Falling snow can be picturesque, but it can also wreak havoc on the roads. While no one enjoys driving in snowy or slippery conditions, there are steps you can take to help improve your safety with these winter driving tips.
Here are some guidelines that can help you stay safe when driving in adverse winter conditions:

• Make sure your car is prepared for cold temperatures and wintery conditions like snow and ice. Keep your equipment properly maintained and include a winter survival kit in your vehicle: an ice scraper, snow shovel and sand/salt.
• Clear snow and ice off your car – including windows, mirrors, lights, reflectors, hood, roof and trunk.
• Drive with your headlights on, and be sure to keep them clean to improve visibility.
• Use caution when snow banks limit your view of oncoming traffic.
• Avoid using cruise control in snowy or icy conditions. In adverse conditions, you want as much control of your car as possible.
• Know how to brake on slippery surfaces. Vehicles with anti-lock brakes operate much differently from those that do not have anti-lock brakes. You should consult your vehicle's owner's manual for instructions on how to brake properly if your vehicle should start to skid.
• Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season. This helps ensure you have a source of heat if you are stuck or stranded.
• If you do venture out or are unexpectedly caught in a snowstorm and encounter problems, stay in your car and wait for help. You can run the car heater to stay warm for 10 minutes every hour, but make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow. There is a danger of carbon monoxide poisoning if snow blocks the pipe and enables the deadly gas to build up in your car. Open your window slightly to help prevent the buildup.
• Keep your windshield washer reservoir full, and make sure your car has wiper blades that are in good condition.
• Remember that speed limits are meant for dry roads, not roads covered in snow and ice. You should reduce your speed and increase your following distance as road conditions and visibility worsen.
• Be cautious on bridges and overpasses as they are commonly the first areas to become icy.
• Avoid passing snow plows and sand trucks. The drivers can have limited visibility, and the road in front of them could be worse than the road behind.
• Monitor road and weather conditions by checking local news stations or Internet traffic and weather sites.
• If you must travel during a snowstorm or in blizzard conditions, be sure to let a relative, friend or coworker know where you are headed and your expected arrival time. Avoid the temptation to check or be on your phone while driving as all of your attention should be on arriving safely.

As winter nears, make sure your home is prepared to withstand another season of cold temperatures, driving winds and icy conditions. The maintenance that you do today can help prevent more costly emergency repairs in the height of a storm, when it can be difficult to find supplies and licensed contractors.
Download the Winter Home Maintenance Checklist Following are five important categories to focus on for this winter:
Your Heating SystemBefore you give your heating system a workout this winter, take the time for preventive maintenance. It may help extend the life of your system and identify potential problems.
Before winter:

• Have your furnace or boiler checked and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year, preferably before the heating season begins.
• Clean or replace the furnace filter on forced hot air systems.
• Have your chimney checked and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year. Pay particular attention to having creosote build-up removed for chimneys servicing woodstoves and fireplaces.

During winter:

• Have your fuel tanks filled and keep an eye on levels throughout the winter.
• Set your heat no lower than 55 degrees as the temperature inside the walls where water piping is located is colder than the living spaces; open doors to unoccupied rooms to keep an even temperature throughout the house.
• Maintain your wood-burning or pellet stoves according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Your InsulationIs your insulation prepared to protect you from the cold? As an important line of defense from winter’s gusty winds and freezing temperatures, it is worth taking some time to inspect and upgrade insulation and weather stripping before the season starts.

• Add extra insulation in the attic to guard against ice dams. If too much heat escapes into the attic, it can warm the ice and snow on the roof. When it refreezes, it can cause an ice dam, which can lead to water damage inside your home or possibly even a roof collapse.
• Add weather stripping around doors and caulk windows to guard against drafts and heat loss.
• Remove screens from windows, and install storm windows.

Your UtilitiesFreezing temperatures can be especially damaging to your home’s water piping. Make sure your pipes are adequately prepared to withstand a cold snap and remember to take extra precautions if you are going to be leaving your home, including shutting off your water. 

• Check for water leaks and fix problems immediately; wrap water piping in UL-Listed heat tape and insulate if it is exposed in unheated areas such as garages, crawl spaces or attics. Use only thermostatically controlled heat tape if your water piping is plastic and follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
• Learn how to shut off your water and know where your pipes are located in case they do freeze; you may be able to prevent water damage.

