You’ve probably heard this horror story before – someone loses a home due to a flood and learns after the fact that standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want you to be educated about all of the risks you may face in New York – before a loss occurs – so you can determine what insurance coverage is appropriate. Spring is a prime season for flooding and hurricane season is about to start, so now is a good time to…

There’s nothing quite like driving a speedy, shiny classic car that turns heads and starts conversations. In fact, the beauty and elegance of old collectibles – like the 1964 Aston Martin DB5, the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray and the 1969 Dodge Charger – can be downright captivating. If you don’t happen to own one of these timeless beauties, it may not mean you will never own a classic. In fact, there are many automobile aficionados and industry experts that predict we can…

Now that summer’s over and the weather is cooling down, it’s time to think about pulling your boat out and putting it away until next year. But before you do, it’s also time to make sure your boat is ready for the winter – and still has the right insurance protection. After all, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want to make sure you’re ready for the next boating season! (And maybe, just maybe, you’ll also be ready to invite your…

It’s an exciting time when your child is heading off to ‘college’. Whether they’re headed to school in New York or all the way across the country, there are a ton of things to get done – and a ton of things to pack! But one of the most important things they’ll need at school is something that doesn’t have to be packed at all – the right insurance coverage. Of course, that’s what we at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency are here for! We’re…

You’ve probably been at the rental-car counter, listening to the representative ask if you want to purchase the company’s insurance. And the thoughts start racing through your head. “Do I really need this? Doesn’t my regular auto policy cover me? What about my credit card? Why didn’t I figure this out before I left on my trip?” At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we are here to help. And while not every situation is the same, we’ve got some general tips that will…

Why should I have a home inventory? Your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports or hobby equipment, and electronic goods are all regarded as personal property. Like many people in New York, you may own much more than you realize. Comparing the value of your belongings to the “contents” limit listed in your policy helps you make sure you have enough insurance to replace them if they are lost, stolen or destroyed as a result of a covered loss. If that’s not enough to…

Ah, Valentine’s Day is near, and love is in the air. Well, love and a few other things, such as chocolates, romantic dinners, candy hearts that say “Be Mine” – and, of course, jewelry. It’s exciting to receive jewelry from a loved one – or to give it as a gift. Not to mention romantic. But if you’re lucky enough to have some new jewelry in your New York home this Valentine’s Day, you should take a few minutes to think about something you…

When choosing auto insurance, you want complete coverage for the best price. There’s a lot to think about when choosing auto insurance. In some states, to license your car you must carry liability coverage for damages incurred by others if you cause an accident, or no-fault coverage to pay for medical and related expenses for you and your passengers caused by injuries from a car accident, regardless of fault; or carry both. Check with JWH Insurance at 631-421-2525 or shirschfeld@jwhinsurance.com to…

We love it here in Northeast, and Long Island, but summertime is the time for getting away! And whether your escape is by air, land or sea, J.W.Hirschfeld Agency can help ensure you are covered. Just because you’re on vacation, though, doesn’t mean you can stop thinking about safety. These tips will help you and your family get the most out of your trip – and help you get back to Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown safe and sound. Does my insurance come on vacation with…

Whether you own a Jet Ski, a small ski boat, fishing boat, or a 26-foot cruiser, knowing that you’re covered by the right insurance should give you the peace of mind to relax and enjoy every minute. What We Insure We represent insurance companies that insure a full range of recreational boats including: Bass boats Fish and ski Cabin cuisers Sailboats Pontoons Jet boats Ski boats Runabouts Jon boats Personal watercraft Why Insure Your Boat or…

Buying, selling or insuring a boat in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport or Smithtown? First you’ll need to know how much your boat and/or motor is worth. Here are a few popular pricing guides as references. NADA BUC Also, you can check out the prices on boats similar to yours using these sites: IBoats Boats.com Boat Trader Boat Valuation and Insurance Coverage Tips New York, Residents Any permanently attached equipment is included in the boat’s value, so make sure your insurance…

