August 2023
Provided by: RS Risk Solutions

Understanding and Staying Safe from Summer Heat Illnesses

Warm weather and sunny days are among the best parts of summer, but its possible to have to much of a good thing. When enjoying the summer sun, its essential to do so safely and responsibly. After all, extended exposure to high temperatures could be dangerous.

Heat illnesses can have significant effects on your short and long term health. Common heat-related conditions may include heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

If you or anyone experiences heat exhaustion, follow these four steps:
1. Move the person to a cool place.
2. Remove all unnecessary clothing like jackets and socks.
3. Get the person to drink a rehydration drink or cool water.
4. Cool the skin. Specifically, spray or sponge the body with cool water and wrap cold packs in a cloth and place on the neck or under the armpits.
To reduce your risk of developing a heat-related illness in the first place, consider the following tips:
• Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and avoid dark colours during sunny conditions.
• Check the forecast. Avoid planning outdoor and high-intensity activities on days with high temperatures.
• Enjoy air-conditioning. Remain indoors on hot days. If you don’t have air-conditioning at home, consider getting some relief in a public area, such as shopping centre of library.
• Stay hydrated. Drink water, juice and sports drinks regularly to replenish your fluids, salts and minerals; avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Wear sunscreen. Being sunburnt may contribute to dehydration and affect your body’s ability to cool.
For additional lifestyle and safety guidance, contact us today.

Home

5 Home Security Tips
Many homes may be heading into poverty amid the cost-of-living crisis. This means that theft and burglary rates may increase, particularly in urban areas where people in greater need could resort to crime to get by. While householders cant influence crime rates, they can take steps to ensure that they are less vulnerable.

Consider some of the following home security tips to help your home become less vulnerable to crime:
• Install security cameras. Security cameras can allow you to see and hear what’s happening inside and around your home. The footage from these cameras can be viewed on most smartphones, tablets, and computers so you can keep an eye on your home from near or far.
• Secure windows. Windows are an easy entrance point for burglars. Lock your windows whenever you leave the house and at night during warmer months. In addition, if you can prove to your insurance provider that your windows are secure, you may receive a more affordable insurance quote.
• Store Valuables. Ensure valuables such as jewellery, laptops and keys aren’t visible or easily accessible in your home if you’re away or sleeping. Burglars are known for sighting opportunities to take easy, valuable items.
• Install lights for night-time. Motion-activated lights can help deter criminals, as most want to go unseen. In addition, leave your porch and side-door lights on for additional visibility.
• Avoid making it obvious when you’re away. Its easier for a burglar to enter your home and steal belongings if they know someone isn’t home. If you’re away for extended periods of time, such as on holiday, avoid posting it on public social media accounts. Also, consider having a trusted friend check your home while you’re away.
In addition to following proper home security precautions, its important to complement these measures with adequate home insurance.

For additional tips or information on home insurance, contact us today.

Motor
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Motor Insurance

While purchasing motor insurance is a legal requirement and an essential loss control measure, you should also understand potential pitfalls that could affect your costs and cover, potentially leaving you with insufficient financial security in the future.

When applying for motor insurance, avoid the following pitfalls:

• Failing to list all drivers – Make sure anyone who drives your vehicle is listed on your policy.
• Providing an incorrect address – The listed location of your vehicle may affect your cover, and failing to list an accurate address may leave you with insufficient insurance.
• Concealing infractions – Failing to disclose infractions or other parts of your driving record could lead to you lacking cover on incurring penalties.
• Failing to report all uses – If you use your vehicle for business reasons, including driving for a rideshare or delivery service, you may require commercial motor insurance.
Contact us today for additional motor insurance and safety solutions.