Your Winter Safety MeasuresAs you prepare for winter, following are some further safety measures that are especially important during the cold season.

• Trim trees and remove dead branches so they do not damage your home or injure someone if they fall because of ice, snow or wind.
• Keep gutters clear of leaves, sticks and other debris to ensure melting snow can drain properly. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
• Repair steps and handrails to make them safer in the ice and snow.
• Check smoke detectors, fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries to ensure they are operating properly.

Your Key Supplies and EquipmentThe first storm of the year can come sooner than you think. Stock up early and get key equipment, like snow blowers and generators, in good working condition long before you need them, so you can be prepared to enjoy what the season has to offer.

• Make sure you have snow shovels and a roof rake on hand. Stock your ice melting compound to melt ice on walkways.
• Have your snow blower and generator serviced and any necessary repairs made.
• Keep fuel for snow blowers and generators in approved safety containers and away from heat or flame producing devices. Do not store fuel in your basement.​

One morning, I was driving along a back road to one of my college classes when a deer suddenly jumped directly into my path.  By a sheer miracle, the deer, my car and I all escaped without injury. (Although I did pull off the road to calm my nerves.)
Not everyone is lucky enough to avoid a collision. The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates that there are around 1.25 million deer-vehicle collisions each year.
Before you get too concerned, here are some helpful tips on how to avoid deer-vehicle collisions and how to handle hitting a deer.
What are the odds?
Hitting a deer is most likely to occur around sunrise and sunset. This is when deer are the most active—and that’s especially true during the final few months of the year.
Drivers in northeastern states also have a higher risk of hitting a deer due to exploding deer populations. To give you an idea, drivers in West Virginia have a 1 in 41 chance of hitting a deer. Other high-risk states include Ohio, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina and South Carolina, to name a few.  
How to avoid hitting a deer
Nobody wants to end up with a crushed fender or a broken windshield. You can decrease your chances of hitting a deer by following these tips:

• Slow down during dawn and dusk hours. Driving slower will give you extra time to react to deer (or other animals) that dart into the road.

• Pay attention to warning signs. Deer-populated areas are normally marked with a sign. Look out for them, especially during the fall and winter months.

• Use high beams (if possible). Using your high beams at night will illuminate the road and help you spot deer.

• Wear your seat belt. If you do hit a deer, wearing a seat belt decreases your chances of injury.   

How to handle hitting a deer
Taking the above precautions can help you  avoid hitting a deer. Yet they don’t entirely rule out the possibility of having a run-in with a deer.
If a deer does dash in front of your vehicle, don’t swerve in an attempt to avoid it. Swerving often does more harm than good since you could hit a tree or an oncoming vehicle.
If there’s no way around the deer, maintain your current speed or try to slow down. Never speed up. This can cause the deer to hit your vehicle with more force, which will only cause more damage.
Pull over as soon as it’s safe. Be cautious when examining your vehicle—injured deer can still lash out and hurt someone.
It’s best to call the police and get a police report for evidence when you make an insurance claim. If you can’t make a call, take photos if possible.
Finally, in instances in which the deer is dead, you can often request to keep the carcass for meat. (Deer burgers anyone?)
Don’t let deer get you down. Deer-vehicle collisions are covered under the optional comprehensive portion of your auto insurance. Talk with an insurance professional like an Erie Insurance agent to make sure you have the right coverage for your car.
- See more at: https://www.erieinsurance.com/Blog/2015/hitting-a-deer?utm_source=eriefacebook&utm_medium=eriesocial&utm_campaign=general#prclt-WBAwYSh1

​If you are a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are several key things you can do to help protect your vacant home. Taking these steps can help protect your home from theft, water damage, heating or electrical system malfunctions and other possible threats while you are away for an extended period of time.
Download the Winterizing Your Home Checklist PDF 
​
​1. Make Your Home Appear as Though It Is Continuously Occupied

• Forward your mail, stop newspaper delivery, and ask a friend or relative to collect flyers or other items that may be left at your door.
• Arrange for someone to remove snow after storms.
• Put motion-sensitive exterior lights and interior lights on timers and set them to come on at varying times to discourage prowlers.

