Stay Safe This Summer: Essential Insurance Tips for a Worry-Free Season
Summer in Rhode Island is a time for beach days, cookouts, boating, and family road trips. But with all the fun comes a variety of risks that could lead to accidents, injuries, or even property damage if you're not prepared. At The Slocum Agency, Inc., we want to make sure your summer is safe, enjoyable, and fully covered.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to summer safety—from home to highway to the harbor—plus how the right insurance can give you peace of mind.
☀️ 1. Sun and Heat Safety at Home
Risk: Heat waves can strain your HVAC system and increase the risk of house fires, especially if you're using fans, grills, or outdoor power equipment.
Tips:
Service your HVAC system early in the season.
Keep grills at least 10 feet from your home or deck railings.
Store propane tanks outside and away from heat sources.
Insurance Insight: Homeowners insurance may cover fire damage, but policies vary on what’s included. Ask your agent if your policy covers outdoor kitchens, grills, or guest injuries during a backyard BBQ.
🏖 2. Pool & Water Safety
Risk: Pools and trampolines are "attractive nuisances" and increase your liability risk—especially when hosting guests or neighbors.
Tips:
Always supervise children around pools.
Install fencing and safety gates.
Keep lifesaving equipment nearby.
Insurance Insight: You may need to increase your liability coverage or add a personal umbrella policy. Let us know if you’ve added a pool, hot tub, or trampoline so we can update your policy accordingly.
🚗 3. Summer Driving & Road Trips
Risk: Vacation traffic, teen drivers home from school, and long road trips can lead to increased accident risk.
Tips:
Check tires, brakes, and fluids before any trip.
Never leave pets or kids in a parked car.
Stay alert—especially during summer storms or beach traffic.
Insurance Insight: Make sure your auto insurance has adequate liability and comprehensive coverage, especially if you're renting a car or letting someone else drive your vehicle.
🍔 4. Grill and Campfire Safety
Risk: Grilling accidents and fire pit misuse can lead to burns, injuries, and property damage.
Tips:
Clean grease buildup from grills regularly.
Never leave open flames unattended.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when cooking outdoors.
Insurance Insight: Fire-related incidents may be covered under your homeowners insurance, but intentional misuse or neglect may void claims. If you’re unsure, ask us to review your current policy.
🛥 5. Boating & Jet Ski Coverage
Risk: Accidents on the water, whether from lack of experience or unexpected weather, can cause damage or injury.
Tips:
Always wear life jackets.
Avoid alcohol while operating watercraft.
Check the weather before heading out.
Insurance Insight: A boat insurance policy can cover liability, damage, theft, and even fuel spills. If you only use your watercraft in the summer, ask about seasonal options.
🏡 6. Vacations and Second Homes
Risk: Vacant homes or unmonitored vacation properties are more prone to break-ins, weather damage, or water leaks.
Tips:
Set up remote monitoring or have a neighbor check in.
Shut off water to prevent pipe bursts.
Install smart sensors for smoke or water leaks.
Insurance Insight: A secondary or seasonal home policy ensures your vacation property is protected even when you're not there. Don’t assume your primary home insurance extends coverage.
🧳 7. Travel Insurance for Summer Trips
Risk: Flight delays, cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies can ruin a vacation and cost thousands.
Tips:
Book with cancellation flexibility when possible.
Keep digital copies of important travel documents.
Check for international coverage if traveling abroad.
Insurance Insight: Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, delays, emergency evacuation, and medical care. Ask us if it’s worth adding before your next big getaway.
🌊 8. Hurricane Preparedness (Yes, in RI!)
Risk: Summer also marks the beginning of hurricane season in Rhode Island.
Tips:
Trim trees and secure loose outdoor items.
Create an evacuation plan.
Review your flood insurance—even if you're not in a flood zone.
Insurance Insight: Homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage. Be sure to ask us about adding or reviewing your flood policy. Waiting until a storm is approaching could be too late—most flood policies have a 30-day waiting period.
Ready for a Safe and Protected Summer?
At The Slocum Agency, Inc., we’ve been protecting Rhode Island families for decades—so you can enjoy your summer worry-free. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, boating on Narragansett Bay, or hitting the road, our local team is here to help review your coverage and make sure you're protected.
📞 Call us at (401) 738-3366
💻 Visit us at www.slocumins.com
📍 Located in Warwick, proudly serving all of Rhode Island
