• Install surge protectors, including a whole-house surge protector if possible. Surge protectors can help protect appliances and electronic equipment from the surge of electricity caused by lightning strikes. 
• Add a lightning protection system: a lightning protection system, often including lightning rods and grounding systems, can divert lightning strikes away from the building, reducing the risk of fire or damage. 
• Unplug electronic devices during a storm and seeking shelter at the lowest point in your home if you are home during a storm.  

Lightning remains a costly and unpredictable threat for homeowners. Lightning strikes can cause extensive damage to electrical systems, appliances, and even structural issues. The damage underscores the critical need for homeowners to be aware of the risks, invest in protective measures, and stay prepared, especially in high-risk regions where lightning strikes are most frequent and damaging. 

After a lightning storm, homeowners are encouraged to look for these common signs of lightning damage: 

• Charring — a lightning-strike site is often charred by lightning's intense heat. If you believe your home was struck by lightning, consider inspecting the property for burnt patches and charring. 
• Damaged electrical switches — similarly, the power surges sometimes caused by lightning can lead to burnt electrical switches. 
• Roof and wall damage — lightning can damage a roof or wall to the point of causing holes or reducing a home’s structural integrity. 
• Report lightning damage/claim to insurance as soon as possible to begin repair and recovery process. 

Consider taking extra precautions to prep your home if you live in a top lightning state. The Top 10 states for lightning claims according to Triple-I’s national industry average based on State Farm claims data are:

1. Florida 
2. Texas 
3. California 
4. Georgia 
5. North Carolina 
6. Louisiana 
7. Alabama 
8. New York 
9. Pennsylvania 
10. Illinois 
 

“Mission Leaders like State Farm are vital to our work, helping drive innovation across our organization, providing capacity to respond immediately in times of crisis," said Cliff Holtz, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “I am grateful for their support, which safeguards our ability to care for those in need when the unthinkable happens."

State Farm has a long history of providing grants to non-profits after disaster strikes a community. This new approach to pre-fund grants before disaster strikes aims to help provide streamlined and immediate support of disaster relief efforts. The goal of pre-funding is to support non-profit preparedness, relief and recovery efforts for communities and families impacted by disasters big and small – including hurricanes, floods, home fires and countless other crises – as efficiently and timely as possible. 

“Being a good neighbor is at the heart of the State Farm mission,” said Apsara Sorensen, State Farm Corporate Responsibility Assistant Vice President. “State Farm is committed to helping individuals and families manage the risks of everyday life and recover from the unexpected. We extend this commitment to the neighborhoods we serve by providing resources and collaborating with nonprofit organizations with a history of disaster response, providing immediate relief and vital necessities during times of need.”

"This proactive support ensures that Midwest Food Bank is ready to respond swiftly when natural disasters strike. Thanks to their commitment, we can bring hope and help to those in need, demonstrating the power of partnership in action," said Lisa Martin, CFO of Midwest Food Bank.

According to Ethan Forhetz, Convoy of Hope VP of Public Engagement, "This grant ensures that Convoy disaster response teams will stand ready to deliver hope to those whose lives have been turned upside down.” 

A natural phenomenon, lightning can cause extensive damage to ecosystems, property, and sometimes lead to death. Knowing and managing the risks associated with lightning can help protect your family and property.

Lightning Safety Tips:

If lightning is common in your area, familiarize yourself with ways to reduce risk before and during a lightning storm. For example:

• Go indoors at the first sign of a storm.
• Avoid touching electronics or anything with a cord, such as your hair dryer.
• Stay away from water sources, including pipes, sinks and showers.
• Do not stand or lean on concrete structures. Metal bars inside the concrete can conduct electricity.
• Seek shelter in a hard-top vehicle if you're stuck outside. Also avoid sitting inside convertible cars, golf carts and motorcycles.
• If swimming or boating when lightning is present, get out of the water and onto dry land.
• Do not touch metal surfaces, such as a sliding door.
• Avoid touching anything served by gas lines, such as water heaters, ovens, furnaces and fireplaces.
• If you're outside and shelter isn't available, crouch down at least 100 feet from tall objects, tuck your head in and cover your ears.
• If someone has been struck by lightning, call 911 or your local ambulance service immediately. If you are qualified, give the person first aid. Lightning victims are safe to touch and need medical attention right away.

Invest in lightning protection

Your best bet for stopping lightning damage in its tracks may be a lightning protection system tailored specifically to your home's architecture. Such a system creates a pathway for lightning bolts, guiding them safely into the ground.

Install lightning surge protection devices

Lightning strikes on or near a power line or utility service are a frequent cause of power surges. Point-of-use surge protection devices (SPDs), combined with a good grounding system, should protect your electronic and electrical appliances from most electrical surges. An SPD does not suppress or arrest a surge; it actually diverts the surge to the ground.

Service entrance SPDs provide protection for your entire electrical system and are usually installed at the electrical panel(s) or at the base of the service meter. These devices help prevent the entrance of overvoltages, which can cause a fire. Surge protection devices are typically installed in conjunction with a lightning protection system.

Lightning Insurance

While there isn't a policy for lightning alone, your homeowners, condo, or renters’ policy can help get you get you back on your feet if lightning does strike. You can also contact your insurance agent if you have coverage questions about damage due to lightning.

Up to 100 participants from across the country are eligible to receive $500 awards to complete a planned wildfire risk reduction project on the event day, Saturday, May 7, 2022. To be considered for a project funding award, participants must submit an application by Monday, February 28, 2022. Apply for an award.

The national campaign, which began in 2014, provides an opportunity for groups and individuals who live in wildfire-prone areas to come together on a single day to complete projects that can help make their homes and communities safer from wildfire. Research shows risks can be lessened when residents invest time in preparing their homes and landscaping to reduce the damage caused by embers during a wildfire. Projects undertaken on Preparedness Day, which can range from a short time commitment up to an entire day, can include:

• Raking and removing pine needles and dry leaves within a minimum of three to five feet of a home’s foundation, continuing up to a 30-foot distance around the home, as time permits, and disposing of collected debris in appropriate trash receptacles.
• Clearing roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris, and pine needles that could catch embers.
• Collecting downed tree limbs and broken branches and taking them to a disposal site.
• Screening or boxing-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.

 “Major wildfire incidents resulting in thousands of destroyed homes continue to occur annually in the U.S. and are quickly becoming the dominant type of fire that causes catastrophic multiple deaths and structure loss,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “Homeowners need to understand they have a role to play and that they can take action in reducing wildfire risk. Preparedness Day 2022 gives people the chance to not only make a difference in safety on event day but all through the year as well.”

According to the latest NFPA “Fire Safety in the United States since 1980, Through the Lens of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem” report, one million homes were within the perimeter of human-caused wildland/urban interface (WUI) fires from 1992 – 2015, and more than 60 million homes were threatened by such incidents in the same 24-year period. Data from annual reports from NFPA of catastrophic multiple death fires state that a total of 248 people have died in WUI fires from 1988 through 2018.

For more information about Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, how to apply for funding awards, project ideas, and free resources to download, please visit www.wildfireprepday.org.

As of this morning (1/7/2022), State Farm has received over 1,400 home and auto claims, with the vast majority in Boulder County. Temporary housing and advance funds continue to be provided to customers where possible, with nearly $5 Million in advances issued to date. Customers are encouraged to file a claim as soon as possible, and can text the word “CLAIM” to 62789 to receive a link to file a claim.

In addition to State Farm agents, agent’s staff, and local employees, we have mobilized our State Farm catastrophe response teams across the affected areas to help customers with their claims. We also have thousands of employees handling claims virtually across the country in our centralized operations.

State Farm has opened a Catastrophe Customer Care Site located at 61 West FlatIron Crossing Drive in Broomfield (FlatIron Crossing mall, in front of the AMC theater.)

Additionally as part of our overall support for the community, State Farm has committed a $50,000 disaster grant for the American Red Cross of Colorado, with those funds primarily assisting those displaced from their homes.

State Farm There From The Start

As the wildfire spread, State Farm began mobilizing its resources. Our response includes State Farm agents who live and work in the same neighborhoods as our customers; teams of claim specialists trained in disaster response traveling in to evaluate damage on site; thousands of employees in centralized care centers across the country helping answer customers’ questions and file their claims; remote claim teams conducting virtual inspections with impacted customers; and many other resources, all helping customers in their time of need.

State Farm’s Customer Response Unit (CRU) was on the ground Sunday (1/2/2022) assisting the community (beginning in Spanish Hills and Rock Creek) with basic essentials such as fresh water, work gloves, flashlights, first aid kits, and snacks. The CRU also hands out coloring books and teddy bears for children in the community.

Wildfire Defense Systems Activated

Wildfire Defense Systems (WDS) arrived on scene early Friday (12/31/2021) morning. The largest wildfire protection service provider, this complimentary Wildfire Response service was added to all non-tenant homeowners policies in Colorado at no cost to State Farm customers in early 2020. During an active wildfire, if WDS determines a home insured by State Farm is at risk, they will deploy a team that will take proactive counter-measures to protect a policyholder’s property.

On January 1, they continued efforts to mop-up isolated pocked of heat and secure the line. Thanks to a thick blanket of snow over the fire area, significant gains were made toward full containment. Enrolled properties are no longer threatened; should the need to re-engaged WDS arise, they are prepared to respond back to the threatened properties.

Virtual Claim Handling

We are helping customers in more ways, and right now that means leveraging technology and offering virtual claim handling when appropriate.

• State Farm encourages customers to take advantage of potential options for virtual inspections or other methods that do not always require a personal inspection with their claims professional (the virtual option is available in most states if legally permitted.)
• State Farm policyholders who have damage from this event can submit and manage their claim through various channels. This includes calling or emailing their State Farm agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, submitting a claim through our mobile app or through our website at statefarm.com/claims.

Homeowners with fire damage can benefit from more virtual ways to file a claim and receive payment to start repairs. State Farm is leveraging technology by providing virtual claim handling options to customers who have damage from Marshall Wildfire, allowing customers to file and track their claim from the convenience of their phone or other electronic devices.

Once a claim is underway, customers can electronically submit photos, video and other claim documentation, and participate in video calls with their claim representative as available. When electronic communication is not available or preferred, we provide in-person claim handling as appropriate.

When Christine Lopez woke up Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011, she didn’t expect the day to be so life-changing; literally upside down.

It started as a nearly perfect day in East Los Angeles. The sun was shining, a light breeze, barely a cloud in the sky. Christine and her five-year-old Leilani spent most of the morning looking for a special gift at the mall.

Around one o’clock in the afternoon, Christine decided it was time to head home. With Leilani buckled into her car seat enjoying a snack, she got behind the wheel of her SUV. She queued up Leilani’s favorite playlist, and headed for the nearest intersection.

The mother and daughter laughed and sang along to the music while waiting for the traffic light to turn green. When it finally did, Christine lifted her foot off the brake pedal, started to make a left turn — and then it happened…

In the blink of an eye, Christine’s wonderful day turned into a nightmare. A vehicle ran the red light and broadsided the Lopez family at 40 miles per hour. The smaller gas-electric hybrid impacted the SUV’s rear passenger side door and quarter panel, causing it to spin around several times and ultimately flip over.

When the glass, metal, and plastic stopped flying and the dust settled, they were upside down and facing the wrong way in oncoming traffic on a heavily-traveled street.

“I must have lost consciousness for a moment or two, but once I came around, Leilani was all I could think about,” Christine recalled. “I was upside down, and the car was eerily silent. I was afraid to look back. But when I did, I saw my daughter’s smiling face staring back at me. She was also hanging upside down in her car seat — safe and sound — giggling, ‘I’m upside down, mommy. Wheeee. That was fun,’ just like she had just been on an amusement park ride or something.”