2. Take Steps to Protect Your Home from Thieves

• Confirm that your alarm systems are in working order and have been activated.
• Secure external doors and windows with deadbolt locks, security-type hinges and sturdy door frames that cannot be spread apart. Install slide locks or other equivalent security locks on sliding glass doors or French doors.
• Store valuables that you are not taking with you in a safe deposit box or other secure offsite location.
• Do not post your vacation or travel plans on social media sites, as potential thieves can use that information to learn that your house is vacant.

3. Protect Your Pipes to Avoid Water Damage by Turning Off Your Water Supply

• If a pipe bursts or leaks while you are away, it could cause significant damage. Consider completely turning off the water supply if no one will be in the home for an extended period of time. If your home is heated by an older steam heating system, consult with your heating professional to determine if it is safe to turn off the water supply for your particular heating system. Also, if your home is protected by a fire sprinkler system, do not turn off the water to this system.
• Drain your pipes of all water by opening the faucets, and flush your toilet to clear the water from the tank and bowl, then consider pouring antifreeze in toilet tanks and bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing and cracking.* Always use non-toxic antifreeze rated for plumbing systems.
• To help confirm that the pipes have been drained, consider having a plumber blow compressed air through the pipes.

4. Keep Your Home and Plumbing Warm if Your Water Supply Stays On

• If you decide against draining your water pipes, keep the furnace running to help ensure the home stays warm and the pipes do not freeze.
• Set the temperature at 55°F or higher to help keep the interior of the floor and wall cavities, where the water piping is likely located above freezing temperatures. Keeping room and cabinet doors open also helps heat to circulate and warm the areas where pipes are located.
• Shut off the water to washing machines and dishwashers where possible, to avoid any leaks or broken hoses while you are away.
• Turn off the heat source and water supply to hot water heaters (if separate from your boiler).
• Consider shutting off and draining outdoor water faucets to prevent vandalism and freezing damage.
• Have a water flow sensor and low temperature sensor installed on your main water supply pipe and hooked into a constantly monitored alarm system or your smart phone.

5. Perform Routine Maintenance Before You Leave

• Have your heating system inspected and serviced before winter. Have your fuel tanks filled before you leave, and ask someone to check on heat and fuel levels regularly while you are gone.
• Be sure to maintain electrical power if required to keep the heating system running. If electrical service to the home is to remain on, consider having a licensed electrical contractor inspect your main electrical panel, wiring and outlets, if necessary. This way, they can repair or replace anything that may be defective.
• Have your roof inspected before you leave and clean your gutters to help prevent ice from building up.*
• Remove dead trees or large overhanging limbs that could damage your house.
• Unplug all unnecessary appliances before you leave. Make sure you can retrieve messages on your home answering machine or voicemail so it does not indicate FULL or unattended when someone calls.

6. Make Your Home Unattractive to Pests

• Clean your home thoroughly to help discourage new “residents” from moving in.
• Clean, defrost and unplug refrigerators and freezers, wiping them dry and leaving doors propped open to prevent mildew. Also clean the oven.
• Inspect your home for openings that animals could use to enter. For example, make sure your fireplace flue is closed, as bats, birds and squirrels are known to get inside this way.
• Check weather-stripping, insulation and exterior doors and windows to ensure no major deficiencies are present. Water and insects can enter through these openings.
• Chimneys should be inspected by a chimney service and, if necessary, cleaned to ensure that they are free from obstructions such as nesting birds. Install chimney guard screen-caps to help prevent any infestation.

7. Be Ready for Emergencies

• Notify the police department that the property will be vacant, and provide emergency notification numbers.
• Install smoke detectors on at least every floor (preferably tied to a constantly monitored fire alarm system so the fire department will automatically be notified in case of alarm), and confirm that the sensors and system are tested regularly.
• In higher wind-exposed or coastal areas, install storm shutters (or other mitigation measures, such as 5/8” marine plywood) to secure windows. Properly anchor personal property that will remain outdoors.
• Ask a trusted friend, neighbor or relative to keep an eye on your home and be available in emergency situations. Give them access to your home so they can regularly monitor heating, electrical and water systems.
• If the weather turns frigid, have them also check the roof for ice dams and inspect for leaks inside. Make sure they have your contact information and a list of local contractors they can reach if repairs or service are needed.
     