Insuring a condominium in New York is different than insuring a home. And the biggest difference is knowing where your responsibilities begin and end. That’s why it really pays to work with a knowledgeable insurance agent like J.W.Hirschfeld Agency. Read on, or call us at 631-421-2525. Your Condo Insurance Coverage Options Your condo association buys insurance for the building and common areas. In choosing your condo policy, you should consider the areas of the building that you…

Your home may be worth as much or more than your retirement account. As a result, it makes sense to track your home insurance as carefully as you do your 401k. Getting Started with JWH Insurance If you haven’t checked in recently, you might consider contacting J.W.Hirschfeld Agency at 631-421-2525 or shirschfeld@jwhinsurance.com to schedule an annual review of your home’s value and contents. We want you to be relieved, knowing you’ve made informed decisions about the amount of home insurance…

What’s the secret to selecting the right amount of insurance coverage? Simple – the more information you provide, the easier JWH Insurance can create a homeowner’s policy that’s right for you. Homeowners Insurance From JWH Insurance Is Here to Protect You Consider these scenarios: If your New York state home was destroyed by fire or damaged by a natural disaster, you’d need money to repair or replace it. If a guest in your home is injured,…

Business news often reports that it’s difficult for teenagers to find work here in New York but nonetheless, as summer approaches thousands of teenagers will enter the workforce, many for the first time. This is an important first-step for teenagers who enter into these jobs each with their own set of expectations. Oftentimes those expectations are related solely to the money they’ll earn and what it can buy, not as their first life-lesson in developing a work ethic they…

Slips and falls are the second leading causes of loss for business in New York. And they can be prevented with a few maintenance and cleaning procedures. Most slips and falls are caused by the floor surface being too slippery from either moisture or from lack of friction due to built up debris on the surface. J.W.Hirschfeld Agency wants you, your employees and customers to be safe at your business – so keep these helpful tips in mind: Check Your Floor Friction Clean floors are safe…

Motorcyclists know that riding gives them a freedom that driving a car just can’t match. But the best riders also know that motorcycles require more focus to operate and don’t provide the same protections cars do in the event of a crash. The best riders also take great care in all situations, whether they’re in heavy traffic in Huntington and Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown, stuck in the rain or just taking a quick ride on a perfect day. If your habits aren’t as safe as they…

As springtime approaches, you may be noticing something in addition to the warmer weather and awakening plants: More motorcycles on the roads in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown. Riding looks like a lot of fun, doesn’t it? Just imagine heading down New York highways with the sun shining and the road stretching out to the horizon. There are other benefits motorcycle riders enjoy as well, such as lower fuel costs and easier parking; but riding a motorcycle safely requires different skills than driving…

Winter is here, and with it comes many traditions and activities: Holiday celebrations with loved ones in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown, skiing and snowboarding outings in the mountains, fireplace-lit living rooms, homemade batches of soup… and shoveling snow. Should you live somewhere in New York where snow storms could hit and cover your driveway and walkways with the cold white stuff, you might want to just stay inside. But if your work and personal commitments make that impossible,…

The holidays can be a great time to get out of Huntington or Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown to visit family you rarely get to see, hit the slopes or flee to the beach. Regardless of how you spend your time away, you need to ensure your house stays safe while you’re gone. A house left empty can be an opportunity for burglars, so before you pack your bags, prepare to protect the stuff that’s staying at home in New York. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want to…

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That’s why it’s important to know how to prevent it, detect it, and protect yourself and your family from its effects. In the home, carbon monoxide is most commonly formed by flames and heaters, as well as vehicles or generators that are running in an attached garage. As temperatures drop and more people are cranking the heat and hovering over the…

It’s a night full of treats for both kids and adults in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown. But a number of factors – including lots of people walking in the dark, the threat of wet and stormy weather, strangers coming to your door – mean that Halloween in New York can have some tricks up its sleeve. Here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want your Halloween to be a happy one. So whether you’re taking your kids out trick-or-treating, hosting a party or just staying home to greet costumed…

The end of summer means many things, such as cooler weather, shorter days and … the start of football here in New York! But most important, it means kids are headed back to school. And that means we all should be extra careful on the roads, in school zones and around buses in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown. Don’t forget to watch for bikes, too! Here are some tips for both parents and kids to make sure everyone stays safe. Use caution on…