Montebello Police Officer Oscar Chavez was the first emergency responder to reach the crash site and was surprised to find no one seriously hurt.

"Not many people walk-away from such a wreck unscathed. Whenever there’s an overturned vehicle or car on its side, we expect the worst, often finding a severely injured person or persons inside the vehicle,” shared Officer Chavez. “But that wasn’t the case here. We don’t normally see a motorist involved in this serious of a collision walk away without a scratch, especially a child. It was amazing, and says a lot about proper use of restraints.”

Most would say Christine and her daughter were lucky, that fate was on their side that day. But Christine was also smart. Had she not been practicing what she learned from a child passenger safety seat inspection undergone a few days prior, the outcome could’ve been much different.

Just four days before and at the urging of a close friend in the California Highway Patrol, Christine decided to attend a child passenger safety/safety seat inspection event in her neighborhood sponsored by State Farm®.

Ninety-six percent of parents like Christine, roll up to an inspection station confident that the seats protecting their kids are installed and being used correctly.

Fajardo says most people don’t. “Some seats get passed down from kid to kid, borrowed from family members, or purchased at second hand stores, yard sales or thrift stores,” she explained. “We don’t recommended secondhand seats because you never know what you’re going to get. The effects of wear and tear or other environmental factors over the years could’ve compromised the straps, plastic, or locking mechanisms.”

During the inspection, Fajardo made one other change: she moved Leilani’s seat from the passenger side to the center of the back seat.

While sitting in the middle isn’t a safety requirement, it worked for Christine since Leilani was generally the only rear seat passenger – and as luck would have it, this was the reason Leilani wasn’t sitting by the door that was struck four days later.

After the evaluation was complete, Christine was a bit frustrated but grateful. Officer Fajardo replaced her expired booster seat with a smaller safety seat with a five point harness. Then, taught Christine how to install it and how to properly restrain Leilani in it.

“It was intense and humbling, learning that I was putting my daughter at risk,” admits Christine.

While the child safety seat played a pivotal role for Leilani, it wasn’t the only passenger safety restraint at work in this case. The seat belt and airbags played critical roles, too. It quite possibly saved Christine’s life.

It’s been ten years since Christine and Leilani dangled upside down on Montebello Boulevard.

While the physical bumps and bruises have all healed, the memories still linger.

“Every time we drive by that intersection, Leilani says, ‘Remember what happened here, Mommy?’ I say, ‘How can I forget, baby.’”

Leilani, now almost sixteen, like many teens, has no urge to drive herself. She’s more than content letting her mom stay behind the wheel.

Christine still wonders what could have happened if she had stayed in bed on October 22, rather than go to the child seat inspection.

“What if Leilani’s seat hadn’t been replaced?” wonders Christine. “What if her seat was anchored in the passenger side rear seat at the time of the collision? What if I hadn’t buckled up properly? Would we still be alive?”

What if, indeed.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. It's more than a slogan; it's who we are.

For the past 100 years, we've made it our mission to restore lives, help rebuild neighborhoods, invest in communities, and support education and safety initiatives – like car seat safety - where we live and work. It's what being a good neighbor is all about. 

State Farm is the largest insurer of cars and homes in the U.S.

“The Board of Directors welcomes State Farm Board representatives Scott Winn, Small Business Insurance Loss Control Administrator, and Liz Pulver, Transportation Safety Research Senior Program Manager, to NETS,” said Terry Thomas, NETS Board Chair and Global Director of Health & Safety Technology Solutions, UPS. “State Farm is a well-recognized brand that has a long history as a safety pioneer since being founded in 1922 through their efforts to protect customers and communities from the risks of everyday life at home and on the road. Collectively, the NETS Board of Directors could not be more pleased, and we look forward to collaborating with Scott and Liz as we work to reduce risk and save lives.”

“State Farm is excited to join NETS’ Board of Directors and looks forward to partnering with other respected companies to improve road safety for employees and motorists,” Scott Winn said. “Our commitment to the safety of all road users drives State Farm leadership participation in organizations like NETS,” Liz Pulver added.

NETS’ Board of Directors members are comprised of public and private sector leaders with a commitment to road safety. They are senior level leaders who promote NETS’ mission and represent businesses and organizations that have created a proactive safety culture by promoting traffic safety policies and awareness activities in their workplaces.

Established in 1989, NETS board of director companies are recognized in the U.S. and around the world for advancing road safety. State Farm joins current board members Acertus, Chubb, Consolidated Edison, Hess Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, Toyota North America, and UPS. In addition, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) serve as federal liaisons to the board of directors.

About NETS

NETS is a 501(c)3 public/private partnership dedicated to improving the safety of employees, their families, and members of the communities in which they live and work by preventing traffic crashes that occur both on and off-the-job.

NETS is a member of the United Nations Road Safety Collaboration, which provides guidance to the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030 global initiative. For more information on NETS, visit www.trafficsafety.org.

Preparedness Day encourages people and organizations to come together on a single day to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks, and it provides a platform to share information and offer guidance to residents as they make changes to improve the survival of their homes and neighborhoods.  Thanks to support from State Farm, 150 grant recipients across 24 states will receive project funding awards of $500 each to support their wildfire mitigation activities on Preparedness Day. See the list of winners.

Over the past decade, the U.S. has witnessed a steady rise in wildfire activity. Experts predict this trend will continue. Despite the $2 to $3 billion per year to support wild land fire suppression efforts, the number of homes lost in wildfires per year has increased by more than 160 percent.

Wildfire risk exists in all 50 states. There is still time to make homes and communities safer from wildfire. NFPA and State Farm encourage people to get involved by planning a project and participating on May 1. Take the first step with the help of the free NFPA Wildfire Community Preparedness Day Toolkit. NFPA suggests a three-stage process to reduce wildfire fuel and fashion a buffer around property. To create defensible space and reduce your risk:

• Raking and removing pine needles and dry leaves within a minimum of 3 to 5 feet of a home’s foundation. As time permits, continue up to a 30-foot distance around the home. Dispose of collected debris in appropriate trash receptacles.
• Cleaning pine needles from roof and gutters and paying attention to maintaining the home ignition zone.
• Getting out your measuring tape and seeing how close wood piles are located to the home. If closer than 30 feet, they need to be relocated and moved at least 30’ away from structures.
• Sweeping porches and decks clearing them of leaves and pine needles. Raking under decks, porches, sheds and play structures.
• Removing items stored under decks and porches and relocating them to a storage shed, garage, or basement. Gasoline cans and portable propane tanks should never be stored indoors and should be located away from the home.
• Posting and sharing Facebook and Twitter messages with tips and best practices with others in your community. (See sample posts from NFPA here.)

State Farm also recommends policyholders:

• Review your insurance policy to make sure you’re covered in the event of a wildfire
• Create a home inventory to assist in the claims process
• Create a disaster preparedness plan that includes your pets and animals

For more resources and information about national Wildfire Community Preparedness Day including videos and tip sheets, visit www.wildfireprepday.org.

January 11, 2021 – The threat of wildfire is becoming increasingly prevalent and dangerous, posing greater risks to people and property than ever before. With challenges to holding large public gatherings in many areas this year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and State Farm® are hosting the eighth annual Wildfire Community Preparedness Day (Preparedness Day) event on Saturday, May 1, 2021 with a focus on what homeowners can do now to help protect their personal property from wildfire.

Years of scientific research support the prescription of removing fuel sources from the area around the home – known as the “home ignition zone” – and is a key component to making a home safe from embers and radiant heat from wildfires. Simple, low cost home improvement projects such as clearing dead leaves, debris, and pine needles from roofs and gutters, keeping lawns and native grasses mowed to a height of four inches, removing anything stored underneath decks or porches that could burn, and other similar actions are being actively supported by NFPA and State Farm on Preparedness Day and can be easily undertaken by the majority of homeowners.

Since 2014, community groups and individuals have taken part in the campaign, completing hundreds of wildfire safety projects across the United States. Preparedness Day gives people of all ages a chance to plan and participate in a risk reduction or wildfire preparedness activity that makes their homes and community a safer place to live.

Financial support from State Farm will once again enable NFPA to provide 150 applicants from across the country with $500 awards to complete a wildfire risk reduction project on Saturday, May 1. Project applications can be submitted through February 26, 2021. Apply for an award.

Over the past decade, the U.S. has witnessed a steady increase in wildfire activity. Experts predict this trend will remain. Despite billions of dollars to support wildland fire suppression efforts, the number of homes lost in wildfires per year has increased by 163 percent and wildfires now cost the U.S. an estimated $63 to $285 billion per year in losses.

“There are nearly 45 million homes in areas prone to wildfire today, and wildfire risk is nearly present in every state,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “In preparation for a future with more wildfire activity, homeowners need to understand their role and take action in reducing wildfire risk. Preparedness Day 2021 offers communities a unique opportunity to engage in this process.”

“State Farm finds it important to inform and encourage homeowners and communities to adopt effective wildfire mitigation programs that produce stronger, safer homes where lives are saved and a family’s largest investment is better protected,” said Vickie Hodges, State Farm Underwriting Analyst.

For more information about Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, funding awards, project ideas, and free resources to download, please visit www.wildfireprepday.org.

For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research and resources, please visit the NFPA press room.

Resources:

• www.nfpa.org
• Wildfire Education
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• Tips to help prepare for and recover from wildfires
• What to Do After a House Fire

Join the conversation on Yammer!

After a harrowing encounter with a deer in southeastern Pennsylvania this fall, Chrissi Rhodes Villa has a simple message for you.

“Please be careful on the roads and watch for deer,” she said.

In an instant, a deer bounded into the road and collided with their car, one of nearly 2 million crashes with animals every year.

“We weren’t going fast,” Rhodes Villa said. “It just happened so fast.”

It’s not an unusual occurrence, especially in October, November and December. U.S. drivers on average have a 1 in 116 chance of a collision with an animal, according to the State Farm^® annual study. There were over 1.9 million animal collision insurance claims in the U.S. between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020.

Pennsylvania ranks third in the country with drivers having a 1-in-51 chance of an animal collision. West Virginia (1-in-37) again tops the list, followed by Montana (1-in-47). South Dakota and Michigan round out the top five, followed by Wisconsin, Iowa, Mississippi, Minnesota and Wyoming.

The large majority of animal collisions are with deer. For the year July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 there were estimated to be 1.5 million deer claims industry-wide.

“Claims after collisions with an animal range from small dents to totaled vehicles and injured drivers and passengers,” says Michael Braaten, director, Enterprise Research. “By sharing ways to help drivers be aware of the increased dangers this time of year – including inclement weather, shorter periods of daylight and students driving home after evening activities – State Farm hopes to help decrease the number of collisions and injuries.”

Hawaii (1-in-649), Nevada (1-in-551) and California (1-in-427) are the states where drivers have the least chance of an animal collision.

How Can You Avoid Deer in Your Headlights?

Growing deer and other animal populations combined with the displacement of animal habitats are making animal crashes more likely. There’s no real way to keep large animals like deer, moose, and elk off the road, but these safety tips can help you prevent animal-car collisions.

• Stay alert. Pay attention to "deer crossing" and other signs and be cautious in areas near woods or water.

• Use high beams. Flicking your high beams on a deer in the road may cause the animal to scurry away. High beams also help illuminate dark roads.

• Don't swerve. If an animal-car crash is inevitable, maintain control of your vehicle and don't veer off the road.

• Brake as necessary. If you can avoid hitting the animal, reduce your speed, honk your horn and tap your brakes to warn other drivers. If there are no drivers behind you, brake hard.

• Remember peak season. Deer crashes happen most during October through December, which is hunting and mating season. Collisions are most likely to happen in West Virginia, Montana, Pennsylvania and South Dakota.

• Remember meal time. Watch for animals in the road between dusk and dawn.

