This past year has seen a large number of changes in our global and local economies, but few have been more surprising than the explosion of the housing market. The number of available homes currently on the real estate market has plummeted to record lows as people are snatching up new construction homes, preexisting homes, and fixer-uppers in record numbers across Texas. However, a purchase as important as a new home requires significant research and time to evaluate risk factors.

Companies of all industries rely on equipment, tools, or vehicles in order to run their daily operations. Whether it's a company computer, industrial kitchen mixer, or delivery truck, workers must know how to operate special machinery or equipment in order to complete their tasks, but always with safety in mind. The focus of today's Aegis blog post is understanding the importance of thorough training for employees on how to safely operate and handle special machinery, equipment, tools, or company vehicles, and how that safety training ultimately benefits businesses.

Residents in Texas are used to dealing with common weather events in their region. For those close to the Gulf Coast, hurricanes and flooding are big concerns, while in north Texas, snow and tornadoes are a greater concern. However, in recent years Texans have begun to experience a wider variety and intensity of severe weather storms and disasters, making the entire state more vulnerable to damages and losses.

Winter Storm Uri has brought unprecedented cold temperatures, icy precipitation, and dangerous conditions to the entire state of Texas, resulting in widespread utility outages and property damage. While struggling to keep warm and meet basic needs, property owners also face challenges on how to minimize or handle property damage that resulted from the storm.