For a lot of people in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown, summer means getting out on the water and Long Island Sound. And you don’t even need a boat to do it – personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis and WaveRunners, provide a fun and accessible way to enjoy the water. However, these small, fast and maneuverable watercraft present their own set of safety issues. So if you’re planning to make waves, let us at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency help you out with some safety…

The call of the open road is at its strongest during the summer – and so is the call of the convertible. If you’re one of those drivers who has long dreamed of dropping the top and heading across New York and beyond, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency have some buying tips for you. And before we forget, make sure you’ve got plenty of sunscreen! Safety considerations Of course, you want to be safe when driving your new car{regional_designations:cond} in…

For most of us, the Fourth of July is a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, having fun and creating memories – whether at home or away in New York. But for some families, the holiday is a nightmare. Homes each year in New York are damaged by wayward fireworks. Thousands of people are injured in accidents. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want your holiday to be happy, but also safe. So here are some tips to help you…

For most of us, July 4th is a day to enjoy the pyrotechnics that traditionally mark the holiday. But for our pets, fireworks are another story – they can be traumatized by the noisy rockets and firecrackers so many of us enjoy. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we hope your holiday is happy and safe for you and your pets. So along with our other story about fireworks safety, here are some tips to help you protect your pets on the Fourth in New York{states_secondary:cond},…

High school is full of defining moments for Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown teens and two of the highlights for most are prom and graduation. However, this time of year often sees other, more tragic defining moments – serious car accidents involving teens who are distracted or even under the influence of alcohol or drugs. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want to help make this season one to celebrate for you and your teen. So, with the help of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, here are some tips…

Almost anywhere it rains, it can flood. Even if you live in an area of that you think isn’t at risk, preparation is just as critical as with other types of emergencies. Before we get into how you can prevent, limit or react to flooding, it’s important to note that flood damage is typically not covered by your homeowners or renters insurance. There are specialized flood insurance programs that we at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency can discuss with you. Just contact us at 631-421-2525 or…

When purchasing a trailer in New York 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…

You’ll no doubt hear the phrase “Happy Holidays!” about a thousand times over the next month or two. Here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we’d like to change that a little bit: “Happy – and Safe – Holidays!” While the holidays certainly bring cheer here in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown, they also present some danger unless you take care when putting up your tree, lighting candles and keeping that fire going on a cold winter night. During November and December, according to…

For many of our neighbors in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard – often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly. Each year about 400,000 people are treated for injuries from lawn and garden tools, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Don’t let your landscaping efforts land you in the hospital! Follow these handy safety tips. Tool Safety Tips From the U.S. CPSC Dress appropriately….

Whether you live in New York, or elsewhere, hail storms don’t last long, but they pack a real punch. Every year, hail causes nearly $1 billion in damages, mostly to repair roofs and cars. A single series of evening storms in North Texas in May of 2011 caused an estimated $200 million to $300 million in damages, according to one estimate.* You can save hundreds of dollars and hours of clean-up by making sure you understand your coverage, and taking some precautions, including…

To stay safe on Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown streets, you need the right skills to control your ride, and the best safety equipment for just-in-case. J.W.Hirschfeld Agency cares about your safety – so keep these helpful tips in mind when you ride: When You Ride, whether it’s in Northeast, or Long Island – Be Prepared and Protected Update our Policy when You Update Your Equipment Make sure each piece of equipment is listed on your policy. Any time you buy new…

Being on the water in your boat can be a real joy, but it pays to know what to do if you’re involved in an accident in New York, or if something happens to your personal watercraft (PWC) when it’s on shore. A capsized PWC may take on water, but it is designed not to sink. If you fall from a moving craft, hit the water rear end first, with legs together and arms over your head. A safety lanyard, attached to your wrist or life vest, should…

At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency we recognize one of the fastest growing American pastimes is recreational boating. While many boaters cruise in sailboats and powerboats, personal watercraft (PWC) have become a popular way to enjoy the water too. Recreational boaters use them as tenders on larger boats, to water ski, commute and just for spring and summer fun. The following items will acquaint you with some information you should know before hitting the water{rivers:cond},…