• Watch for herds. If you see one deer, there are probably more nearby.

• Don't rely on a whistle. No scientific evidence supports that car-mounted deer whistles work.

• Wear seat belts. Always obey speed limits and wear seat belts.

“Please be careful on the roads and watch for deer,” she said.

In an instant, a deer bounded into the road and collided with their car, one of nearly 2 million crashes with animals every year.

“We weren’t going fast,” Rhodes Villa said. “It just happened so fast.”

It’s not an unusual occurrence, especially in October, November and December. U.S. drivers on average have a 1 in 116 chance of a collision with an animal, according to the State Farm^® annual study. There were over 1.9 million animal collision insurance claims in the U.S. between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020.

Pennsylvania ranks third in the country with drivers having a 1-in-51 chance of an animal collision. West Virginia (1-in-37) again tops the list, followed by Montana (1-in-47). South Dakota and Michigan round out the top five, followed by Wisconsin, Iowa, Mississippi, Minnesota and Wyoming.

The large majority of animal collisions are with deer. For the year July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 there were estimated to be 1.5 million deer claims industry-wide.

“Claims after collisions with an animal range from small dents to totaled vehicles and injured drivers and passengers,” says Michael Braaten, director, Enterprise Research. “By sharing ways to help drivers be aware of the increased dangers this time of year – including inclement weather, shorter periods of daylight and students driving home after evening activities – State Farm hopes to help decrease the number of collisions and injuries.”

Hawaii (1-in-649), Nevada (1-in-551) and California (1-in-427) are the states where drivers have the least chance of an animal collision.

How Can You Avoid Deer in Your Headlights?

Growing deer and other animal populations combined with the displacement of animal habitats are making animal crashes more likely. There’s no real way to keep large animals like deer, moose, and elk off the road, but these safety tips can help you prevent animal-car collisions.

Stay alert. Pay attention to "deer crossing" and other signs and be cautious in areas near woods or water.

Use high beams. Flicking your high beams on a deer in the road may cause the animal to scurry away. High beams also help illuminate dark roads.

Don't swerve. If an animal-car crash is inevitable, maintain control of your vehicle and don't veer off the road.

Brake as necessary. If you can avoid hitting the animal, reduce your speed, honk your horn and tap your brakes to warn other drivers. If there are no drivers behind you, brake hard.

Remember peak season. Deer crashes happen most during October through December, which is hunting and mating season. Collisions are most likely to happen in West Virginia, Montana, Pennsylvania and South Dakota.

Remember meal time. Watch for animals in the road between dusk and dawn.

Watch for herds. If you see one deer, there are probably more nearby.

Don't rely on a whistle. No scientific evidence supports that car-mounted deer whistles work.

Wear seat belts. Always obey speed limits and wear seat belts.

In the News

• AccuWeather.com:  Ways to steer clear of deer this year (11/10/20)

More than 35,300 insurance claims were filed with State Farm in the week following the Laura’s landfall. Residents across Louisiana and Texas continue reporting damage to their homes and vehicles as impacted areas become more accessible. State Farm catastrophe response drone teams are assessing damage for customers across Lake Charles and other impacted areas.

Please continue to monitor local information. When it is safe to do so, make (or have a contractor make) temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your home or property. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps, plywood or other repair supplies. Take photos/videos of damage for claim documentation.

To get the claims process started, you can file your claim online, call 1-800-SFCLAIM (800-732-5246) or contact your State Farm agent.

We're continuing to gear up claims resources in response to #HurricaneLaura. We're balancing health and safety with our commitment to customers, we’re working virtually and in person, practicing social distancing with protective equipment.

The State Farm Weather and Catastrophe Team is being dispatched to the hardest hit areas.

Face-to-Face protocols, adjustments and staffing during COVID-19

• First and foremost, we are committed to the health and safety of our customers, the communities where we live and work, and our claim employees.
• Our claim operations remain open and available to service your claims. We are monitoring this changing health issue and continually evaluating our response.
• Virtual claim inspection options are available in most states if legally permitted.
• Claims can always be submitted and managed by calling or emailing your State Farm agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, submitting a claim through our mobile app or through our website at statefarm.com/claims.
• Continuous innovation and adaptation have positioned State Farm as the insurance industry leader. The pandemic is a rapidly changing situation and the decisions we are making balance health concerns with our obligation to continue to serve you.

More tips and resources:

• Avoid driving if possible. If you have to travel, turn around if the road is flooded or blocked by debris.
• Stay away from downed power lines. Anything touching the power line can carry a charge. Report the downed line and avoid the area.
• Simple Insights: Hurricane disaster cleanup after the storm

In the News:

• KADN-15: State Farm Using Drones to Assess Damage (9/4/20)
• The Times-Picayune: State Farm insurance claims hit 24,800 for Louisiana homeowners after Hurricane Laura (9/1/20)
• CBS-42: Like good neighbors, Alabamians are there (8/27/20)
• WVTM-13: Hurricane Laura relief staging in Birmingham area (8/27/20)
• The Weather Channel: CAT 2 Laura Moving Inland (8/27/20)
• Houston Chronicle: Season's first hurricane gives Texans a taste of how COVID has shaped insurance claims (8/4/20)
• AccuWeather: Now is the time to prepare for hurricane season (6/1/20)

• One in eight U.S. adults admits to having driven under the influence of marijuana.
• 76% of the American public believe incidents of driving after consuming marijuana will increase.
• 27% recall a friend or family member driving within two hours of consuming alcohol sometime during the past three months.
• 26% think that driving after recent consumption of marijuana is “not too concerning” or “not at all concerning.”
• 31% of parents and grandparents report discussing the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol “often." While 43% of parents and grandparents surveyed reported “never” broaching the subject of driving high with the next generation.
• There is uncertainty whether it is legal to drive impaired by marijuana:
  • 40% view this as a serious crime,
  • 27% say it is only a minor traffic offense,
  • 4% think it is legal, and 27% are unsure.
  • 41% are unsure or incorrectly believe that people who regularly use marijuana are generally not impaired, making it safe to drive.

The cannabis survey was funded by State Farm^® and General Motors. It measured the American public’s attitudes and knowledge about the impact of marijuana on traffic safety. The report's publication coincides with the 40th Anniversary of MADD's founding on Sept. 5.

These small, lightweight and partially or fully motorized devices are known as PTDs. They are part of a new mode of transportation called micromobility. You may own a PTD or ridden one or seen other people doing so as part of a shared fleet.

The use of these devices saw a dramatic uptick at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some people are leery of being in close quarters and using public transportation. So many of them gravitated to alternative forms of getting around.

Whether you ride a PTD or share the road or sidewalk with people who do, safety first. 

These tips can help keep you and others safe:

• Learn to ride. Before your first trip, review the PTD operating instructions in your owner’s manual or on the app on your phone. It’s likely, the app also includes safety tips and local rules, so review those, too. If available, take advantage of free hands-on training offered by local shared fleet programs and providers.
• Be visible. Don’t assume motorists can see you. Wear bright, reflective clothing especially at night and in inclement weather. Ride on well-lit streets and pathways whenever possible.
• Protect your head. Helmets may be required, so check out local laws. Even if they aren’t, a helmet can help prevent serious head injury in the event of a fall or crash.
• Know where you can ride. Some communities have "no riding zones" or restrictions on sidewalk riding. Before riding, read up on local rules via your town’s website or the PTD provider’s app. Once on the road, be on the lookout for, and follow all signs. You may also receive no riding or other alerts via your cellphone.
• Abide by the rules of the road and sidewalk. PTD operators must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles do on roads. Whether riding on a road or sidewalk, obey all signs and signals. Slow down for and yield to pedestrians and respect the right of way.
• Ride solo and never with children. PTDs are designed for use by one rider at a time. The American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends children under 16 not ride on or operate a PTD. However, these devices are often easily accessible to minors. They can sign up via an app without parental consent – so check your child’s phone and make sure they know the rules and your expectations.
• Watch out for poor road conditions. Potholes, manhole covers, grates, gravel, cracks and rough, wet or icy pavement can make for an uncomfortable and unsafe ride. Many PTD injuries are the result of these conditions. Be on the lookout for and avoid staring at these hazards (e-scooters tend to go where you’re looking!) and find a safe way to navigate around them.
• Ride fully alert. Reaction time and decision making are critical for safely operating a PTD. Don't let alcohol and other drugs, headphones or mobile devices impact your judgement.
• Park smart. Dockless bikes and scooters can be left anywhere, but they should always be parked upright and never block the right of way. Use designated PTD parking places (corrals) if available. Or park in the furniture zone – the first five feet of the curb, where there are typically benches or trees. Then place one wheel on the curb and the other in the street.

These tips and more information on micromobility are part of the new report: Understanding and Tackling Micromobility: Transportation’s New Disruptor. It was produced by the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA) with funding from State Farm.

With over 360 active fires across California and elsewhere, State Farm® is committed to the people and communities we serve. As acres continue to burn, evacuate if ordered to do so or if risk appears imminent. 

Customers impacted by wildfires can visit st8.fm/claim or call 1-800-SFCLAIM to file a claim.

Your agent can also help and give you more time to pay your premium if needed.

Visit CalFire for Information and Resources

Part of a mandatory evacuation?

• Safety first:  Material things can be replaced but the loss of life or serious injury can’t be fixed.
• Stay tuned:  Follow news reports and information from first responders.
• Keep living expenses receipts:  They may be reimbursable after meeting your deductible.
• What to expect from the claims process:  We will work with you closely to resolve your claim.

Steps to take now before your home is threatened

• Know Your Evacuation Plan:  Create it, discuss it and include where to go/reunite, who to call, etc.
• Make a home inventory:  Take pictures and video to document your personal possessions, because proof of ownership can make your claim settlement easier and faster. A quick video of each room can help later on.
• Back up your information:  Back up vital photos, documents and financial information.
• Create an evacuation package:  Put original vital documents and irreplaceable items (paper photos, family heirlooms, etc.) in one place so it is ready to go.
• Talk to your agent:  Discuss your coverage needs, understand your deductible and the difference between the current market value of a property and its replacement cost.

When it is safe to do so, file a claim.

• Contact us to get the process started - contact your agent, call 1-800-SF-Claim, go to st8.fm/claim or use our mobile application.

Face-to-Face protocols, adjustments and staffing during COVID-19

• First and foremost, we are committed to the health and safety of our customers, the communities where we live and work, and our claim employees.
• Our claim operations remain open and available to service your claims. We are monitoring this changing health issue and continually evaluating our response.
• Virtual claim inspection options are available in most states if legally permitted.
• Claims can always be submitted and managed by calling or emailing your State Farm agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, submitting a claim through our mobile app or through our website at statefarm.com/claims.
• Continuous innovation and adaptation have positioned State Farm as the insurance industry leader. The pandemic is a rapidly changing situation and the decisions we are making balance health concerns with our obligation to continue to serve you.

Resources:

• Wildfire Preparation Infographic
• Cal Fire
• www.nfpa.org
• National Interagency Fire Center
• NFPA Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• Insurance Information Institute: Road to Recovery: 3 Key Steps to Simplify Filing Wildfire Damage Claims

Visit Simple Insights for more articles and tips to help you and your family prepare for and recover from wildfires.

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Already through July 7, there have been 26,321 fires in the United States*. Though they have burned more than 1.5 million acres and are above last year’s pace, the numbers are lower than the 10-year average.

There's still time to get your property more wildfire-ready. And, it can be completed over the course of a weekend, leaving you time for your summertime pool parties or backyard BBQs.

Wildfire risk exists in all 50 states. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests a three-stage process to reduce wildfire fuel and fashion a buffer around property. To create defensible space and reduce your risk:

• remove dead vegetation
• trim tree branches overhanging your roof, and
• remove combustible materials around structures.