    

* Source: http://www.homeadvisor.com/article.show.How-Do-I-Winterize-a-Vacant-House.10834.html

Falling leaves may be pretty, but disposing of them can get ugly. Plus, options (or laws) for burning, bagging, and composting are different in each area. Here’s what to know:
Don’t burn
Many local governments are banning leaves and other yard trimmings from landfills, and you may be tempted to burn the leaves in your yard. Leaf burning, however, becomes a fire hazard that can lead to air pollution and health problems. The open burning of leaves produces particulate matter and hydrocarbons that contain toxic, irritant and carcinogenic compounds, such as carbon monoxide. Burning leaves is not recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)—nor is it legal in most states.
Do bag
If you’ve got a lot of time and a strong back (who has either, right?), bagging leaves is one option. This moderate physical activity helps build upper-body and core strength and gives you the opportunity to get outside for some fresh fall air. Remember, sticks, rocks, pine cones, limbs and other debris should not be mixed with loose leaves. Also, check with your municipality or borough to see what, if any, weight limit or bag color has been specified for leaf-filled bags, Then, when they’re ready to go, put them at the curb on your regular trash collection day or as directed.
Try composting
Composting is an environmentally-friendly form of recycling that helps soil retain moisture and nutrients and increase fertility. When leaves are composted along with nitrogen-filled grass clippings, the resulting compost becomes organic fertilizer or mulch for flowerbeds, gardens or around shrubs. The EPA’s Web site offers a free detailed guide on how to create your own compost pile in your backyard. The most important thing to note is what can and cannot be composted. Stay away from meat trimmings and bones—they may attract pests.
What you need to know about the law
Laws for leaf disposal vary depending on where you live. Visit your city’s Web site or call your local public works department for more information.
- See more at: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/2009/dont-leave-leaves?utm_source=eriefacebook&utm_medium=eriesocial&utm_campaign=general#prclt-dd5rrc81

The annual apparition of spooky skeletons, broomstick-riding witches and carved pumpkins is a sure sign fall is well under way. Second only to Christmas in terms of how much consumers spend on decorations,¹ Americans of all ages seem to love celebrating Halloween.

The Halloween spirit has spread to the inside and outside of the home as well, with homeowners setting up elaborate displays that range from haunted houses in the basement to graveyards on the lawn, as well as high-tech LED lighting outdoors. When planning and setting up your Halloween decorations, it is a good idea to consider any potential risks involved. Taking steps to prepare your property and to protect any visitors can help spare you from a truly frightening night.
​

Be Aware of Dangers that Might Not be Visible During the Day

• Walk your property before Halloween to identify and minimize potential dangers, especially those difficult to see after dark. For example, check to make sure temporary extension cords are secured to avoid becoming a tripping hazard.
• Make sure walking surfaces are even and clear of debris, and that any obstacles are clearly marked, such as stakes, exposed roots or holes.
• Ensure that your front yard, walkway and entry way are well-lit so that those unfamiliar with your home can safely navigate. If using a fog machine, be careful that the fog does not make it difficult to see tripping hazards.

Remember that Welcoming the Neighborhood Inside Also Invites Risk

• When hosting a haunted house, make sure to allow adequate floor and exit lighting. Keep exits clear to help prevent tripping.
• Avoid advertising the event in your neighborhood or on social media.
• If charging for admission for a haunted house or other forms of entertainment, be aware that this could be considered a business activity and you should consult with your agent or insurance company representative to ensure you have the proper coverage.

Be Smart about Where You Place Decorations

• Set up decorations with traffic flow in mind. Place them to prevent tipping over, blowing away or becoming a tripping hazard.
• When plugging in your scary indoor decorations, do not overload electrical outlets.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to help avoid damage to your home or injury to your guests. For example, make sure inflatable decorations are secured properly and kept away from sources of ignition.

Set Up Spooky Lighting with Caution

• Avoid any kind of open flame.
• Consider using battery-operated candles or LED lighting as a safe alternative to candles.
• Do not drape costumes or other fabrics over light bulbs, which generate heat and can start a fire.

Choose Decorations Wisely

• Avoid dried flowers, cornstalks and crêpe paper because they are highly combustible. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
• Use lights and other electrical decorations that have been tested for safety – look for a certification mark from UL, CSA, ETL or another nationally-recognized laboratory.
• When plugging in decorations, avoid daisy chaining extension cords, which may cause overheating.
• Never staple, nail through or fasten electrical wires or extension cords in any way that might damage the wire or insulation. This could cause electrical shock or fire.
• Plug all outdoor lights and decorations into ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to help reduce the risk of electric shock. Portable GFCIs for outdoor use can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold.