In most places in the United States, Sunday, March 13, 2011, is Daylight Saving, when clocks are moved forward one hour. Regardless of whether Daylight Saving Time is recognized where you live, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want to suggest it’s still a great time to improve your family’s safety. Be safe in your Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport or Smithtown home Health and safety agencies often use the approach of Daylight Saving Time to remind people to change the batteries in their smoke alarms. The American…

Avoid any delays and unexpected problems when you take your recreational vehicle or motorhome out for what should be a relaxing trip from Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport or Smithtown. Follow some of our suggestions below, and consider investing in some maintenance and safety classes to help ensure happy travels across New York and beyond. Take Care of Your Tires When you’re not traveling, keep your recreational vehicle/motorhome tires covered to protect…

Your Identity Belongs to You. Some Suggestions From J.W.Hirschfeld Agency to Help Protect It. One smart and effective way to protect yourself against identity theft in places like Northeast, and Long Island is to prevent it. If your identity is stolen, you’ll be able to lessen problems by acting quickly, whether you live in New York, or elsewhere. Start with Good Habits in Nassau County and Suffolk County Print out a copy of this page and store it in a convenient place…

Believe it or not, every state in the U.S. has some degree of risk from earthquakes, including New York. If you live in an area susceptible to earthquakes, make sure you speak with J.W.Hirschfeld Agency in order to determine whether you are covered, or if you should purchase separate earthquake coverage. Know If You Have Earthquake Coverage from JWH Insurance J.W.Hirschfeld Agency will talk you through your options and discuss home improvements that can make it eligible for an earthquake…

If the unthinkable happens, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency understand 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…

Buying a new car in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport or Smithtown 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. Here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, 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…

Simple steps can lead to savings in your pocket. Spending less money is much easier than perfecting your tight turns at high speeds on a gravel road. Take a look at some simple ways to lower your motorcycle insurance costs for New York, riders like you. Ride More. Worry Less. More expensive motorcycle = more expensive insurance Before you buy a motorcycle, check with J.W.Hirschfeld Agency to see what it will cost to insure it. Expensive bikes cost more to repair,…

Insurance might be a necessity, but spending lots of money on it isn’t. We here at JWH Insurance know that you’d rather be mapping out your next destination instead of worrying about your bank balance, so read our recommendations below and start saving. If you live in New York, we can help! Splurge on New York Souvenirs Instead of Insurance Safety saves: Not only is it smart, but a clean, safe driving record can also lower your rates. The safety equipment you…

How much you pay for insurance depends on many factors. Following the suggestions below may help you lower the cost of your classic car or collector vehicle insurance at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency in New York. Before you buy If you’re thinking of buying a classic car or antique automobile, check with J.W.Hirschfeld Agency to inquire what it will cost to insure. Usually expensive vehicles cost more to repair, maintain and insure. Insure with one company The more policies you have with one…

Who doesn’t want to save money on homeowners insurance? For homeowners and renters in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown – and elsewhere – you have options when it comes to lowering your home insurance costs. Northeast, and Long Island – How You Can Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Cost Combine policies to increase savings. Insuring both your auto and home with a single company often qualifies you for discounts on BOTH policies. Ask an agent at…

Drivers ask the team at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency this more than just about anything else – how do you save money on auto insurance policies? There are a number of factors that go into determining the cost of your car insurance premiums, and JWH Insurance has some helpful suggestions to help you lower your costs. In New York, What Things Can You Do to Keep Your Policy Costs Low? The kind of car counts. Luxury cars and performance vehicles cost more to repair, maintain and insure than…

If you’re an avid boating enthusiast and you’ve tired of the typically exhausting practice of hauling your boat to and from your favorite body of water, waiting in lines at launch ramps and winching it in and out every time you boat, it may be time to consider renting a boat slip. Marina boat slips vary from one another, but all of them offer many advantages to boaters who spend a lot of time on the water. Some of their many benefits include:…

If you love the water, few things are better than boating season. Summer just wouldn’t be summer without spending those long, hot days, cooling off with a lazy dip in the water, dropping a line in hopes of catching a “big one,” or having an action-packed day of waterskiing and tubing. Boating is not without its share of pre-summer preparation. If you’re not on the ball early, it’s easy to find yourself midway through July still on…

