In our lifetime, we accumulate a large amount of things, ranging from small, mundane items to sentimental and expensive assets. Although we may have a house or apartment full of items, it would be a struggle to create a detailed list of our possessions from memory, much less the current value of these items. When disasters like a house fire or apartment theft occur, policyholders need to provide accurate details regarding their missing or damaged items. This process is especially painful when dealing with the shock and emotional rollercoaster of a burglary or fire.

Thanks to the Internet, many records and legal documents are now available to search and review online, whether they are marriage records, birth records, divorce records, and even property records. Although it can be convenient to have access to this information at any time, in reality the online publication of this sensitive information jeopardizes an individual's security and privacy. It is critical for people to take proactive steps to minimize or better control the kind of public information that's available online, for the privacy and safety of family members and property.

Social media can be a fun and engaging way to connect with family and friends through quick and simple updates. While you might think social media posts and pictures are harmless and innocent, others might see them as opportunities for theft, vandalism and other criminal activity. Social media posts can easily put people and property at risk, so it's important to understand how criminals can use our social media posts against us, and safer ways to communicate through social media.

Homeowners, renters and business owners can prepare for disasters or catastrophic events in a wide variety of ways. Preparations might include buying fire extinguishers for a home, trimming trees to reduce property damage during severe weather, or installing security cameras in a business to deter thieves. One of the most destructive and unexpected disasters that can impact a homeowner, renter or business owner is a lightning strike.

Houstonians are enjoying a milder summer than usual, meaning more families are spending time outdoors and enjoying fun activities such as swimming, bike riding, and grilling out. Although these summer activities offer great fun, it's important to use safety to ensure the protection of family members and property. Here are some basic safety tips for Houston families to stay safe this summer.

In our series on buying a new home, we've previously looked at the importance of Financial Preparation as well as determining Home Needs. In our final installment, we will focus on Improving Home Safety after you buy your new home. Buying a new home brings individuals and families a strong sense of excitement and peace at finally finding the right home for their needs.

The housing market in Houston continues to outperform home sales from nearly every other region in the U.S.  Because Houston offers so many spacious homes at affordable prices, people are eager to move out of rental properties and own their own home. However, there are many important steps potential homeowners should consider before buying a home. This is our second blog post in a three-part series focused on the important steps to take before buying your first house.

In our previous blog post, we looked at how to protect our family and property by making smarter everyday choices, such as using more caution while cooking, or being careful to not leave lit cigarettes near flammable materials. In today's blog post, we'll look at property fire hazards that can cause personal injury and major damage to homes, apartments or other nearby property.

From a young age we're taught the many dangers of fires, and how to protect ourselves if we're ever near a fire. Unfortunately, as adults we can sometimes forget to use caution around fire, or we may be unaware of hidden fire dangers in our homes or apartments. To help protect your family, home and possessions, we're going to look at personal fire hazards and property fire hazards so you and your loved ones can stay safe.

If you watch the local or national news for even just 5 minutes, you're bombarded with images of disasters or tragic events here in Houston, across the U.S. or overseas. In our turbulent world disasters can strike at any time, from home burglaries, mudslides, apartment fires, plane crashes, car accidents and more. We can't always avoid the dangers that exist in this world, but we can do our part to minimize their impact in our lives, and in the lives of our loved ones.