be necessary. You should ascertain the credentials of this consultant and contact the references provided. In addition, it is wise to select a consultant who does not perform the actual remediation work or have an interest in a company that does.
• If symptoms persist, a physician who specializes in occupational and environmental medicine (rather than a family practitioner) should be consulted. The specialist is often able to more easily isolate the cause.

Copyright 2011
International Risk Management Institute, Inc.

The annual United Way of Henderson County Day of Caring was held on September 16,2011.  Several Morrow employees participated, beginning with the kick off breakfast at Blue Ridge Community College.  Pictured are Charlie Cranford, Amy Tayler and Colleen Hobbick, along with a BRCC student, where they volunteered for a painting project at the Salvation Army building.  Another Morrow employee, Linda Thomas, assisted in setting up the event.  Linda is participating for her fourth year as a “Loaned Executive” from Morrow to the United Way of Henderson County.  Thanks to all who participated in the Day of Caring to help make it a success.

The United Way of Henderson County has selected 21 young Henderson County professionals to participate in the pilot year of the Rising Leaders Program.  Morrow Insurance Agency, Inc. is proud to announce that Brett Shaffer has been selected to represent our agency. Sponsored by Friday Staffing, this program is a direct response to a need that many Henderson County non-profit agencies have expressed in the recent past – a need for access to the next generation of Board members and key volunteers.

Over the next eight months United Way will be training participants in the essential knowledge and skills for board service: the demographics and needs of our community; the principles of governance and management of a non-profit; the rights and responsibilities of Board Members; best practices of financial and legal leadership; and the basics of fundraising. Participants will be introduced to local non-profit leaders and exposed to a variety of volunteer opportunities.

To read the full article, click here.

Morrow Insurance Agency is a proud supporter of the United Way of Henderson County.

Condo insurance is not like a standard homeowner’s policy. The Condo association usually covers the building structure and common areas, but what about potential structural damage to your unit and covering personal items? Without a personal condo insurance policy, you could be left self insuring.

Most condos need two insurance policies. The master policy (generally provided by your condo association) usually covers the physical structure of the building, including basement, roof, walls, elevators, lobbies, etc.  Most of the time, coverage includes both physical damage and liability. You need to get a copy of the policy to know what’s covered. Each policy is different.

Once you have a copy of the master policy, then you will know how to purchase your personal condo policy. This will cover additional structural damage to your unit that is excluded in the master policy. Some examples of what may be excluded by the master, but could be covered with the personal are: cabinets, fixtures, interior drywall, etc. The personal policy will also cover living expenses if your condo becomes uninhabitable due to a claim and personal liability.

The Henderson County Chamber of Commerence is hosting a very informative seminar to help contractors improve their profitability.

Improving Contractor Profitability

SEPTEMBER 13TH FROM 9 AM – 11 AM

Presented by Business Turnaround Expert Bob Papes

This seminar will cover: Key Ways to Maximize Profitability, New Business Development, Two Basic Types of Business Development (marketing and sales), Non-Traditional Marketing Programs (word of mouth and staying in touch), Expanding Your Market, Networking, Selling to Develop New Business, Sales Reps, Free Way to Generate Additional Business, Being Cost Competitive, Fully Burdened Labor Costs, Scheduling Software and more.

$10 for Chamber Members, $15 for Non-Members

Flood Recovery Information

In response to recent flooding caused by Hurricane Irene, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has developed the following materials to help assist residents recovering from flood damage and navigate the flood insurance claims process.

• After the Flood fact sheet: Helpful information for residents as they return home.
• Filing Your Flood Insurance Claim: A checklist for policyholders as they navigate the claims process.
• NFIP Summary of Coverage: An explanation to help policyholders understand their flood insurance policy.
• NFIP Flood Insurance Claims Handbook: A step-by-step guide to filing a claim.

In addition, the following tips may be helpful to residents returning to flood-damaged areas.

• Beware of Hazards. Check for damage, including structural damage before re-entering your home. Contact the appropriate professionals immediately if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric and sewer lines. Throw away water-damaged food including canned goods that have come in contact with floodwaters. Boil water until local authorities declare the water supply safe to drink.
• File your Flood Insurance Claim. Call your agent who handles your flood insurance to file a claim. Have the following information with you when you place your call: (1) the name of your insurance company (your agent may write policies for more than one company); (2) your policy number; and (3) a telephone number/e-mail address where you can be reached.
• Take photographs. To make filing your claim easier, take photographs of any water in the house and damaged personal property. If necessary, place these items outside the home. Your adjuster will need evidence of the damage and damaged items (e.g.: cut swatches from carpeting, curtains, chairs) to prepare your repair estimate.
• Make a list of damaged or lost items and include their age and value where possible. If possible, have receipts for those lost items available for the adjuster. Local officials may require the disposal of damaged items. If so, keep a swatch or other sample of the item(s) for the adjuster.
• Gather any documents, such as photographs, receipts and itemized lists you made prior to the flood.
• Prevent mold and remove wet contents immediately.
• Work with the adjuster to calculate the damage in order to prepare an accurate estimate.
• Resources are available. The American Red Cross offers a free Repairing Your Flooded Home guide. This guide will help you as you first re-enter your damaged home.
• For FEMA Disaster Assistance call 1-800-621-3362. For general flood insurance questions call 1-800-427-4661.