You know that taking to the road in your RV is fun – that’s why you do it! But vacationing on the road can have its troubles, like dead batteries, flat tires and missed destinations because of wrong directions. Wouldn’t it be great if there were tools and gadgets to help avoid these situations? We at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want to help make your upcoming RV trips not only easier but also better, whether you’re headed to a far-flung national park or just a local campground in…

With the days getting longer and the weather starting to get warmer, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency are 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. Beat the wintertime blues You can take solace in the fact that spring will eventually be here. In the meantime, here are some quick tips from Johns Hopkins University to avoid the “winter…

For many, the holiday season is a time for celebration and fun with loved ones. But for othersin Nassau County and Suffolk County and Northeast, and Long Island, the season can be one of the loneliest times of the year. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we know how precious the gift of time can mean to someone in Huntington during the holidays. Here are a few ways you and your family can share the spirit of the holidays with others. Share a holiday dinner…

The holiday season is here – time to eat good food and join together with loved ones. For many who have families far away, this is also is the time to pack up and get out of New York. If you are gearing up to travel and have pets at home, you’re probably considering their holiday options, perhaps a dog sitter, cat spa or kennel. If you just can’t bear leaving your furry friends behind, you’re in luck! With the following tips, you and your cuddly companions can be on…

As the holidays approach, regular habits tend to fall to the wayside. Folks who are consistently rested lose sleep, habitual fitness fanatics sink into recliners and, occasionally, even the most environmentally committed citizens loosen up on their personal rules. With a little know-how, along with a promise to give to the New York environment just as you do to your loved ones over the holidays, you can be just as “green” as you are the rest of the year, if not even greener. At…

It goes without saying that keeping yourself and your family healthy through the holiday season in New York can be a challenge. When you combine chillier temps, housebound days, year-end deadlines and pre-holiday preparation – not to mention kids passing around colds at school like they’re playing “Hot Potato” – you can end up spending the holidays under the covers. No matter how many inherent seasonal risk factors you face, there are ways to prepare for and…

The seasons are changing, and the colors of autumn abound. Regrettably, fall’s stunning display is often accompanied by some unwelcome weather hazards in New York – namely, wind – that can cause considerable damage to the very trees that produce those beautiful fall leaves. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want your yard and home to stay great throughout the season. Take a look at the following tips to ensure you keep your trees and shrubs healthy and avoid destruction that can…

Finally, we’re welcoming fall, that eagerly anticipated season when we get to enjoy cooler temps, colorful leaves, the start of school and, of course, football season in New York! Football season in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown brings with it a whole host of seasonal activities for football fans, from game-day tailgates and sports bar outings, to friendly bets and bowl parties. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we want your football season to be both exciting and safe, so as you cheer your team to victory,…

Summer has ended, but there’s no need to fret here in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown: Fall brings with it crisp, cool days, wonderful colors – and football season! It also brings some maintenance tasks. We here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency recommend you ensure your home is ready for fall and winter weather in New York. Check out the following information for some general tips from the National Association of Home Builders, and don’t hesitate to call us at 631-421-2525 if you have questions…

There’s nothing quite like taking a road trip in an RV. Whether you’re headed to somewhere nearby in New York, or somewhere farther away this summer, we at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want you to get the most out of your travels. General travel tips Have a plan. (And maps, or a GPS.) One of the reasons you’re traveling in an RV, no doubt, is for the adventure. But while the freedom to go wherever you want in New York can…

With summer drawing near and the weather warming up, New York neighborhoods come alive with the sights and sounds of the season: Lawnmowers, power tools and backyard barbecues, to name a few. For many people, those things all bring to mind one specific person: Dad. And since Father’s Day is just around the corner, we at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency thought we’d give you some gift ideas – and a bit of a history lesson, too! The history of Father’s Day Marked on the third Sunday…

Whether you’re planning a trip to a local attraction in New York this summer, or headed all the way across the country, you want your vacation to be relaxing. It’s a getaway from work, not to mention your day-to-day life. So we’ve got some tips – from packing smart to protecting yourself from pickpockets – to make your trip the best it can be. Before you go Even if you’re only headed across the…