Do Not be Frightened by the Risks

• Give yourself peace of mind and speak with your insurance agent to make sure you are properly covered.
• Consider an umbrella policy that could provide extra protection in case of an accident.

Sources:
¹ https://nrf.com/media/press-releases/ghouls-and-ghosts-galore-158-million-people-celebrate-halloween-this-year

When thinking of the cause of a kitchen fire, it is common to think of cooking. But not all kitchen fires start because of cooking hazards. Non-cooking related fires commonly involve refrigerators, freezers or dishwashers. The following tips can help prevent non-cooking related fires from occurring in your kitchen.

• Plug all kitchen appliances, including microwaves, toasters and coffee makers, directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord as it can overheat and cause a fire.
• Use the right outlet for the right appliance. For larger appliances, such as ovens and refrigerators, be sure to only use properly grounded outlets with circuits that match the rating plate on the appliance. If you have older 2-prong outlets in other locations of your kitchen, have a qualified electrician replace it with a properly grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not use an adapter.
• Replace any power cords that become frayed or otherwise damaged. Never use a cord that shows cracks or other damage.
• When moving kitchen appliances, be aware of power cords. Rolling over or pinching power cords can damage them.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Keep your stove and oven clean. Built up food splatter or grease can later ignite when the stove or oven is turned on for cooking.
• Check and clean stove hoods and filters regularly. If your stove hood vents externally, make sure insects or birds do not build nests or otherwise impede air flow through it.
• Never use a gas or propane oven to heat your home. Not only is this a fire hazard, but it can also give off toxic gases.

What to Do If a Kitchen Fire Flares UpBy exercising caution at all times in your kitchen, you can help reduce the risk of a kitchen fire. But if a fire does flare up, you need to be prepared.

• Your safety should always come first. If you are unsure about whether it is safe to fight the fire, leave the scene, call 911 for help, and let the fire department control the fire.
• If a small fire flares up and you are going to attempt to extinguish it, call 911 for help first. A fire may grow out of control more quickly than you anticipate. It is safer to have help already on the way. 
  Using a fire extinguisher

Hurricanes are most prevalent from June 1 to Nov. 30, and can inflict serious damage to homes and businesses, especially in the form of extreme wind and water damage. Fortunately, careful planning and organization can help you better prepare for and manage the damage and costs associated with the aftermath of dangerous hurricanes.

Here are some helpful tips for preparing for and managing potential loss before, during and after a hurricane.

Before the hurricane, you should:

• Know the difference between a hurricane watch and hurricane warning.
  • Hurricane Watch: A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified area. A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds in an area.
  • Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions (sustained winds 74 mph or higher) are expected within a specified area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph), the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
• Conduct a Household Inventory. It will help you record an accurate assessment of your belongings.
• Prepare a hurricane evacuation kit that can be reached within a moment's notice of evacuation.

Preparing the Outside of Your Home If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:

• Remove diseased or damaged tree limbs before the threat of a storm. Secure any yard objects, and store outdoor furniture.
• Use permanent shutters to best protect windows. You can also use half-inch plywood panels with pre-drilled holes every 18 inches for screws. Watch a one-minute video to see how leaving just one window or door unprotected can lead to catastrophic damage in a hurricane.
• Have a supply of plywood and nails on hand to board up your home. You risk paying high prices and standing in long lines if you wait until the last minute to purchase these storm essentials.
• Make sure you have flood insurance. You can find out about the National Flood Insurance Program through your local Agent. There is normally a 30-day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective. Homeowner policies do not cover damage from flooding that accompanies a hurricane.
• Develop an emergency communication plan. In case family members are separated from one another during a hurricane, have a plan for getting back together. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the family contact. After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address and phone number of the contact person.
• Build an emergency plan using Know Your Plan, a free app that contains disaster preparedness checklists and can be used on iPhone, iPad and iTouch. It was developed by the Insurance Information Institute and Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).