“Preparing our communities for wildfire is more critical today than ever before,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “NFPA and State Farm work closely together on this yearly campaign in a continued effort to raise awareness and educate homeowners that they have the power to save their homes and communities before a wildfire ignites, and we have the resources and information to help.”

* according to the National Interagency Fire Center

Break your property into three zones.

Zone 1: the five feet closest to your home or business

• It requires the most careful selection and management of plants and materials. Maintaining this zone reduces the chance fire will ignite near your building and lead to a direct flame contact exposure

Zone 2: runs from five to 30 feet from your home or to the property line

• Maintaining plants in this zone helps prevent fire from climbing into the top portion of trees or shrubs. It stops fire from burning directly to your home.
• Wind-blown embers can still ignite individual islands of plants in this zone. It makes plant selection and maintenance in Zone 1 and plant spacing in Zone 2 critical. NFIP suggests removing dead materials and lower tree branches.

Zone 3: the remaining space of the property

• Maintain vegetation and be mindful of the spacing. This will reduce the energy of a wildfire, slowing its advance on your building. Proper spacing of trees and brush should force any fire in the tops of the trees, brush or shrubs to fall to the ground.

And don't forget...

• Maintain your decks. Remove debris and vegetation from on top of your deck, and do not store wood on or underneath it. Store combustibles, like patio umbrellas and furniture, inside.
• Don’t neglect rain gutters. Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves and porches. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Assess your wildfire risks and review your insurance policy to make sure you’re covered in the event of a wildfire.
• Create a home inventory to assist in the claims process if wildfire does strike.

Resources:

• Wildfire Preparation Infographic
• www.nfpa.org
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory

Visit Simple Insights for more articles and tips to help you and your family prepare for and recover from wildfires.

There's still time to get your property more wildfire-ready. And, it can be completed over the course of a weekend, leaving you time for your summertime pool parties or backyard BBQs.

Wildfire risk exists in all 50 states. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests a three-stage process to reduce wildfire fuel and fashion a buffer around property. To create defensible space and reduce your risk:

• remove dead vegetation
• trim tree branches overhanging your roof, and
• remove combustible materials around structures.

“Preparing our communities for wildfire is more critical today than ever before,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “NFPA and State Farm work closely together on this yearly campaign in a continued effort to raise awareness and educate homeowners that they have the power to save their homes and communities before a wildfire ignites, and we have the resources and information to help.”

* according to the National Interagency Fire Center

Break your property into three zones.

Zone 1: the five feet closest to your home or business

• It requires the most careful selection and management of plants and materials. Maintaining this zone reduces the chance fire will ignite near your building and lead to a direct flame contact exposure

Zone 2: runs from five to 30 feet from your home or to the property line

• Maintaining plants in this zone helps prevent fire from climbing into the top portion of trees or shrubs. It stops fire from burning directly to your home.
• Wind-blown embers can still ignite individual islands of plants in this zone. It makes plant selection and maintenance in Zone 1 and plant spacing in Zone 2 critical. NFIP suggests removing dead materials and lower tree branches.

Zone 3: the remaining space of the property

• Maintain vegetation and be mindful of the spacing. This will reduce the energy of a wildfire, slowing its advance on your building. Proper spacing of trees and brush should force any fire in the tops of the trees, brush or shrubs to fall to the ground.

And don't forget...

• Maintain your decks. Remove debris and vegetation from on top of your deck, and do not store wood on or underneath it. Store combustibles, like patio umbrellas and furniture, inside.
• Don’t neglect rain gutters. Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves and porches. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Assess your wildfire risks and review your insurance policy to make sure you’re covered in the event of a wildfire.
• Create a home inventory to assist in the claims process if wildfire does strike.

Resources:

• Wildfire Preparation Infographic
• www.nfpa.org
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• What to Do After a House Fire

Visit Simple Insights for more articles and tips to help you and your family prepare for and recover from wildfires.

Thanks to support from State Farm, 150 communities across 26 states will receive project funding awards of $500 each to support activities aimed at reducing potential loss of life, property, and natural resources to wildfire. See this year’s list of winners.

Saturday, May 2 is national Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. For the past seven years, this day has been a focal point for community projects to reduce wildfire risk. This year, due to COVID-19 and related state and local measures to combat its spread, NFPA and State Farm support communities postponing organized preparedness efforts until later in the year or such time that it is safe to do so.

In the meantime, NFPA is sharing ideas for actions that individuals and families can take to reduce wildfire risk and potential losses where they live, including:

• Raking and removing pine needles and dry leaves within a minimum of 3 to 5 feet of a home’s foundation. As time permits, continue up to a 30-foot distance around the home. Dispose of collected debris in appropriate trash receptacles.
• Cleaning pine needles from roof and gutters and paying attention to maintaining the home ignition zone.
• Getting out your measuring tape and seeing how close wood piles are located to the home. If closer than 30 feet, they need to be relocated and moved at least 30’ away from structures.
• Sweeping porches and decks clearing them of leaves and pine needles. Raking under decks, porches, sheds and play structures.
• Mowing grasses to a height of four inches or less.
• Removing items stored under decks and porches and relocating them to a storage shed, garage, or basement. Gasoline cans and portable propane tanks should never be stored indoors and should be located away from the home.
• Posting and sharing Facebook and Twitter messages with tips and best practices with others in your community. (See sample posts from NFPA here.)

Over the last few years wildfire events have made the need for preparedness activities more important than ever. In 2018, nearly all of the $13 billion in property damage and losses from large fire incidents in the U.S. was due to just six wildfires. As annual federal spending for wildfire management has gone from roughly $1 billion per year in the mid-1990’s to close to $4 billion per year today, the average annual area burned from wildfires has jumped from about two million to eight million acres over the same period.

For more information about national Wildfire Community Preparedness Day including videos and tip sheets, visit www.wildfireprepday.org.

Resources:

• www.nfpa.org
• Wildfire Education
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• Tips to help prepare for and recover from wildfires
• What to Do After a House Fire

Our hearts go out to all those impacted – especially family and friends of those who lost their lives. Safety is paramount as residents assess damage and begin the recovery process.

Start the claim process as soon as possible.

Take steps to prevent further damage as soon as it is safe to do so. There are four ways to start the claim process:

1. Online at www.statefarm.com/claims
2. Use the State Farm Mobile App
3. Call 1-800-SFCLAIM
4. Contact your State Farm Agent

Hundreds of customers have already filed claims. Our local agents and call center claim specialists are already assisting customers with their most immediate needs, like additional living expenses (ALE). The State Farm Claims Catastrophe Response Team is being deployed to the most heavily impacted areas to assist in the recovery. This additional personnel includes three drone teams.

Customers with damage should:

• Inspect your property. Document damage with pictures to share with your claims specialist.
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Take pictures and save receipts for materials purchased.
• Exercise caution when selecting a contractor. Storm recovery can be emotionally and physically draining. Don’t make a quick, emotional decision without recommendations. Obtain detailed written estimates and multiple bids.

Additional insurance considerations and storm recovery tips:

Tree removal can be very expensive right now because resources are spread thin. As a reminder, insurance only pays to remove trees impacting your home, building, fences or other structures. Coverage limits may apply to debris removal coverage.

Be wary of those who might try to capitalize on the storm.

• Ask for recommendations
• Beware of door-to-door solicited repairs
• Get multiple written estimates
• Always have a written, detailed estimate
• Don’t pay up front. Always inspect the completed work before payment.
• If making repairs, consider upgraded roofing materials (upgrades could result in insurance premium discounts).

If you have experienced a power outage:

• Never use candles for emergency lighting, use flashlights.
• Disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out. When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes”. This can damage computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
• Check to see if your homeowners policy covers damages resulting from outages. Subject to the deductible, your policy may cover spoiled food and other damages.
• Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.

State Farm is providing funding to NFPA for the Preparedness Day event and a portion will be awarded to 150 neighborhood wildfire risk reduction projects being implemented on Saturday, May 2. Preparedness Day gives people of all ages a chance to plan and participate in a risk reduction or wildfire preparedness activity that makes their community a safer place to live.

Project applications can be submitted through February 29, 2020. Apply for an award.

Motivate neighbors and community members to work together to make where they live a safer place from wildfire.

During Preparedness Day 2019, hundreds of projects were undertaken across the United States. Of those projects, 150 received funding from State Farm for activities that helped make residents and firefighters safer when wildfires happen.

According to reports, on average, wildfires burn twice as much land area each year as they did 40 years ago, and the threat continues to increase. In 2018, California saw its deadliest and most destructive fire, the Camp Fire, burn more than 150,000 acres and claim the lives of 88 people. Wildfires once described by “seasons” are now burning earlier and later in the year across the U.S.

"According to the recent, staggering statistics, preparing our communities for wildfire is more critical today than ever before,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “NFPA and State Farm work closely together on this yearly campaign in a continued effort to raise awareness and educate homeowners that they have the power to save their homes and communities before a wildfire ignites, and we have the resources and information to help.”

“State Farm finds it important to inform and encourage homeowners and communities to adopt effective wildfire mitigation programs that produce stronger, safer homes where lives are saved and a family’s largest investment is better protected,” said Vickie Hodges, underwriting analyst.

For more information about Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, funding awards, project ideas and free resources to download, please visit www.wildfireprepday.org.

For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research and resources, please visit the NFPA press room.

Resources:

• www.nfpa.org
• Wildfire Education
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• Tips to help prepare for and recover from wildfires
• What to Do After a House Fire

Rebuilding homes and neighborhoods takes time. Putting lives back together takes a toll on individuals, families and the community-at-large. The commitment to helping our customers recover continues.

As of mid-September 2019, State Farm has received approximately 8,100 home and auto claims related to these fires. Almost $1.3 billion has been paid on those claims.*

History of the State Farm response to the 2018 wildfires:

• As each wildfire event broke out, State Farm immediately began to position resources. People and equipment from across the country was deployed to the areas most impacted.
• Paid almost $1.3 billion in indemnity for the approximately 8,100 claims from the fires.*
• Community grants and volunteer efforts provided by the company and our associates continue to focus on emergency relief, home safety and wildfire preparedness.
• Advanced up to 50% for total loss of building coverage limit.
• Advanced up to 75% for total loss of content coverage limit without an inventory.
• Expedited payment of automobile claims for comprehensive loss coverage.
• Granted billing leniency for at least 30 days for customers in designated disaster areas.
• Allowed grouping of categories of personal property to ease itemization of contents.
• State Farm claim handlers are available to help policyholders complete every step of the inventory process.

* These numbers include the Ventura/Santa Barbara mudflow event. Heavy Jan. rains in the aftermath of the Dec. 2017 Thomas fire triggered that earth movement.

As the country's largest provider of auto and home insurance, we have faced countless significant weather and other major disasters throughout our 97-year history. Our State Farm agents, agent’s staff, local employees and claims specialists are always prepared to help customers with their claims. Before, during and after a catastrophic event, we help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

Don't Get Burned Twice: Hire a Reputable Contractor:

• Contact your local home builders association or remodelers council for a directory of reputable contractors.
• Make sure the contractors are currently licensed, registered and insured.
• Get at least three different estimates.
• Insist on a written contract that includes: contractor's contact information, project timeline, payment schedule and permit requirements.

Signs of Poor Business Practices or Possible Scam Involving a Contractor:

• Pushy door-to-door sales tactics or unsolicited calls are common after a disaster.
• Promising discounts for using leftover materials or for referring other customers.
• Insisting on a large deposit or cash payments in full.
• Asking you to secure building permits.
• Unwillingness to provide local contact information.

A State Farm customer in Atlanta recently left a pan on the stove unattended, and it caught fire. They forgot the adage and attempted to put out the fire by throwing water on it. While nobody was hurt, the damage increased.