Ah, Memorial Day – the long weekend that serves as the unofficial kickoff to summer – is almost here. It’s a time for road trips, barbecues and all kinds of outdoor activities in and around New York. Of course, we at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want your long weekend to be a safe one, too. So here are some things to keep in mind as you celebrate the holiday. Having a barbecue? A gathering of family and friends for a backyard barbecue is perhaps one of the most common Memorial Day…

Spring is a time of new beginnings in New York – and now is a great time to take on some cleaning and organization tasks around your home. If you’re anything like many of us here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, some of these tasks are long overdue! Here are some tips to get you started in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown – and keep you focused. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we’re looking forward to using these tips ourselves! First, get some help If you’re doing a deep spring clean, try not to…

As the second Sunday of May nears, it’s time to think of ways to celebrate mothers – although, of course, that’s a worthy pursuit at any time of year! At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we thought it would be fun to give you a little of the history behind Mother’s Day, as well as a few ideas to honor the special women in all our lives. Ancient beginnings According to MothersDayCentral.com, the ancient Egyptians held an annual festival to honor “the mother of the…

Boat Maintenance Tips for New York Proper maintenance can extend the life of your boat, reduce the need for costly repairs, and help ensure the safety of your passengers in New York. Clean and Care for Your Boat, whether it’s in Northeast, or Long Island Wash your boat regularly to prevent the long-term effects of environmental wear and tear. Routine waxing and the use of an anti-fouling paint can also help protect your boat from the…

Although they are often skippered by teens and young adults, boats are not toys. Both the craft and its operator must comply with all Federal and state requirements, no matter whether you live in New York or elsewhere. If you’re heading out on the water, , or elsewhere, be prepared. Federal regulations require that most watercraft be registered and have an identification number. A validation sticker…

In most places in the United States, Sunday, March 11, 2012, is Daylight Saving, when clocks are moved forward one hour. We here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want to remind you it’s also a great time to improve your family’s safety. Be safe in your Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown home Health and safety agencies often use the approach of Daylight Saving Time to remind people to change the batteries in their smoke alarms. The American Red Cross suggests you test your smoke alarms and talk with your family…

Of course, because spring is a time for new beginnings, cleaning and organization around the house are very popular this time of year. If you’re ready to tackle that monumental chore, read on for some helpful information. (And if you’re so tidy and organized throughout the year that spring cleaning isn’t a big chore for you, well, keep that to yourself! Unless you want your friends and neighbors to be jealous, that is.) Take it one room at a time. Deciding to clean or organize…

If you live or vacation where the weather gets cold and the snow starts falling, some people are content to cozy up next to the fire with a good book and concentrate on staying warm. For others, though, it’s time to get excited – because it’s time to break out the snowmobiles and head to the nearest winter recreation spot. It’s a popular activity, and for good reason: Snowmobiling allows you to explore natural areas that may be hard to access by foot (or snowshoe), and…

Millions of Americans will do some traveling this holiday season – the majority of it by car. Of course, winter weather creates a unique set of challenges on the roadways, whether you’re simply driving around in Huntington or headed to Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown. At J.W.Hirschfeld Agency, we’d like to help you not only enjoy your holiday season, but help ensure you’ll be around for future holidays, too! So please take these winter-travel safety tips to heart. Prepare your car…

First things first: If you’re a snowbird, and headed away from Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown this winter to a sunnier and warmer spot, you can move on to the next article. Just know that we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency wish you a safe journey – and that we’re all a little jealous. But no hard feelings; we’ll still be here, standing ready should you need us. But for those RV owners who aren’t able to escape the winter weather in New York, or who are simply storing their RV in a…

Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters. All are common issues here in New York, 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 in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown? 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…

Whether you’ve got a rowboat or a big cabin cruiser, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency want to make sure you have the tips you need to keep your boat protected when it’s not in use. The first step in winterizing your boat should be to make a list of all your winterization tasks. Check your boat and motor owner’s manuals for manufacturer recommendations on winterization and review the topics below. If you are a…