Morrow Insurance will be closing at 3:00 pm on Friday, September 2nd to give our employees an early start to the Labor Day weekend.  We will be closed on Monday, September 5th and will reopen at 9:00 am on Tuesday, September 6th.  We wish everyone a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!

This weekend is the 65th North Carolina Apple Festival in Hendersonville.  Entertainment, food, crafts and of course, everything apple.  The festivities officially begin on Friday, September 2nd with the opening ceremonies and continue through the parade on Monday September 5th.  Come out for a weekend of fun!

Henderson County is a leading grower of apples, and apple farming has been an important part of our local economy for many years.  As a leading insurer of the apple crop, Morrow Insurance is proud to support our farming community.

Morrow Insurance is a Golden Delicious Sponsor of the North Carolina Apple Festival.

As Hurricane Irene approaches the Eastern North Carolina area, we wanted to make sure you and your family are aware of the steps you can take to stay safe as the storm approaches.  Although it looks like Western North Carolina will escape the direct effects, some of our clients have homes at the coast.

Safety for individuals

• Create a disaster plan. Plan an evacuation route in advance and determine where you would go if you were told to evacuate.
• Prepare a survival kit. Stock up on drinking water, non-perishable goods, a first-aid kit and medicine for everyone including your pet. Include extra clothing, blankets, batteries, flashlights and a portable radio.
• Conduct a home hazard hunt and make your home as safe as possible. Secure all outdoor objects such as garbage cans and lawn furniture. Close storm shutters and board up all windows.
• Review how to shut off utilities in an emergency with all family members.
• Locate important papers and documents and have them ready to take with you should you need to evacuate. Protect documents in plastic storage bags if you’re remaining in your home.
• Make sure you have insurance policies with claim contact information, an inventory of your home’s contents and cash.
• Ask an out-of-state friend to be your family contact. After a disaster, it’s often easier to call long-distance than to make a local call.
• Finally, leave promptly when ordered to evacuate. Leaving too late or not leaving at all only endangers yourself and others.

Safety for businesses

In addition, you and your business insurance customers should consider taking the following precautions to help protect people and property and guard against disruption of operations:

• Review your business continuity plan and communicate emergency evacuation and business interruption instructions to employees. If you don’t have a written plan, now is the time to create one. Each business should have an emergency plan including a detailed procedure for evacuation, a checklist for shutting down processes and protecting buildings, contents, equipment, and yard storage. Procedures should include salvage instructions to follow post-event.
• Back up critical data and computer records off-site so that operations can continue after a disaster. Consider keeping a backup generator and plenty of batteries on hand so your business can continue to operate after a power loss.

As a hurricane approaches, quick actions should to be taken to install temporary protection features including:

• Shutter or board up windows to protect them from flying debris
• Clean out floor drains and catch basins to ensure maximum drainage
• Anchor structures, trailers and yard storage so they are more likely to stay put in high winds
• Fill emergency generator and fire pump fuel tanks
• Shut down production processes safely
• Shut off all flammable and combustible liquid and gas lines at their source
• Shut off electrical power at the main building disconnect before the hurricane strikes

Once the storm has subsided and it is safe to return, a salvage team should be assembled and repair work prioritized, assuring proper supplies are available and safety procedures followed.

Before the storm, make sure you make a note of your insurance company’s 24 hour claims number, just in case you need it.  Your Morrow Insurance agent will be on duty at 9:00am Monday, August 29th to assist you with any claims issues.

With this week’s earthquake in Virginia, some of our clients are left wondering, “Do I have earthquake coverage?”  Damages associated with earthquakes are not covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy, although some subsequent damage may be eligible for coverage, depending on your policy. You can purchase a separate earthquake insurance policy that will give you peace of mind. Such insurance covers both the structure and the contents of a home.  Some insurance companies offer an earthquake endorsement to home insurance policies. Ask your insurance agent if such endorsements are available.  For more information concerning your specific coverages, contact your Morrow Insurance Agent.

At Morrow Insurance we believe in community involvement and support.  This is not only true of our employees, but their families as well.  The United Way of Henderson County 2010 Ochlawaha Society Book of Leaders features Will & Kandi Hendricks with their children.  Although Will has lived in our community just over a year, he has established himself as a valuable citizen and is a member of the Board of Directors of the United Way of Henderson County and the Henderson County Young Leaders Program.  According to Will, “The United Way is a great way to support many deserving nonprofits in our community.  Kandi and I are fortunate to be a part of this fine organization.”