"The result was $9,000 in insured damages to the stove, cabinets, countertops and floor," said their agent Ken Anderson, of Alpharetta, Georgia. “You should never use water to try and put out a grease fire."

It could have been worse. The average State Farm cooking/grease fire claim in the U.S. was more than $48,000 in 2018.

Georgia is the top state for cooking fire losses. Anderson has seen at least two dozen cooking-related fire claims in his 38 years as an agent. Many were made worse when oil and water mixed.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires. One out of three home fires begins in the kitchen - more than any other place in the home. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of kitchen fires. NFPA data shows that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.

The oil and water pitfalls are not reserved to the kitchen. Last year, around Thanksgiving, one of Ken's customers attempted to fry a frozen turkey. In addition to not having thawed the bird, the customer had too much oil in the fryer. When he dropped the turkey in, the hot oil spilled over, leaving him with second degree burns and a damaged deck.

Among the advice Ken shares with customers?

“Make sure you have smoke detectors and fire extinguishers that are up to date,” he said. “And, keep a cooking or grease fire-approved fire extinguisher nearby when cooking or frying.”

It pays to follow the advice. In 2018, State Farm paid more than $118 million for nearly 2,500 cooking/grease fire homeowners* claims across the U.S.

*Note: excludes renters and condo unit claims.

Because many families and friends engage in cooking during the holidays, it is important to follow some basic safety tips:

• Always keep an eye on what you are cooking/frying. Never leave the cooking area unattended.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.
• Keep a lid beside the pan when cooking. If a fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Never throw water on a grease fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher approved for cooking or grease fires nearby. Make sure your smoke alarms are working.

Mouse over (or touch on mobile) the + on the interactive image below to see the safety tips.

A State Farm customer in Atlanta recently left a pan on the stove unattended, and it caught fire. They forgot the adage and attempted to put out the fire by throwing water on it. While nobody was hurt, the damage increased.

"The result was $9,000 in insured damages to the stove, cabinets, countertops and floor," said their agent Ken Anderson, of Alpharetta, Georgia. “You should never use water to try and put out a grease fire."

It could have been worse. The average State Farm cooking/grease fire claim in the U.S. was more than $48,000 in 2018.

Georgia is the top state for cooking fire losses. Anderson has seen at least two dozen cooking-related fire claims in his 38 years as an agent. Many were made worse when oil and water mixed.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires. One out of three home fires begins in the kitchen - more than any other place in the home. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of kitchen fires. NFPA data shows that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.

The oil and water pitfalls are not reserved to the kitchen. Last year, around Thanksgiving, one of Ken's customers attempted to fry a frozen turkey. In addition to not having thawed the bird, the customer had too much oil in the fryer. When he dropped the turkey in, the hot oil spilled over, leaving him with second degree burns and a damaged deck.

Among the advice Ken shares with customers?

“Make sure you have smoke detectors and fire extinguishers that are up to date,” he said. “And, keep a cooking or grease fire-approved fire extinguisher nearby when cooking or frying.”

It pays to follow the advice. In 2018, State Farm paid more than $118 million for nearly 2,500 cooking/grease fire homeowners* claims across the U.S.

*Note: excludes renters and condo unit claims.

Because many families and friends engage in cooking during the holidays, it is important to follow some basic safety tips:

• Always keep an eye on what you are cooking/frying. Never leave the cooking area unattended.
• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.
• Keep a lid beside the pan when cooking. If a fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Never throw water on a grease fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher approved for cooking or grease fires nearby. Make sure your smoke alarms are working.

Mouse over (or touch on mobile) the + on the interactive image below to see the safety tips.

• They are more than twice as likely to be hit and killed by a car on Halloween compared to any other day of the year. 
• 23% of fatalities occur with children between the ages of five and eight.
• 70% of accidents occur away from an intersection or crosswalk.

Whether you're going door-to-door, driving or passing out treats at home, State Farm wants to help keep your little princesses, pirates, and police officers safe this Halloween with these tips:

If you're going door-to-door

• Always accompany young children.
• Exercise great caution during the "scariest" hours - between 5 and 9 p.m. It is especially dangerous for pedestrian accidents between 6 pm and 7 pm.
• Stick to neighborhoods with sidewalks. If you must walk on the street, keep to the far left, facing traffic.
• Practice safe crossing procedures - use crosswalks; wait for corners; and look left, right and left again before crossing.
• Stick reflective tape onto costumes to make your child more visible. Also have them carry a flashlight.
• Make sure costumes and shoes are the correct size to prevent tripping.
• Use face paint and leave the masks at home. They can obstruct vision.
• If an older child is venturing out without supervision, ask them to go with a group. Discuss the route and agree on a curfew. Give older kids cell phones so they can stay in touch.

If you're driving

• Drive slowly
• Be alert for children and eliminate in-car distractions.
• Practice extra caution at intersections and corners.
• Pull in and out of driveways carefully.
• Discuss these and other driving pointers with your teen driver. Drivers ages 15-25 were involved in approximately one-third of fatal crashes involving child pedestrians on Halloween.

If you're handing out treats

• Keep your home brightly lit indoors and outside.
• Clear debris and other obstacles from your lawn, sidewalks and steps.
• Opt for battery-operated candles in jack-o'-lanterns or other areas where costumed trick-or-treaters might stand.
• Keep pets kenneled or in another room.

In addition to protecting children from accidents, remind them of "stranger danger" on Halloween. Teach children to visit only well-lit homes. Tell them to avoid dark streets and to not enter unknown homes. Kids should show their candy to parents before eating it. Homemade treats from people they don't know shouldn't be eaten.

Visit CA.gov for Power Outage and Fire Recovery Resources

State Farm is deeply committed to the communities we serve. We stand ready to help.

Customers impacted by the California wildfires can visit st8.fm/claim or call 1-800-SFCLAIM to file a claim.

Your agent can also help and give you more time to pay your premium if needed.

Problems paying your loan? Call 1-877-SF4-BANK.

Part of a mandatory evacuation?

• Safety first:  Material things can be replaced but the loss of life or serious injury can’t be fixed.
• Stay tuned:  Follow news reports and information from first responders.
• Keep living expenses receipts:  They may be reimbursable after meeting your deductible.
• What to expect from the claims process:  We will work with you closely to resolve your claim.

If you have not been evacuated but your home could become threatened - time is of the essence.

• Know Your Evacuation Plan:  Create it, discuss it and include where to go/reunite, who to call, etc.
• Make a home inventory:  Document your personal possessions, because proof of ownership can make your claim settlement easier and faster. A quick video of each room can help a lot later on.
• Back up your information:  Back up vital photos, documents and financial information.
• Create an evacuation package:  Put original vital documents and irreplaceable items (paper photos, family heirlooms, etc.) in one place so it is ready to go.
• Talk to your agent:  Discuss your coverage needs, understand your deductible and the difference between the current market value of a property and its replacement cost.

If you suffer damage, file a claim.

• When it is safe to do so, file a claim. Contact State Farm® to get the process started - contact your agent, call 1-800-SF-Claim, go to st8.fm/claim or use our mobile application.

Wildfires are causing more damage to homes and businesses each year. So far in 2019, there have been more than 44,537 wildfires*. These have burned almost 4.5 million acres and resulted in widespread damage, firefighter injuries, and the deaths of local residents.

There are currently seven active large fires in California. Residents are encouraged to take necessary action with regard to wildfire safety and to take steps to be prepared for wildfire.

* according to the National Interagency Fire Center

Resources:

• Wildfire Preparation Infographic
• Cal Fire
• www.nfpa.org
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• What to Do After a House Fire

Visit Simple Insights for more articles and tips to help you and your family prepare for and recover from wildfires.

In the News

• The Weather Channel:  Southern California Will Experience Strongest Santa Ana Winds Yet in New Round of Dangerous Fire Weather Conditions (10/29/19)

October and autumn have finally arrived for most parts of the country!

Research conducted by State Farm shows that October is the month with the most teen crash claims. Why is this? What’s the cause? Perhaps it’s because with the season comes with shorter days, hazardous weather conditions, and more after school activities. Personally, I find this time of year to be my busiest, and as a newly licensed driver. I find myself on the road more frequently to keep up with my busy schedule. This seems to be true for many of my friends and classmates too, and with more time on the road comes higher risks. Teens are especially vulnerable to distractions, impairment, and drowsiness, which makes any trip more dangerous.

Teens also lack experience behind the wheel. This makes even driving in perfect conditions a challenge. Even though there’s no true substitute for experience, my parents and I still work together on different skills that can help me be prepared for the unknowns of any trip. This preparation can include enrolling in drivers ed courses, reviewing state GDL laws, and establishing restrictions such as curfews and driving boundaries.

SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) works closely with State Farm to keep young people safe on the roads. In the third week of October, SADD and State Farm participate in National Teen Driver Safety Week. It is a time set aside to shine a spotlight on the #1 killer of teens - car crashes. In most recent studies, 3,255 teens ages 16-19 were involved in fatal car crashes. The most upsetting part about this statistic is that most all of these crashes are preventable. SADD students all across the country will be working with local State Farm agents to spread the word, educate teens and parents, and make sure everyone stays safe this October.

While this season is a fun time for many, we must work together to acknowledge the dangers of the road, specifically for teens. Teens - talk with your parents about good driving habits. Parents - monitor your teens to make sure they are safe behind the wheel. Simple decisions like wearing your seatbelt, putting down the cell phone, and limiting passengers can be the difference in making roads safer. Be safe out there and enjoy the colors of fall.

But, her memories are clouded by Sheryl’s fate – she was killed by her abusive husband. Renee, her two surviving sisters and her parents fought for 27 years to bring justice for their family member.

“Sheryl was the oldest of four girls and never dated. She met this guy who paid attention to her and ended up marrying him. He wasn’t nice and put her down in front of us. We could see she was isolated,” Renee, State Farm^® employee, says.

Back then, divorce was frowned upon and domestic violence was treated as hush-hush.

“She’d have bruises or a black eye and make up excuses. ‘Oh, I fell down the stairs’ or ‘I ran into a door.’ Back then, you didn’t talk about it.”

In 1990, when Sheryl was 29, she decided to file for divorce. With three young sons – ages 5, 3 and 18 months – the judge thought it would be a good idea for them all to share the house. The kids would stay in the home and one parent would stay at a time. One night, convincing her one of the boys was sick, her estranged husband got Sheryl into the home, tied her to the bed and attempted assault.

“She got the door unlocked and ran to the neighbors’ house. They called the police, and he was charged with aggravated attempted sexual assault and attempted murder,” Renee says. “They finally had the divorce hearing, and she was awarded sole custody of the children.”

Just over two weeks later, Sheryl was dead.

When she didn’t show up for her shift at the hospital one morning, a colleague phoned the home. Sheryl’s 5-year-old son answered and said his mom was asleep in the garage, and he couldn’t wake her. The nurse called 911. Sheryl was found in the garage with a rope around her neck.

“He killed her and set it up to make it look like she committed suicide,” Renee says.

But Sheryl’s cause of death was ruled undetermined.

“The years passed. Every year my mom and dad would make a trip to the state’s attorney and ask for updates on the case,” she says. “In late 2008, a woman was elected to the State’s Attorney Office. She was in law school at the University of Illinois when my sister was murdered. She remembered the case. She called my parents and said it’s not a closed case, it’s a cold case. She said she’d like to get it resolved.”

In 2016, 26 years after Sheryl’s death, an inquest was done leading to a coroner’s jury ruling her death a homicide. Professionals noted the bruising on Sheryl’s neck was inconsistent with a hanging. Two months later, her former husband was arrested and charged in Sheryl’s death.

During the trial, prosecutors shared transcripts from Sheryl’s divorce case hearing, in which she was seeking a protective order. They shared details about the attack that happened about two weeks before her murder, along with testimony from her sisters and friends to prove a pattern of escalating sexual violence.