Just like hamburgers and hot dogs, a sizzling grill is a symbol of summer in Huntington, Cold Spring Harbor, Northport and Smithtown. And grilling isn’t just about great food. Backyard barbecues often create treasured memories with friends and family. Keep in mind, however, that when you grill, you’re literally playing with fire. Thousands of New York residents each year learn this the hard way, suffering damage to their homes or even serious injuries in grilling accidents. There’s good news, though: You can…

We’ve all seen the dramatic effect hurricanes, tropical depressions and other severe storms can have on the coast and even far inland – both the initial wind and rain and the floods that follow. According to NOAA, 19 states from Texas to Maine have been directly hit by hurricanes. any more have been affected by torrential rains and tornadoes as those weakening storms moved inland. But there are steps you can take to stay safe and reduce damage to your property in the event of any…

It’s happened. There’s water everywhere – in your walls, under your carpets and soaking into your belongings. Whether caused by a burst pipe, a broken water heater or flooding, there are things you can do immediately to salvage belongings and limit damage or loss. Here are some suggestions from J.W.Hirschfeld Agency that will help you, wherever you live, including New York. 1. Stop the water. If the water is coming from inside your home, such as a burst pipe or…

You don’t have to be directly hit by a tornado in New York 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 tornadoes 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 at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency to…

With Earth Day fast approaching, we here at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency thought it would be a good time to talk about preventative measures you can take to avoid harming the environment, in addition to carrying an insurance policy that provides coverage for fuel spills and pollution liability. Maintain a clean bilge – don’t pump oily water overboard Clean safely – Use detergent sparingly. Environmentally responsible boat cleaning products can be found at www.greenseal.org Observe all…

New York, did you know the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers small businesses free, workplace safety consultations? During the OSHA 2010 fiscal year they provided consultations to 26,000 small and medium-sized businesses employing 1.5 million workers. OSHA’s workplace safety consultations are separate from inspections and do not result in citations or penalties. Establishing and following workplace safety standards at your business can significantly…

An Integral Part of Your Overall Business Plan A comprehensive emergency management program is a necessary part of any business, and J.W.Hirschfeld Agency wants all business in New York to be prepared. According to the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA), having a plan can help to limit employee or customer injuries, damages to property and help your business return more quickly to normal operations. FEMA makes a strong argument for emergency management planning by defining…

Slips, trips, and falls in outdoor environments can be caused by rain, sleet, ice and snow, and particulate soil that cause surfaces to become slippery or produce poor traction. While we cannot control environmental conditions that increase slipperiness of outdoor walkway surfaces, we can certainly reduce the likelihood of falls through improved design of exterior sidewalks, curbs, parking areas, improved lighting, and improved maintenance to increase awareness and eliminate hazards. Here is…

Rain, fog, sleet, snow, ice and wind… bad weather is the enemy of every driver in New York. J.W.Hirschfeld Agency 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 as the winter months approach, check the following items. Abrasive Material: A bag of kitty litter or similar…

As many commercial building owners and contractors across New York 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 at J.W.Hirschfeld Agency 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:…

In the United States there are a number of governmental agencies who have responsibility for our transportation systems on the ground, in our waterways and up in the skies. Each one has their own set of transportation projects or travel safety initiatives. And in many cases, a short drive from point “A” to point “B” can mean using systems regulated and policed by multiple municipalities. Is transportation an important part of your business? Whether you are a professional…

Is driving a necessary part of your company’s operation? During the winter months driving safely can be more challenging than usual when weather conditions bring ice, snow, or rain. J.W.Hirschfeld Agency wants you and your employees to be safe when on the road. Whether driving to meet customers or sending a fleet of vehicles out for deliveries, make sure your employees understand these safe driving tactics before they get started. On The Road When poor weather reduces visibility, drive…

As cold weather approaches in New York, it’s vital that you protect your building’s fire suppression system so it not only does its job should there be a fire, but that it doesn’t do more damage by freezing up, bursting, and creating massive water damage. J.W.Hirschfeld Agency wants you and your building to be protected from preventable losses – so keep these helpful tips in mind when you when you set up for fall clean up: Before the cold weather comes,…