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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

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

Managing Credit Card Debt

Credit cards can be incredibly helpful, particularly when you need to make a large purchase. However, if you don’t keep up with your payments, credit card debt can compound and create a serious source of stress.To get the most out of your credit cards without piling up debt, consider doing the following:Treat your credit cards like cash. Avoid spending money you can’t pay back in a timely fashion.Pay the entire balance of your credit card each month.Select cards with no annual… READ MORE

What to consider when buying Earthquake Insurance

If you are considering purchasing earthquake insurance, the experts at Chalmers Insurance Group would be happy to advise you. CONTACT US TODAY: Tel: 800-360-3000What Protection Does it Offer?Many people do not realize this, but most homeowner’s policies do not include earthquake coverage. You will need to purchase either supplemental coverage under your current homeowner’s policy or a separate earthquake insurance policy. Automobile insurance policies generally cover vehicles for… READ MORE

Are You Prepared for a Home Break-in?

While it may be difficult to imagine it happening to you, home break-ins are a common occurrence. If an intruder enters your home, your property and the well-being of your loved ones are at risk.In order to protect your home and family from an intruder, consider doing the following:Put an emergency plan in place and discuss it with everyone in your household.Take any measure possible to let the intruder know someone is home and aware of his or her presence.Do not assume the intruder is… READ MORE

Tips For Exercising Without Injury

Tips for Exercising Without InjuryWhile exercising can improve your mood, fight chronic diseases and help you manage your weight, it can put a strain on your body if you don’t take the proper precautions. To get the most from your workouts and decrease your risk of injury, you should take the time to warm up, cool down and stretch.Warming Up TipsMove similar to how you will in your workout by walking briskly, jogging or biking at a slow pace.Increase the intensity gradually to reduce… READ MORE

Declutter for a Safe Work-space

A cluttered, unorganized work-space isn’t just unsightly—it is also dangerous. Poor workplace housekeeping, such as failing to clean up after yourself, can contribute to the following:Injuries caused by slips and falls when clutter is on the floorPotential fire hazardsExposure to hazardous dust and vaporsErgonomics issues that arise when clutter takes over your workspace, leaving you little room to workNo matter what type of environment you work in, it is important to keep… READ MORE