Category: Safety

Stay safe with expert tips on a wide range of topics, from home safety to disaster preparedness.

Friday the 13th – 13 Hidden Safety Risks

Many people are afraid of or superstitious of black cats, broken mirrors and walking under ladders around Friday the 13th. However, what’s even more cause for caution is all the hidden safety risks that can be present in daily life. Check out these top 13 risks to be aware of: 

Eating while driving

Next to texting and driving, eating while driving is one of the most common forms of distracted driving. Reaction time drops by nearly 50% while eating. Next time you pick up food, make sure to wait until arrival before eating. 

Car maintenance

Without proper vehicle maintenance, driving a car can pose some risks. Change the oil in the vehicle as recommended, get tires checked regularly and make sure to have roadside assistance as part of your insurance policy. 

Lightning

While not extremely common, lightning can strike your car or home and cause damage that may require repairs. Make sure your insurance plan covers damage caused by lightning and help prevent damage by installing a lightning rod or other protection.

Cyber security

As the internet increasingly becomes part of the daily routine, cyber security is a necessity. Take steps to protect your information online from hackers or data breaches, including using complex passwords and being aware of email phishing scams. 

Texting

Texting while doing other things is a huge distraction. Whether walking across the street or driving down the road, avoid texting and pay better attention to surroundings. 

Home security

Make sure to lock all doors and windows when leaving and consider installing an alarm system. If you’re an OKFB member, you may be eligible for a discount for installing a home security system. 

Fire

It’s nice to have the fireplace crackling or a candle burning to provide warmth and comfort, but make sure to take the proper safety precautions. Always extinguish candles and fires before leaving a room, and make sure to keep them out of reach of children.  

Food storage

Improper food storage can result in spoiled foods, and if these foods are consumed they can result in illness. Hold cold foods at 40°F or below, and keep hot foods at 140°F or above. Regularly monitor your refrigerator and freezer to ensure they are at the right temperature. 

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless flammable gas that can be deadly. CO can accumulate wherever fuel is burned, whether by a kitchen stove or a car in the garage. Help avoid CO poisoning by installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home. 

Appliances

Appliances, especially those in the kitchen can pose some safety risks. Stay nearby appliances when cooking and always check that appliances are off before leaving the kitchen.  

Screens

Staring at a screen all day, whether via a phone or a computer, can pose some health risks. Excessive use can result in a decrease in vision abilities, and it can also lead to back pain, joint pain and headaches. If possible, try reducing daily screen time.

Going to work

From farming to construction, some jobs require working with dangerous equipment or substances. Make sure to be aware of and follow workplace safety guidelines to help prevent accident and injury.

Showering

Slippery floors in the shower can lead to injury or even death. Showers can especially be safety risks for the elderly and children, who often require help to enter and exit the shower safely. Install a support bar, clean up wet floors and be extra vigilant in the bathroom.

8 Home Tips You Need to Know this Fall

As the temperatures drop, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for the cooler weather seasons. With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure your living space remains warm, comfortable and energy-efficient during the colder months. From sealing windows and doors to inspecting your roof, here are some essential home tips to get ready for fall:

1. Seal Windows and Doors

One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep the cold air out and the warm air in is by ensuring that your windows and doors are properly sealed. Check for any gaps or cracks around the frames and apply weatherstripping or caulk as needed. This simple step can significantly reduce drafts and prevent heat loss, saving you money on your energy bills!

2. Inspect Fireplace and Chimney

If you’re planning to use your fireplace later this year, it’s crucial to inspect both the fireplace and chimney before lighting that first fire. Look for any signs of damage or blockages that could pose a safety hazard. Hiring a professional to clean and inspect your chimney may also be a wise investment to ensure you’re heating up safely.

3. Ensure Proper Insulation

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy consumption. Check your attic, walls, and floors for sufficient insulation. Adding insulation in areas that are lacking can make a significant difference in keeping your home warm and cozy ahead of cooler weather.

4. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Did you know that your ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling? When the weather gets cooler, flip the switch on your ceiling fans to reverse their spin and run them at the lowest speed. This will help push warm air down from the ceiling and circulate it throughout the room, improving overall comfort.

5. Clear the Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to water accumulation and ice dams, potentially causing damage to your home. Take the time to clear out leaves, debris, and any blockages from your gutters to ensure proper drainage during the rainy months.

6. Inspect Your Roof

A well-maintained roof is essential for keeping the cooler elements out of your home. Inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or signs of wear and tear. Addressing any issues before the snow starts falling can prevent more significant problems down the line.

7. Replace Air Filters

Clean air filters not only improve indoor air quality but also help your heating system operate efficiently. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and force your system to work harder, consuming more energy. Remember to replace or clean your air filters regularly to ensure optimal performance!

8. Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

Lowering the temperature of your water heater can help you save on energy costs without sacrificing comfort. Aim for a temperature of around 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent excessive heat loss and reduce the risk of scalding.