The jury took less than three hours to convict him of first degree murder. He was sentenced to 55 years in prison and must serve at least half.

“The judge told him, ‘You will spend a year behind bars for every year you’ve been free since you murdered her.’ That’s justice for Sheryl,” Renee says.

“While it’s hard, I am happy she finally has a voice. There are so many stories of domestic violence survivors. I want to tell her story because while she didn’t survive, she still has a story.”

Here are their stories...

Aria the American Bull Dog

Wanting a family dog is a common request from kids and the Terraneau crew was no different. Josh Terraneau, Riverside, CA State Farm agent, and his wife decided it was finally time and brought the whole family to the shelter to find their new family member, an adorable puppy.

"The moment our family walked through the local shelter and met Aria...it was kismet," said Josh. "My youngest son was 18 months at the time and Aria began sniffing him. It was obvious there was a natural connection and curiosity to one another."

The family asked if Aria could be let outside to play to see if they were a good fit. Josh describes the moment of seeing Aria running around the yard as witnessing the dog "blossoming." At that moment, the Terraneau family knew they had found their puppy.

As the one year anniversary of Aria's adoption nears, Josh shares, "I cannot imagine my family without her. She's just such a big part of our family"

Santa Paws and Fido

A passionate owner of five dogs and an advocate for dogs and safety, Linda Newell, a San Diego, CA State Farm agent, works hard to educate her community. She teams up with local veterinary offices and school educators to teach children about dogs. She distributes an activity book, Fido! Friend or Foe to the children.

"I love meeting the members of my community – the dogs and their owners," said Linda."And it's so important to teach the kids about dogs and how to be safe."

Linda also teams up with Santa Paws during the holidays. Together they provide her new customers, who are dog owners, with doggie goodie bags, and the opportunity to get a holiday photo with their pets.

Hundreds of people take advantage of this unique opportunity including a local military wife whose husband was deploying in a few days. The special picture gave her family comfort while her husband was overseas serving our country during the holidays.

The Playful Golden Retriever

State Farm Agent Shea Ferraro describes his golden retriever, O'Malley, as a friendly dog who loves people and the pool. He attributes her friendliness to early socialization with other dogs and people. Since an early age, O'Malley would frequent dog parks, dog beaches, and dog-friendly restaurants. During the summer, you can find O'Malley swimming in their pool. O'Malley enjoys catching a ball in her mouth, and then placing her head on the ledge of the pool. She waits there until someone is ready to toss her the ball for hours of endless fun.

Kensie the Pit Bull

Kensie the pit bull was shaking in fear in the animal shelter. Fortunately, Rob Bills, a Mission Viejo, CA State Farm agent, was with his family looking to adopt a new dog. Rob already was the owner of two loyal pit bulls and he knew he could give Kensie the home she deserved.

"She appeared physically and emotionally wounded," shared Rob. "She only weighed 30 pounds; very underweight for her age and size."

After years of caring for his new family member, Kensie weighs 50 pounds and trusts humans again. Rob says caring for three dogs is a great deal of work, but it's also "wonderful and very rewarding."

While walking your dog with a retractable leash, Rob Bills suggests owners be mindful of releasing the leash too suddenly.

He has observed face-to-face dog confrontations that could pose safety concerns for dogs who are still in training or are not yet socialized. Instead, Rob suggests dog owners talk first to determine whether the dogs can meet and play.

Owner of two dogs, State Farm Agent Andy Popka stresses the importance of getting to know your pet. In particular, by learning his dog Rowdy's body language, he knew which situations Rowdy perceived as threatening. For example, Rowdy used to run to a specific dog bed at their home any time he saw a person wearing a hat and sunglasses. Learning these signs from Rowdy, and their other dog, enabled Andy to tailor their training.

Insuring the underdog and more

"All dogs can be 'great dogs,' regardless of breed, if they are properly cared for, loved and trained," stated Agent Rob Bills.

State Farm determines risk based on a dog's bite history rather than breed. Thus, State Farm does not exclude insuring households solely based on breed.

Interested in reading more about dogs and State Farm, click here to enjoy a Huffington Post blog, Insuring the Underdog.

Rebuilding homes and neighborhoods takes time. Putting lives back together takes a toll on individuals, families and the community-at-large. The commitment to helping our customers recover continues.

As of mid-September 2019, State Farm has received approximately 10,000 home and auto claims related to these fires. Over $2 billion in indemnity has been paid.

History of the State Farm response to these fires:

• As each wildfire event broke out, State Farm immediately began to position resources. People and equipment from across the country was deployed to the areas most impacted.
• 700 State Farm associates were mobilized to work in 17 offices - including eight walk-up tents and two brick-and-mortar offices. Seven catastrophe response vehicles were deployed to assist our customers in the recovery process. The on-the-ground presence was continually adjusted to respond to changing circumstances and customer needs.
• Paid more than $2 billion in indemnity for the approximately 10,000 claims from the two fires.
• Community grants and volunteer efforts provided by the company and our associates continue to focus on emergency relief, home safety and wildfire preparedness.
• Advanced four months of Additional Living Expenses (ALE) upon request.
• Advanced up to 75% for total loss of content coverage limit without an inventory.
• Expedited payment of automobile claims for comprehensive loss coverage.
• Granted billing leniency for at least 30 days for customers in designated disaster areas.
• Allowed grouping of categories of personal property to ease itemization of contents.
• State Farm claim handlers are available to help policyholders complete every step of the inventory process.

As the country's largest provider of auto and home insurance, we have faced countless significant weather and other major disasters throughout our 97-year history. Our State Farm agents, agent’s staff, local employees and claims specialists are always prepared to help customers with their claims. Before, during and after a catastrophic event, we help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.

Resources:

• Cal Fire
• Insurance Information Institute
• NFPA Wildfire Education
• Firewise
• Valley Fire: Out of the Ashes
• Emergency Prep 101: Pet Evacuation Plan

Visit Simple Insights for more articles and tips to help you and your family prepare for and recover from wildfires.

Additional Infographic Links:

• Reducing wildfire risk: Infographic
• A Firewise Home: Infographic

In the News:

• Santa Monica Mirror: Number of Insurance Claims Recieved from the SoCal Wildfires Surpasses 1,500 for State Farm (12/14/17)
• KTVU: Insurance Agent Camps Out in Office to Serve Customers (10/18/17)
• KRON4 Bay Area: With fire insurance, make sure it covers what you need (10/17/17)
• KSEE-TV: With fire insurance, make sure it covers what you need (10/13/17)
• KCBS Radio: State Farm Releases New Home, Auto Insurance Claim Numbers From Fires (10/12/17)
• KCOY - Santa Barbara: Fire insurance on the minds of homeowners after seeing devastating fires across California (10/12/17)
• East Bay Times: Interview with agent Kelly Lux (10/11/17)
• The Press Democrat: North Coast insurance agents on protecting home, finances from fire (08/15/16)

To get the claims process started, you can file your claim online, call 1-800-SFCLAIM (800-732-5246) or contact your State Farm agent.

The State Farm Weather and Catastrophe Team is being dispatched to the hardest hit areas. Click the image to learn more about the capabilities of this industry-leading response unit.

More tips and resources:

• Avoid driving if possible. If you have to travel, turn around if the road is flooded or blocked by debris.
• Stay away from downed power lines. Anything touching the power line can carry a charge. Report the downed line and avoid the area.
• Simple Insights:  Hurricane disaster cleanup after the storm

In the News

• CBS WINK TV (Fort Myers, Naples, FL)  Time to review you insurance coverage (08-29-19)
• NBC Ch 6 (Miami) - Are You Ready for Dorian? Get ready now (08-27-19)
• El Nuevo Herald (Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Spanish) Is my home insured for hurricanes? (08-26-19)

The fine, while hefty, is nothing compared to the anguish distracted driving causes.

On Oct. 28, 2015, Joe Tikalsky was retrieving his newspaper from the road outside his home. A texting driver struck and killed the popular New Prague school bus driver.

Today his family advocates for distracted driving awareness.

Burying a loved one as a result of a preventable act is inconceivable to many. The Tikalskys’ hope Minnesota’s Hands-Free law keeps other families from experiencing their grief.

“Don’t be the person who decides someone else’s fate,” says Joe's daughter-in-law Tammi Tikalsky.

Unfortunately, the Tikalskys are not alone.

A 2018 Minnesota State Patrol report found distracted driving contributed to 1 in 4 Minnesota crashes. That's an average of 59 deaths and 223 serious injuries per year.

Minnesota is the 17th state to prohibit a person from holding a wireless device while driving.

Don’t be a distracted driver.

Distractions cause you to lose focus on safely operating your vehicle. Manual, visual or cognitive distractions are even causing many to drive dumber in their smart cars.

Texting, is among the worst of all driver distractions. Activities like reading a text message, taking a selfie or updating social media while driving are illegal and dangerous. Avoid the temptation by keeping your phone out of reach while driving. Pull over and park in a safe location if you must use your phone. Or, ask a passenger to make a call or send a text for you.

Currently, 48 states and D.C. ban text messaging for all drivers. State Farm continues to advocate for automobile and highway safety legislation at the state and federal level.

Still fighting the urge to pick up your phone while driving?

Apps like State Farm Drive Safe & Save can help improve your driving habits. To learn more about the new law and ways your can qualify for policy discounts, contact your local State Farm agent.

Experts addressed these topics at a May 8, Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA)/State Farm® meeting. They represented government, the auto and tech industries, law enforcement, safety, and insurance.

The leaders agreed to use a common language when talking about AV features. Also, focus on driver responsibilities and attitudes is key to preparing motorists to safely share roads with AVs. Moving forward the group will:

• Develop consistent public safety messages about all forms of vehicle automation.

• Maintain focus on current traffic safety challenges. These include impaired driving, speeding, failure to buckle up, distracted driving and sharing the road with pedestrians.

• Create uniform policies and training for responding to and investigating AV crashes. This will be key for police, first responders and court officials.

“While AVs will change our lives in many ways, they raise important highway safety issues,” said Ryan Gammelgard, Counsel at State Farm. “This report is a key piece to helping make sure we all work together to ensure the technology works as advertised.”

Instead, they typically occur in smaller, open boats on inland waters during daylight hours when weather and visibility are good, the winds are light and the water is calm.

Before you head out on the water this summer, check out these boating safety tips to help you enjoy smooth sailing.

• In California, earthquake coverage can be purchased through the California Earthquake Authority (CEA). State Farm is a participating member of the CEA.
• After a large earthquake event, new CEA policies purchased do not provide coverage for the next 360 hours, or 15 days, for earthquakes that are seismically considered to be part of the initial event.

Additional Information Resources:

• The Red Cross has an exceptional earthquake preparedness/recovery checklist.
• The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) offers seven steps for preparedness and safety; as stated in step four, being prepared can help minimize financial hardship after the shaking has stopped.
• ShakeMap on the USGS website.

Be safe:

• It is important to follow the instructions of local officials and seek out resources from local evacuation centers and aid stations.
• Always make safety the #1 priority when inspecting damage or making temporary repairs.
• Drink bottled water or boil tap until you hear that the water supply is safe.
• If it’s safe to go home, check for gas and turn off the main valve if you smell anything.
• If it is safe to enter your home, check for gas leaks and electrical problems.
• Make temporary repairs to protect your home from further damage and save all receipts. Coverage may be available for these expenses.

Earthquake insurance quick facts:

• EQ insurance is sold as a separate endorsement.
• The premium varies based on several factors including: age of home, building materials and proximity to known fault lines.
• Your auto insurance will typically provide coverage for damages caused by an earthquake, if Comprehensive Coverage is carried on the policy.

