Blog

Healthy Living Tip: Avoid Foods Containing Trans Fat

Did You Know?Trans fat, the worst type of fat for your body, is vegetable fat that has been chemically altered by way of hydrogenation. This process turns healthy fat, such as corn or soy bean oil, into solid, unhealthy fat. The effects of consuming food containing trans fat is linked with increased LDL (“bad cholesterol”) levels, decreased HDL (“good cholesterol”) levels and increased triglyceride levels.To limit trans fat intake, opt for reduced-fat or fat-free… READ MORE

What to do if your car is stolen

If you suspect your vehicle has been stolen, do the following:Call the police. The sooner you notify the proper authorities, the more likely you are to recover your vehicle. You will want to share everything about your car that you can, including its make, model, licence plate number and VIN number.Report the stolen car to your insurer. Once you’ve completed a police report, you should contact your car insurance company. You can often file a report using your insurer’s claims… READ MORE

Insurance Immersion: Our Day at Patrons Oxford Insurance!

On Wednesday, June 7th Sarah and I made our first company visit to Patrons Oxford Insurance! We were both looking forward to this visit because it was the first one of our internship, and we really had no idea what to expect. When we arrived in the morning, we met with Rachel Bannister, Assistant Vice President and Nina Barron, Executive Assistant, who started our day with a grand tour of Patrons beautiful new building. Rachel and Nina told us about how they had made the move to their new… READ MORE

Insurance Immersion: Our First Day on the Road!

On Thursday, May 31st Kelton and I had our first day out of the office. We started our day at Bonny Eagle High School with Lexi Richardson (Group Specialist) presenting to Jen Mayberry’s “Home Economics” class about insurance. Ms. Mayberry’s class was a mixture of all grade levels. The presentation we shared teaches the basics of Homeowners/Renters and Auto Insurance and why is it important for them to understand how it works.This presentation was not only a learning… READ MORE

Red Flags When Buying Used Cars

While buying a used vehicle will save you money and help you avoid depreciation costs, it is important to do your research before you purchase one. To avoid purchasing a car with hidden problems, look out for the following warning signs:Excessive wear and tear in the interior.Damp, musty odors. These are indications of leaks in the windshield, weather stripping or heater core.Cars that ride lower in the front as compared to the back. This indicates worn springs, which can be an expensive… READ MORE

Insurance Immersion: Meet our summer interns, Kelton and Sarah!

Hi! My name is Kelton Loper! I am one of the new Chalmers Insurance Immersion Interns. I am 20 years old and my hometown is Norway, Maine where I have lived my entire life. I graduated from Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School in 2016 and I now attend the University of Maine in Orono, where I am a rising junior. I am looking forward to spending the summer as a part of the Chalmers team!While I am at school I keep myself busy with a variety of extra-curricular activities. I play intramural… READ MORE

Responding to a Flood

Floods can happen without warning, jeopardizing your home and valuables. While it’s impossible to prevent floods, there are a number of steps you should take when a flood watch or warning is issued:Check your sump pump. Test the pump by pouring water into the pit. Make sure the discharge hose sends the water several feet away from the house and slopes away from the property.Move valuables to higher locations. If you have time, move important items like photo albums, insurance policies,… READ MORE

Staged Accident Fraud

Staged accidents are a common type of insurance fraud. Often, dishonest drivers will manoeuvre innocent motorists into auto crashes. While your car may only suffer minor damages, fraudsters can make large claims for fake injuries or charge your auto insurance company for damage.The following are some tips on how to avoid becoming the victim of a staged auto accident:Call the police immediately if you’re in an accident.Report accident claims immediately. Don’t settle on-site with… READ MORE

Tips for Renting Out Your Home

With the rise of services like Airbnb, you may be considering renting out your home for extra income while you’re away for an extended period of time. Though this seems like an ideal solution for families with extra room to spare, it can create issues for those who don’t properly prepare.To get the most out of renting out your home, keep in mind the following:Review the terms of your insurance policy closely and talk with your insurance broker about renting out your home.Draw up… READ MORE

Staying Safe on Your ATV at Work

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) can make doing everyday tasks easier, especially when riding on uneven surfaces and off-road paths, and carrying loads and supplies. Although ATVs are convenient, they also add to on-the-job hazards.Ride SafeTo remain safe while operating an ATV, practice the following safety tips:Attend ATV instruction courses to learn how to operate the vehicle.Read the manual carefully before attempting to ride, and ensure that you understand how to remain safe.Never allow… READ MORE