As you gear up for fall, these home tips can make a world of difference in creating a warm, comfortable home. By preparing with these home tips, you’ll be ready to embrace the cold weather before it arrives.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re a longtime policyholder or just starting to look for insurance options, we’re here to help. If you have questions or concerns that you want to discuss, connect with your local OKFB agent today. If you have any insurance-specific questions, we would love to help you find the coverage that best meets your home, auto, commercial and life insurance needs.

Don’t forget to follow us on social! This kind of information and more is just a click away. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

5 Reasons Why You Should Trust OKFB Insurance With Your Coverage Needs

Searching for insurance coverage but not sure where to turn? With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which provider to trust with your coverage needs. That’s where OKFB Insurance steps in. Here are 5 reasons why you should trust OKFB with your insurance needs:

1. Our commitment to service

We stake our reputation on providing excellent service to policyholders statewide. As an Oklahoma-based company that serves its neighbors and community members, we take pride in offering dependable products and dedicated customer service. This means you can count on us to be there for you when you need us most and to work hard to ensure your satisfaction with our services.

2. We know Oklahomans best

With offices in all 77 Oklahoma counties, an OKFB agent is always close by and ready to provide customizable and dependable insurance service to you. When you work with OKFB, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that you’re working with a local provider who is familiar with the unique needs and challenges of your area.

3. We’re in your communities

We take pride in serving the communities where you work and live. We’re committed to giving back to these communities and are proud of the many OKFB agents who serve on community school boards, as well as participate in organizations like the United Way and the Wounded Warrior Project. This commitment to community means that when you work with OKFB, you’re also supporting a company that is invested in the well-being of your community.

4. Our customizable coverage fits your personal needs

We understand that everyone’s insurance needs are unique. That’s why we offer customizable coverage options that allow you to tailor your policy to your specific needs. Whether you need auto insurance, homeowners insurance or coverage for your farm or ranch, OKFB has you covered.

5. Our trusted reputation

OKFB Insurance has earned a trusted reputation among policyholders throughout Oklahoma. With a history of providing dependable insurance products and excellent customer service, you can trust OKFB to be there for you when you need them most. When you choose OKFB, you’re choosing a provider that has earned the trust and respect of its customers. Don’t just take our word for it, though. Hear from some of our policyholders, too!

With a commitment to excellent service, a local presence, community involvement, customizable coverage options and a trusted reputation, OKFB has everything you need to feel confident in your insurance coverage. Contact an OKFB agent today to learn more about how we can help you meet your insurance needs.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re a long-time policyholder or just starting to look for insurance options, we have team members who can help. If you have questions or concerns that you want to discuss, connect with your local OKFB agent today. If you have any insurance-specific questions, we would love to help you find the coverage that best meets your home, auto, commercial and life insurance needs.

Don’t forget to follow us on social! This kind of information and more is just a click away. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

5 Tips to Prepare Your Home While You’re Away

Going on a trip can be an exciting and fun experience. However, before you hit the road or board a plane, it’s important to make sure your home is ready for your departure. By taking a few simple steps before you head out the door, you can ensure that your home is secure while you’re away. Here are five home security tips to help you prepare your home before leaving for your trip!

Turn Off the Lights

Before you leave, be sure to turn off all lights in your home. This not only helps conserve energy but also gives the impression that someone is still home. Leaving lights on for extended periods can attract unwanted attention, which can put your home at risk of burglary.

Unplug Appliances and Electronics

Unplugging appliances and electronics before leaving on a trip can help prevent fires while you’re away. Make sure to unplug any non-essential devices, like lamps, unused chargers and slow cookers. Also, consider unplugging appliances such as your toaster, coffee maker and microwave. This will help reduce the risk of electrical fires while you’re enjoying your trip.

Set the Thermostat Accordingly

It’s important to set your thermostat accordingly before leaving on a trip. If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, you may want to turn off your HVAC system entirely. However, if you’re only going to be gone for a few days, you can set your thermostat to a lower temperature to save energy.

Remove the Spare Key

If you have a spare key hidden under a rock or a garden gnome, it’s time to find a new hiding spot. Burglars are pretty good at finding hidden keys, so make sure you remove any potential risks. If you need to leave a spare key for someone to keep your plants alive or in case of emergencies, consider giving it directly to a trusted neighbor or family member.

Have the Post Office Hold Your Mail

It’s a good idea to have the post office hold your mail if you’re planning to be away from home for more than a few days. After all, a pile of mail overflowing from your mailbox is a dead giveaway that you’re not home. You probably also don’t want to come home to a mailbox full of bills and junk mail. An easy way to cut the clutter? Go paperless with OKFB! Ask your OKFB agent for more details.

Prepping your home before leaving on a trip is essential for maintaining the security and comfort of your home while you’re away. By following these home security tips, you can ensure that your home is safe, secure and ready for your return.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re a long-time policyholder or just starting to look for insurance options, we have team members who can help. If you have questions or concerns that you want to discuss, connect with your local OKFB agent today. If you have any insurance-specific questions, we would love to help you find the coverage that best meets your home, auto, commercial and life insurance needs.

Don’t forget to follow us on social! This kind of information and more is just a click away. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.