In the News:

• KGET-TV (Bakersfield, CA - 7/8/2019)  Earthquake insurance explained by local insurance agent

• KERO-TV (Bakersfield, CA - 7/52019)  Agent advised homeowners to consider getting additional coverage for earthquakes

For tips to help keep your cool and avoid incident, click on the "+" signs in the interactive image below.

Based on customer feedback, version 3.0 has new features that make it easier to own your driving experience and impact your auto insurance rate by using technology to improve your driving habits. You also get an instant discount of about 5 percent for enrolling in the program.

Drive Safe & Save features new, simpler processes and an improved customer experience, including immediate driving feedback.

To get started, a customer simply downloads the Drive Safe & Save app and affixes a Bluetooth beacon to the windshield behind the rearview mirror. No user interaction is required to record the trip as long as the driver’s smartphone is in the vehicle and the Bluetooth and location services are active.

Agent Tyler Garnett, Jonesboro, Ark., includes the Drive Safe & Save features in customer conversations.

“My team and I remind drivers the goal of Drive Safe & Save is not to just save money, but to also improve their driving habits,” he says. “We’re thinking about their safety.” 

For more information, visit statefarm.com.

Drive Safe & Save is not available in CA, MA, NY, RI

State Farm encourages customers to start the claim process as soon as they can and take steps to prevent further damage. Customers can start the claim process by contacting their agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, using the State Farm Mobile App, or reporting a claim through www.statefarm.com/claims.

State Farm is responding to storm-impacted areas. We will be here to help customers with their claims as we begin the recovery process. State Farm agents, agent’s staff, and local employees are available to help customers with their claims. Our Claims Catastrophe Response Team is being deployed to the most heavily impacted areas to begin assisting our customers.

As a reminder, insurance will only pay to remove trees that are impacting your home, building or other structures or fences. Coverage limits may apply to debris removal coverage. Tree removal can be very expensive right now because resources are spread thin.

Tips to help with storm recovery and insurance considerations:

• When safe to do so, make temporary repairs to damaged property.

  • For example, to prevent further damage patch holes or cover windows to prevent rain from entering the house

  • Depending on your coverage, these repairs may be reimbursed. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps and plywood or other supplies to make repairs.

• Document damage by taking photos.

• If you have experienced a power outage, never use candles for emergency lighting. Instead, use flashlights.

  • Disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out.

  • When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes.” This can damage computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.

  • Your homeowner policy may cover spoiled food and other damages as a result of power outages, subject to the deductible. Check with your insurance company to see if your policy covers damages resulting from outages.

• Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.

• Deal with a reputable contractor. While there are many good and reputable contractors in the state, be wary of those who might try to capitalize on the storm. State Farm claims specialists offer these tips to consider. Among the many preventative measures we recommend:

  • Shop around, get recommendations, inspect their work.

  • Get three written estimates and have a written detailed estimate.

  • Do not pay for work up front or sign a contract with any blank spaces. Always inspect the completed work before payment.

  • Beware of door-to-door unsolicited repairs.

  • If making roof repairs, consider upgraded roofing materials. These upgrades could result in insurance premium discounts.

  • State Farm customers also have access to a Contractor Locator. Available through their online StateFarm.com account, it provides a list of contractors known to State Farm. It is up to the consumer to pick the contractor. State Farm does not warranty or guarantee the work.

State Farm encourages customers to start the claim process as soon as they can and take steps to prevent further damage. Customers can start the claim process by contacting their agent, calling 1-800-SFCLAIM, using the State Farm Mobile App or reporting a claim through www.statefarm.com/claims

State Farm is responding to storm-impacted areas, and will be here to help customers with their claims as we begin the recovery process. State Farm agents, agent’s staff, and local employees are available to help customers with their claims, and our Claims Catastrophe Response Team is being deployed to the most heavily impacted areas to begin assisting our customers.

As a reminder, insurance will only pay to remove trees that are impacting your home, building or other structures or fences. Coverage limits may apply to debris removal coverage. Tree removal can be very expensive right now because resource are spread thin.

Tips to help with storm recovery and insurance considerations:

• Make temporary repairs to damaged property: When it is safe to do so, those who’ve experienced property damage should have reasonable temporary repairs made to prevent further damage (for example, patching holes or covering windows to prevent rain from entering the house). Depending on your coverage, these repairs may be reimbursed. Save receipts if you purchase items such as tarps and plywood or other supplies to make repairs.

• Document damage by taking photos.

• Working with contractors: While there are many good and reputable contractors in the state, be wary of those who might try to capitalize on the storm.
  • Ask for recommendations
  • Be aware of door-to-door solicited repairs
  • Get multiple written estimates
  • Always have a written, detailed estimate
  • Don’t pay up front. Always inspect the completed work before payment.
  • If making repairs, consider upgraded roofing materials (upgrades could result in insurance premium discounts).

• If you have experienced a power outage, never use candles for emergency lighting, use flashlights.
  • Disconnect any appliances, equipment or electronics that were on when the power went out.
  • When power comes back on, it may come back with momentary “surges” or “spikes” that can damage computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. Leave one light on so you know when the power returns.
  • Your homeowner policy may cover spoiled food and other damages as a result of power outages, subject to the deductible. Check with your insurance company to see if your policy covers damages resulting from outages.

• Use generators safely. If you have a portable generator, only run it outdoors with adequate ventilation. Never use a generator indoors or in attached garages. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly if inhaled.

As the nation’s largest homeowners’ insurer, State Farm is well aware of the severity and impact of arson on businesses and public safety. That is why State Farm funds the acquisition and training of accelerant detection canine teams. Commonly called arson dogs, more than 400 teams have been created since 1993. The teams conduct fire investigation in 45 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces and the District of Columbia. Outside of state or federal agencies, no other company in North America provides arson dog program funding.

An arson dog is one trained to detect and locate trace amounts of ignitable liquids. Things like gasoline, turpentine, and other flammable solvents are used to start fires. The use of arson dogs significantly aids law enforcement and fire investigation. Arson dogs save time and money by pinpointing sample collection locations.

Labrador retrievers are the arson dog breed of choice. Their curiosity, high energy, and tracking ability helps them quickly adapt to the training and socialization. Arson dogs are often “career change” or “second career” canines. They come from animal shelters, guide dog or disability programs and animal rescue organizations. Perhaps not suited for a companion or guide dog program, they did have needed skills for another job. In essence, these dogs have a second chance to serve their communities.

Being a dog's human handler is an enormous commitment. Even on days off or during vacations, they still have to train in order to feed their dog. Unlike a typical dog owner, these men and women can’t simply put down a bowl of food. Their canine partners are trained with food rewards. This means the handlers must run training drills multiple times daily to feed their dog and then document this training in detail.

For more information about the State Farm Arson Dog Program, visit www.arsondog.org.

Congratulations to the sixteen new K9 crime-fighting teams! Learn more about each of the teams below.

Captain Robby Simpson and K9 Sonny

Phoenix Fire Department (Phoenix, AZ)

Captain Robby Simpson is a fire investigator and medic with the Phoenix Fire Department. Captain Simpson spent 28 years on a fire truck before becoming a fire investigator and has always dreamed of working with an accelerant detection canine. This is his first canine partner and the fourth team trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program for the City of Phoenix. In fact, the first arson dog team for the Phoenix Fire Department was trained through the program 26 years ago in April 1993.

Investigator Jodie Grisdale and K9 Willow

Calgary Fire Department (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)

Fire Investigator Jodie Grisdale has been with the Calgary Fire Department for 12 years. She has been a fire investigator for two years. When she joined the Inspection and Investigations department, her dream was to work with an arson dog. In April 2019, her dream came true and she is now certified with K9 Willow. While this is her first canine partner, it is the third team trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program for the City of Calgary.

Inspector Joseph Cox and K9 Camy

St. Lucie County Fire District (Port St. Lucie, FL)

Inspector Joe Cox is a Fire Investigator/Inspector with the St. Lucie County Fire District in southern Florida. He has worked for the Lucie County Fire District for 22 years and spent the past four years investigating for the St. Lucie County Fire Marshal's Office. Prior to entering the Fire Marshal's Office, Cox was a Firefighter and Paramedic. This is his first canine partner and the first for the department.

Investigator Matt Huffman and K9 Shay-Ley

Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office (Jacksonville, FL)

Investigator Matt Huffman has been a Detective/ Fire Investigator with the State of Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations Division for a little over two years. He is currently assigned to the Jacksonville office but covers numerous counties in northeast Florida. Investigator Huffman retired from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in 2016 after 25 years of service. This may be his first canine partner, but he joins five other certified teams with the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office that are trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. Since 1998, 23 teams have been trained for the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Investigator Bobby Joe Brown and K9 Sasha

Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)

Arson Investigator Bobby Joe Brown is with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. He began his fire service career in 1991 as a volunteer firefighter before being hired full-time in 1995. He was promoted to Fire Captain/Paramedic and continued that role until 2004 before becoming Fire Chief of the Beardstown department. In 2008 he left the department to become a fire investigator. This is his first canine partner. Bobby Joe and K9 Sasha join seven certified teams actively investigating fires for the State of Illinois who were trained through the State Farm Arson Dog program. Since 1993, 22 teams have been trained for the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Special Agent Greg Vespa and K9 Ross 

Illinois State Fire Marshal (Springfield, IL)

Special Agent Greg Vespa is with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, covering the Greater Metro East area of Southern Illinois, more commonly known as the East St. Louis area.

Most of Greg’s career has been in Law Enforcement, with some volunteer fire service and full time paramedic service in there as well. He joined the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office in 2006 and during his time as a special agent, has worked three other accelerant canines. K9 Ross is his fourth partner. Greg and K9 Ross join seven certified teams actively investigating fires for the State of Illinois who were trained through the State Farm Arson Dog program. Since 1993, 22 teams have been trained for the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Search and Rescue Program Manager Lillian Hardy and K9 Misty

Indiana Department of Homeland Security (Indianapolis, IN)

Lillian Hardy has been involved in search and rescue since 1981. She started as a volunteer working with Civil Air Patrol in California and has served as a Los Angeles Chapter Disaster Assistance team member of American Red Cross; director and founding member of Illinois Search and Rescue, member of Midwest Search dogs in Indiana and has served as a regional representative for the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) and has worked as an EMT/Paramedic. Since 1993, Lillian has been a certified master canine trainer through National K9 training center and since June 2004, Lillian has been the Search and Rescue Program Manager for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. This is her first accelerant detection canine partner and she will have the entire state of Indiana as her territory.

Operator Ryan Percle and K9 Dakota 

New Orleans Fire Department (New Orleans, LA)

Operator Ryan Percle is a fire truck engineer with the New Orleans Fire Department and has been with the department for 21 years. While this is his first arson canine partner, his dog is a veteran. Ryan and his family took in K9 Dakota after her previous handler was unable to continue the program several years ago. K9 Dakota was trained through the State Farm Arson Dog program in 2015 and then again in 2019.

Captain Justin Shea and K9 Linus

Prince George’s County Fire/EMS (Lanham, MD)

Captain Justin Shea is with the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department and has been a member of the department for 14 years. He spent the first seven years of his career riding a fire truck and ambulance before joining the Fire Marshal’s Office, where he has investigated fires for the past seven years. This is his first canine partner and they will investigate fires east of Washington, DC.

Lieutenant Craig Matthews and K9 Sowell 

Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (Marriottsville, MD)

Lt. Craig Matthews has been with Howard County Fire and Rescue for 18 years. This is his first canine partner and the fourth team for Howard County trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. Lt. Matthews and K9 Sowell are replacing the current canine team in Howard County, Lt. Carlton Saunders and K9 Jet., who will retire at the end of 2019. Their investigation territory includes Columbia and Baltimore City in Maryland.