When a hurricane watch is issued, you should:

• Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports.
• Check your emergency supplies. Make sure everything is stocked and in working order.
• Gas up your car.
• Bring in garbage cans, lawn furniture, bikes, toys, hanging plants and lawn decorations. If possible, disassemble the swings on your child's swing set to prevent unnecessary damage.
• Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows. Remove outdoor antennas.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
• Store drinking water.
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container.
• Review your evacuation plan with your family.
• Move your boat securely or transfer it to a designated safe area. Use rope or chain to secure the boat to a trailer.
• Use tie downs to anchor your trailer to the ground or your house.

When a hurricane warning is issued, you should:

• Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
• If you are in a mobile home, make sure it is tied down and evacuate immediately.
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• If you lose power, turn off all major appliances. Too many running appliances can create a power surge when the power is turned back on.

If officials issue a mandatory evacuation, you should:

• Leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads, and watch for washed-out bridges.
• Unplug appliances, and turn off the electricity and main water valve.
• Tell someone outside the storm area where you are going.
• If time permits and you live in an identified surge zone, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding. If possible, move it to a higher floor.
• Take pre-assembled emergency supplies, warm protective clothing, blankets and sleeping bags to your designated shelter.
• Lock up your home before you leave.
• If you have time, bring your laptop computer with you. This will provide an invaluable bank of information.

After the hurricane, you should:

• • Help injured or trapped persons.
  • Give first aid where appropriate.
  • Do not move anyone seriously injured unless they're in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.
  • Avoid loose or dangling power lines, and report them immediately to the power company, police or fire department.
  • Enter your home with caution. Beware of snakes, insects and animals driven to higher ground by rising floodwater.
  • Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
  • Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
  • Take pictures or video of storm damage, both to the house and its contents, for insurance claims. Make a list of all damaged and destroyed items.
  • Assess the damage to your home, and make temporary repairs to prevent further destruction.
  • Hold off on permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster approves your reimbursement.
  • Cover broken windows and damaged roof coverings immediately.
  • Remove standing water from your home.
  • Keep all receipts related to repairs and temporary housing.
  • Drive only if absolutely necessary, and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
  • Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
  • Inspect utilities for gas leaks and damage to electrical work and water and sewer lines.

For more information on steps to take to protect your home or business, go to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety website, disastersafety.org or disastersafety.org/hurricane.

- See more at: https://www.erieinsurance.com/home-insurance/disaster-safety/

Life insurance is something people in many different situations and stages of life should consider.

Even knowing this, you may still wonder why life insurance would be a good fit for you. Check out the following list to understand what kinds of expenses life insurance can cover. You and your loved ones will have greater peace of mind knowing exactly why life insurance could play an important role in the future.

7 things life insurance can cover

1. An income stream. Your family depends on your income to meet daily needs like food, medical care, utilities, car payments and much more. If you pass away without a means for replacing that income, their current standard of living could be in jeopardy.

2. A mortgage. Could your family afford your home’s mortgage without your paycheck in the picture? If not, an already sad situation would be compounded by possibly losing the house they love. This could also mean your children could no longer attend a school in their current district or maintain the friendships they currently have.

3. A college loan. College tuitions have grown faster than inflation—and so has student loan debt. Many private lending institutions do not forgive education loans in the event of death. That means the debt may reduce the amount of assets available to pass to the beneficiaries of a decreased student’s estate. It could also trigger repayment obligations for anyone who agreed to be a cosigner on the loan.

4. A child’s needs. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says it costs $245,340 to raise a child who was born in 2013. Making sure that there’s enough there for each child is something both employed and stay-at-home parents should consider.

5. A business. The right life insurance is critical if you own a business. This is especially true if a business has partners. If one passes away, it is advantageous to have funding in place for the surviving partner to buy the deceased partner’s interest in the business. Funding also needs to be in place to help a business survive after a key partner passes. Finding the right person may take time and resources the business may not have without life insurance.

6. A retirement. Many experts recommend you need to bank 11 times your annual pay in order to retire at age 65. (You’ll need even more if you don’t work until age 65.) Without enough savings or life insurance, your surviving spouse might not have such golden years.

7. Funeral expenses. The median price of a funeral is more than $7,000. Funeral directors say families without enough funds are forced to cut back on the service or ask friends and family for donations.

Life insurance needs vary from person to person. If you’re interested in learning which one is right for you, contact a professional like an Erie Insurance Agent in your community. They can tell you why life insurance might be a good option for you and help you find the right protection at the right price.