“Current State Farm driving data and claims experience show a considerable decline in miles driven and fewer accidents,” said Tom Conley, SVP. “As a result, we’re looking for ways to continue supporting our Washington customers while we monitor and adjust to trends.”

In addition to the auto rate reduction, the discount for participating in Drive Safe & Save™ is increasing to 10%, and empowers drivers to save more on their auto premiums through driving behaviors.

Customer rate reductions will vary based on their individual renewals. Customers are encouraged to visit with their State Farm agent about individual policies, coverage and any opportunities for discounts, including Drive Safe & Save.

“Current State Farm driving data and claims experience show a considerable decline in miles driven and fewer accidents,” said Tom Conley, SVP. “As a result, we’re looking for ways to continue supporting our Hawaii customers while we monitor and adjust to trends.”

In addition to the auto rate reduction, the discount for participating in Drive Safe & Save™ is increasing to 10%, and empowers drivers to save more on their auto premiums through driving behaviors.

Rate changes in Hawaii are subject to regulatory approval. Customer rate reductions will vary based on their individual renewals. Customers are encouraged to visit with their State Farm agent about individual policies, coverage and any opportunities for discounts, including Drive Safe & Save.

Arson K9 Kaimi is one of those dogs. K9 Kaimi is the first and oldest serving arson dog in Hawaii. Abandoned at a California shelter when he was seven months old, things didn’t look good for the young yellow Lab. Most pet adopters are looking for a calm pet or lap dog, not a dog with an energy level that doesn’t stop. Thankfully a shelter worker took notice of his enthusiasm and work drive. They contacted a local fire investigator, who reached out to trainers with the State Farm® Arson Dog Program.

In April 2008, K9 Kaimi met and trained with his new human partner, Assistant Fire Chief Robert (Bobby) Perreira. After five weeks of training, they became a certified team for the county and state. Since then, K9 Kaimi has worked hundreds of fires across the Hawaiian Islands, finding evidence that helps local police and fire departments during arson investigations.

Assistant Fire Chief Robert Perreira and K9 Kaimi will be at the Petco store in Hilo, Hawaii, on Oct. 12 for the Petco Foundation Meet a Helping Hero campaign. It will be one of his last public events. K9 Kaimi will retire from service in December 2019 after serving the residents of Hawaii for 11 ½ years. Nearly 13 years old, K9 Kaimi may be a little slower, but his nose is still sharp.

State Farm will have 47 arson dogs and handlers at Petco stores as part of the Meet a Helping Hero campaign. The campaign highlights how working animals transform lives by providing comfort, support, and assistance. The campaign also raises money to support animal shelters, rescues, and working dog organizations.

The Petco Foundation has provided over $60,000 in grants to police and fire department with certified arson dog teams. These grants help with expenses related to care, maintenance, and annual recertification of dogs like K9 Kaimi.

Therapy, service, and working animals will be at Petco stores on Oct. 12 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. local time. Visit the Petco Foundation Meet a Helping Hero website to find participating stores.

The effective date for new and renewal business is July 22. The last rate change in Hawaii was a decrease of 3 percent in Nov. 2018. Combined, the three auto rate decreases will save Hawaii customers $10.1 million.

“State Farm is very pleased to be able to offer another auto rate decrease in Hawaii,” said State Farm Senior Vice President Tom Conley. “Improving expenses and losses were important factors, among many, that supported our decision to make this rate change."

Overall changes in premiums for individual motorists will vary. Rates depend on a customer’s policy and chosen coverage. Customers can contact their local State Farm agent to discuss their individual situation. Additional opportunities for discounts may apply.

A rate decrease combined with discounts offers exceptional long-term value to State Farm customers.

Are you ready?

A little preparation can make a big difference when it comes to safety and security of your family and pets. Homeowners can protect themselves and their property in advance of the storm with a few simple steps:

• Have an evacuation plan. Before the hurricane, decide what you will do. Find out the location of evacuation shelters. Determine if you will ride out the storm in your home (if local authorities permit you to stay), or establish a safe place inland. Plan an escape route. Tell relatives where you will be.

• Put together an emergency kit. The kit should include basics such as water, food, first aid supplies, clothing, blankets, and important documents. Store your kit in airtight plastic bags or a plastic storage container with a lid.

• Protect your property. Stock plywood and materials you may need to board up windows. Move garbage cans and other large objects inside the house or garage. Secure boats and cars.

• Create a home inventory. Make a list of your possessions and their estimated value. 

In The News:

• Hawaii Public Radio: The Conversation: Storm Experiences (home inventory information at 29:40 mark of the program) Aug. 24, 2018