Investigator Solomon Rosman and K9 Reeves

New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office (Concord, NH)

Investigator Sol Rosman is with the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office and has a lengthy career as an EMT, paramedic, police officer, firefighter, and fire investigator. Rosman began his career as a first responder while at college when he became an EMT. He spent several years as an EMT before moving to New Hampshire and becoming a paramedic. He also became a part-time police officer and worked for a few small towns before attending the police academy. Prior to joining the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office three and a half years ago, Rosman was a firefighter and paramedic for eight years. This is his first canine partner and the 9th canine team for NH SFMO. In fact, the NH SFMO has been in the program since the very first training class in February 1993.

Detective Michael Burns and K9 Dodger 

City of Pittsburgh Police Department (Pittsburgh, PA)

Detective Mike Burns has been an officer with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police since 1993. He was assigned to the Fire Investigation Unit in 2000 and has been with the department Bomb Squad for the last 12 years. This is his first canine partner and they will be investigating fire scenes in and around the city of Pittsburgh.

Arson Investigator Peter Sword and K9 Wizard 

Providence Fire Department (Providence, RI)

Arson Investigator Peter Sword is with the City of Providence Fire Department in Rhode Island. He has been a member of the department for 27 years, spending most of that time on engine companies with a two year stint on rescue in between. He transferred to the fire investigation unit five years ago before being promoted to Arson Investigator. This will be his first canine partner and he will replace the retired team of Sean Reddy and K9 Tyler, also trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program.

Lieutenant John Perry and K9 Sam 

Burton Fire District (Beaufort, SC)

Lt. John Perry is a fifth-generation firefighter who has worked as both a volunteer and career firefighter in his 30-year career. He is currently assigned as a Lieutenant on the busiest engine company in the Burton Fire District. Lt. Perry has spent the last 15 as a fire investigator and the past four years as a handler for Arson K9 Abby, who retired in April 2019. K9 Sam will replace K9 Abby investigating fires in the Bluffton, Beaufort, and Hilton Head areas in South Carolina.

Investigator Ashley Bowen and K9 Liberty 

South Padre Island Fire Department (South Padre Island, TX)

Investigator Ashley Bowen has been in the fire service for seven years, and with the South Padre Island Fire Department for four years. She has been a fire investigator for a little over a year now and was recently promoted to fire inspector. This is her first canine partner and the first for the department. Ashley and Liberty have a very large territory of more than 15 counties in southern Texas, extending from Brownsville to Corpus Christi.

Assistant Fire Marshal Chris Persons and K9 Pyper 

Hampton Fire Marshal’s Office (Hampton, VA)

Assistant Fire Marshal Chris Persons is with the Hampton Division of Fire and Rescue located in Virginia. He began his career in the fire service as a volunteer prior to becoming a career firefighter. He has been a firefighter for the past six years and this is his first canine partner. Chris and K9 Pyper have big shoes to fill. They are replacing Jesse Gomes and K9 Taylor, who have been investigating fires in the Hampton/Newport News area in Virginia since completing their training in the State Farm Arson Dog Program in 2008. This is also the 4^th team trained for the Hampton Fire Department through the program. The first team was trained in 1998.

State Farm is a member of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week® (April 7-13, 2019) Coalition. The insurer joins the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), and American Humane to draw attention to dog bites and ways to reduce injuries to people and pets. State Farm is also one of the few insurance companies in the country that does not have a breed restriction list and does not exclude homeowner or renter insurance coverage because of the breed of dog owned. Under the right circumstances any dog might bite.

Information from the National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition

• American Veterinary Medical Association estimates there are approximately 78 million dogs in U.S. homes and each year 4.5 million people are bitten or injured by dogs. “Even the gentlest dog can bite if they are in pain, feel threatened, or are competing for resources such as food or space,” said Dr. John de Jong, AVMA President. “Not only is it important to understand how dogs behave, it is important to understand how a dog may interpret our behavior.” AVMA’s ‘Jimmy the Dog’ video series lets preschoolers look at how a dog might interpret different scenarios.
• Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) reports that dog bites and other dog-related injuries accounted for nearly one third of all homeowners liability claim dollars paid out in 2018, costing $675 million. An analysis of homeowners insurance data by the I.I.I. found that the number of dog bite claims nationwide decreased to 17,297 in 2018, compared to 18,522 in 2017– a 6.6 percent decrease. The average cost per claim increased by 5.3 percent. The average cost paid out for dog bite claims was $39,017. in 2018, compared with $37,051 in 2017.
• American Humane says that dog bites are a double tragedy affecting both people and animals. “A dog bite can have a devastating effect not only on the victim, but on the dog, who may be euthanized,” says Robin Ganzert, PhD, president and CEO of American Humane. Because of the high risk involving dogs, babies, and children, American Humane offers a free online booklet called Pet Meets Baby that provides families with valuable information on introducing a new child to a home with a dog.

Professional perspective from Dr. Marty Becker and Victoria Stilwell

State Farm believes that educating dog owners about being responsible will help reduce dog-related injuries. The insurance company focuses on educating people and pet professionals about dog body language and safely interacting with dogs by working with two of the most prominent experts in the field of dog training and veterinary medicine; celebrity dog trainer Victoria Stilwell and America’s Veterinarian, Dr. Marty Becker.

“Dogs don’t just bite ‘out of the blue’. Most bites are a perfect storm of situation and circumstance, but because dogs’ physical and vocal language is frequently misinterpreted or signals are missed, people often put themselves or others at risk and dogs are blamed as a result,” says Stilwell. “Education is the only way to reduce dog bite incidents in this country, which is why I am proud to stand alongside State Farm and other members of the coalition, to raise awareness about this issue and to educate people about dog bite prevention.”

“As a society we increasingly consider dogs to be family members and rely on them for unconditional love,” says Dr. Becker. “A clearer understanding of canine behavior and how our own actions can make us safer is essential if we want to continue to benefit from the presence of dogs in our daily lives.”

Tips on being a responsible dog owner

• NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog, even if it is a family pet. Children are often bitten by dogs in their own household.
• Make sure your pet is socialized so it feels at ease around people and other animals.
• Walk and exercise your dog on a leash to keep it healthy and provide mental stimulation.
• Regular veterinary visits are essential to regulating the health of your dog. A sick or injured dog is more likely to bite.
• Be alert. If someone approaches you and your dog, caution them to wait before petting the dog. Give your pet time to be comfortable with the stranger.
• Understand and respond to changes in your dogs’ body language. Look at the eyes, ears, tail, and posture to know when your dog may be happy, fearful, or angry.

“Veterinarians, pet professionals, and pet owners alike want animals to have happy, healthy, full lives,” says Fear Free founder and CEO Dr. Marty Becker. “The problem is that humans and animals don’t speak the same language. When an animal is scared or in pain, we can’t explain that we’re helping them, so we have to show this through gentleness and species-appropriate actions.”

Since 2016, Fear Free has provided online and in-person education to more than 40,000 veterinary professionals, pet professionals, and pet owners. Fear Free programs provide pet owners and professionals with the knowledge and tools to look after a pet’s physical and emotional well-being.

“Understanding your pets’ emotions can improve their health and happiness and reduce the risk of injury to them and to people,” says State Farm assistant vice president Joe Strupek. “If State Farm can help responsible pet owners and pet professionals with resources to improve the quality of life for pets, we also improve the quality of life for pet owners. Then we truly are helping life go right for every family member – two-legged and four.”

Veterinary or pet professionals can learn more about becoming Fear Free Certified® by visiting fearfreepets.com. Pet owners can visit fearfreehappyhomes.com to access courses, articles, and videos to learn how to improve the physical and emotional health of their pets at home. Fear Free Happy Homes members also get access to monthly deals and a directory of Fear Free Certified Professionals.

State Farm and Animals

State Farm is one of the few insurance companies that doesn’t have a breed restriction list and doesn’t exclude insurance coverage because of the breed of dog owned. State Farm is involved in other programs to help four-legged family members and the people who care about them.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week – National Dog Bite Prevention Week is April 7-13, 2019. To draw attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership and educate people about interacting with dogs, State Farm and members of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition come together each year to share tips on reducing dog-related injuries.

Kindness is Powerful - Celebrity dog trainer Victoria Stilwell teaches children the value of kindness to people and animals. Sponsored by State Farm, the program also educates kids about how to interact with dogs.

State Farm Arson Dog Program – Since 1993, State Farm has been providing funding for the acquisition and training of more than 400 arson dog teams across North America. The program helps law enforcement locate evidence of arson at fire scenes.

Neighborhood of Good - Neighborhood of Good connects people with their passion, such as animals, through volunteerism. Together, we can turn caring into doing.

Animal Care and Veterinary Insurance – State Farm’s Animal Care Services Policy provides property and liability business coverage for veterinarians, groomers, trainers, kennels or pet stores.

Preparedness Day serves as an opportunity for residents to participate in wildfire safety activities. Thanks to the generous support from State Farm, 150 communities across 27 states will receive project funding awards of $500 each to support activities on Preparedness Day aimed at reducing potential loss of life, property, and natural resources to wildfire.

"Since NFPA and State Farm first partnered together on Preparedness Day, the number of projects has grown tremendously. We are pleased to provide 150 communities with a grant to fund their wildfire risk reduction activities on May 4," said Vickie Hodges, P&C underwriting analyst, State Farm. "For State Farm, the largest home insurer in the U.S., it is important to us to take a leadership role in helping homeowners stay safe and better protect their property."

Recent wildfire events make the need for Preparedness Day more important than ever before. Last year, California wildfires burned nearly one million acres, the largest amount of burned acreage recorded in a fire season. Several other states that experienced large fires in 2018 including Nevada, Utah, and Oklahoma, are putting the U.S. on pace to exceed the average acreage burned annually over the past 10 years.

"NFPA and State Farm are pleased to be working together on the Preparedness Day campaign," said Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. "Since our initial launch of Prep Day in 2013, participation has continued to grow. We are inspired by the number of residents who feel empowered to take the necessary steps to keep their homes and neighborhoods safer from wildfire."

There is still time to take action and NFPA and State Farm encourage people to get involved by planning a project and participating on May 4. Download a free Getting Started: Wildfire Community Preparedness Day Toolkit.

For more information about national Wildfire Community Preparedness Day including resources, videos, and tip sheets, and to see the list of winning projects and their locations, visit www.wildfireprepday.org.

For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research and resources, please visit the NFPA press room.

Resources:

• www.nfpa.org.
• Wildfire Education
• Firewise
• Creating a Home Inventory
• Protect Your Home from Wildfire
• State Farm Wildfire Mitigation
• What to Do After a House Fire

In 2018, State Farm paid more than $2.7 billion for more than 280,000 auto and homeowners insurance hail damage claims.

Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to keep you and your family safe during a hailstorm.

In an Automobile

• Stop driving. If you see a safe place close-by (like inside a garage, under a highway overpass or under a service station awning), drive to it as soon as you can. Make sure you pull completely off the highway.
• Do NOT leave the vehicle until it stops hailing.
• Stay away from car windows. Cover your eyes with something, like a piece of clothing. If possible, get onto the floor facedown or lie down on the seat with your back to the windows.
• Put very small children under you and cover their eyes.

In a Building

• Stay inside until the hail stops.
• Stay away from windows.
• Account for all family members, building occupants, pets, etc.
• Do not go outside for any reason.
• To avoid the danger of electrocution from lightning, avoid using phones and electrical appliances during a severe storm.

Outside

• Seek shelter immediately. If you can’t find something to protect your entire body, find something to protect your head.
• Stay out of culverts and lowland areas that may suddenly fill with water.
• Seeking shelter under trees should be a last resort. It is common during severe storms for trees to lose branches.

The shareable, interactive image below shows more hail facts when you hover over the "+" signs.