Month: May 2016

Bringing Your Boat Out Of Winter Storage

Posted on by AgentInsure

It’s been pretty cold, and your boat has been in winter storage for months. With spring here, the temptation to just pull it out and take off the cover is strong.

Unfortunately, there’s more to bringing your boat out of winter storage than that. There are a few things you need to do before taking to the water.

First of all, check the electrics. Make sure any batteries are charged fully. Clean and tighten all of your electrical connections and protect your battery terminals with grease or spray. Make sure that electrical systems start up. Bear in mind that rechargeable batteries are most likely to fail after a period of non-use. Check internal lights, running lights, GPS systems and, of course, the bilge pump if you have one.

Then, check the engine. You should check oil and coolant levels, power steering fluid and transmission oil. Look for fluid leaks in the bilge area, and inspect all fuel lines. Check fuel and air filters.  If you are a sail type, inspect all swage fittings, rigging, and run a rag over stays and shrouds – this will help you find fishhooks which indicate wire wear. Run a hose over chain plates to check for leaks, recaulk if necessary.

Water systems should be checked. If you put antifreeze in the fresh water tank, make sure you flush it out completely before connecting the pump, or toxic antifreeze may end up in your drinking water. Make sure the raw-water intake strainer is clean, fits correctly, and undamaged.

Finally, be sure to check all of your safety gear including flares, fire extinguishers, life jackets, etc. And, of course, make sure your marine insurance is up to date and sufficient for your needs. Contact Integra Insurance Services for a quote today.

 

5 Ways Commercial Insurance Can Keep Your Business Alive

Posted on by AgentInsure

Your business should be able to handle whatever may come its way, but unfortunately many owners don’t realize that they may be going the repair process alone if certain events occur. Depending on your plan, you may face more difficulty than you could have potentially imagined if you haven’t purchased the right policy. Here are 5 ways commercial insurance can keep your business alive.

1. Setting You Up

Along with the major scenarios, buying comprehensive coverage sets you up for success. You won’t have to check the weather in fear every morning if you aren’t covered for specific phenomena.

2. Serving Your Customers

Your customers will certainly understand if your business befalls an unfortunate event outside your control, but they may not understand if you have to be out for months due to it. Commercial insurance gives you the means to put everything right quickly.

3. Focusing You on What’s Important

Commercial insurance means you keep track of your equipment and inventory, and can ensure you don’t make an investment that ends up going to waste.

4. Saving You Money At the Right Time

If you do need to make a claim, that’s the worst time to see your money start to fly out the door. It’s not just financially hard, but emotionally hard to bear that burden. Having a partner to call means you’ll have more motivation to do what needs to be done to get your business running again.

5. Giving You Piece of Mind

Being prepared gives you confidence, which is definitely needed to keep a business alive. Integra Insurance Services serves Huntington, TX, so you can get the policy that best meets your needs. Give us a call today for more information or for a quote.