No matter how much you enjoy being on the water, suffering from nausea and fatigue on a boating excursion might make you wish your feet were planted on land. According to Montavit, about 10% of the population is extremely sensitive to motion sickness, with another 75% subject to occasional motion sickness. This travel illness can take a nice trip out at sea and turn it into a nightmare, but don't fret, I've got the answers for you. Here's some useful info on sea sickness so you can have a fun day out on the waves!

Why do I experience sea sickness?
Sea sickness is defined as motion sickness that happens on the water. The inner ear becomes unbalanced due to the rocking motion of a boat or ship and can have side effects like a cold sweat, upset stomach, fatigue, and/or nausea and vomiting.

6 Methods to Cure Sickness

1. Situate yourself in the middle of the boat. The middle of the boat has the most stability and will not feel as topsy-turvy as the back, front and sides may feel. If your boat doesn't have a place to sit in the middle, the front is the next best spot.
2. Steer the boat. Even better than sitting in the middle or front, having control of your surroundings will help control your nausea because you will be able to anticipate those major turns and wave maneuvers.
3. Find something stable to fix your eyes on. Finding something stable like the horizon to fix your eyes on will help restore some equilibrium, since your brain will recognize the stillness and calm your inner ear.
4. Talk to yourself. Although you may look silly, a study has shown that "verbal placebos" have been effective in preventing sea sickness. Telling yourself that you are not seasick has been proven to help, as well as learning breathing techniques to calm your stomach.
5. Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea, so look for foods and drinks with ginger in it to keep your nausea at bay. Ginger-ale and ginger cookies may be of help.
6. Use over-the-counter medication. Sometimes, no matter what you try, all other preventative measures don't seem to work just right. Talk to your doctor about preventing nausea from motion sickness with medications like Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or the Scopolamine Transdermal Patch, which will curb the nausea and get you back out on the water.

Above all else, try to avoid thinking about your nausea and focus on other things. Stay active to distract yourself and help pass the time. Enjoy your trip out at seas, and comment below if you have found any other remedies that help curb your motion sickness.

(Source: Wikihow)
Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/curing-sea-sickness.asp

You may tend to overlook your roof, but it's actually the most important component of your home - and the most vulnerable. It protects you from the elements like rain, snow and sun, but roofs don't last forever!

I didn't really think about the importance of roofs until recently when my friend and her husband bought their first home. It was built in the late 40s, and since she moved in she's been saying how badly her roof needs replacing. Of course, that was five months ago, and work has still yet to be done. I then thought to myself, is putting off the project really going to affect you that much?

The answer is, yes!

So — I began to research how one would go about replacing or repairing a roof.

The first order of business: understand the relationship between the age of your roof and its life expectancy. According to the Good Housekeeping magazine, shingle roofs should last between 20-30 years (if you have a different type of roof, such as metal or clay tile, you may have to follow different rules). If your home is new or the roof was recently replaced, you should be in the clear. However, it doesn't hurt to do a checkup after getting hit with severe weather like a hailstorm, ice and snow or crazy rain.
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If your roof is getting close to its 30th birthday, keep your eyes open for warning signs that tell you it's time for a revamp. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Loose shingle tabs
• Cracks in shingles
• Broken or missing tabs
• Buckling or curling shingles

• Shingles covered in moss or algae
• Majority of granules worn off tabs
• Sunlight is shining through the attic
• Extensive leaking

Whether you're a "sailor" who's going out to sea on a pontoon, speed boat, or sailboat, there's something special about being behind the wheel, cutting through the waves. However, I don't want your day to be ruined by forgetting the most essential items needed for your trip out at sea.

That's why you should follow this checklist cleverly titled the Sailors Scroll for Stocking Your Seaboat and never forget another important item again:

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device or Life Jacket): You will need at least one PFD for each person on board. Children under 13 are often required by law to wear a flotation device while on a boat. See what your state has to say about these PFD requirements.
• Whistle: Blow on the whistle while wet to make sure it still works through the water!
• Water: No matter how long you intend to stay out, bring a full supply of water for each sailor on board to ensure that you'll have access to clean water in case of the unexpected.
• First Aid Kit: You never know what the waves will bring while out boating. Make sure you always have a stocked first aid kit on board to tend to the small accidents as well as the big.

And don’t forget these other items:

• Boat registration
• Anchor
• Jumper cables
• Signal horn
• Fire Extinguisher
• Rope
• Bucket
• Spare clothes

• Razor blade or Swiss knife
• Flashlight
• Blanket
• Toliet Paper
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Food

Enjoy your day out at sea! Did we miss anything on our list? Comment below!

I am guessing I'm not the only one who doesn't want to share their home with eight-legged strangers. When I see those creepy spiders crawling across my floor I immediately feel like I need to check under every chair, table and rug for the rest of their families. Of course, in the part of the country I live in, the spiders are harmless, but that doesn't stop me from feeling just a little uneasy when crawling friends start taking over my home.

It's starting to get warmer out and that means that my home is beginning to be infiltrated with spiders! Because of that, I feel the need to share some tips and tricks for keeping those creepy, crawly creatures out of our homes:

Outside:

• Seal and cover cracks. Walk around your house and think like a spider. Cover the gaps around the house and especially around doors. Check whether screens and windows are repaired. Air vents need to be covered in hardware mesh and cracks sealed in the foundation.
• Clean up the perimeter. Clean up or move any leaves, woodpiles, or other debris next to your house. Spiders don't like wide open spaces, but they love dark nooks and crannies.
• Get rid of their paths. Trim any shrubs or stray branches that are touching the sides or roof of your home. These are a direct path for spiders.
• Spraying isn't the answer. According to the University of California's Integrated Pest Management Program, pesticide control is difficult and rarely necessary. Spiders are very resilient and you've practically got to fire the spray right at them. Instead, just clean up anything around the base and sides of your home.

Inside:

• Clean up your act. Allowing things to build up, like a stack of newspapers or a pile of shoes make perfect homes for spiders. Try to hang up or put away whatever you can.
• Vacuum their hiding places. Vacuuming up webs and dust leaves little room for spiders to feel comfortable. Spiders love hiding in webs and dust.
• Caulk. Caulk around doors and windows to keep the spiders outside and you safe and warm inside.

Whether or not you have eight-legged roommates trying to move in, it won't hurt to follow the above steps to deter any little creatures from trying to make your home their home!

Sometimes I am amazed at how distracted I can be while driving. Before I worked here at Foremost (in my opinion, a very safety conscience company) I never realized how distracted I really was. Just last week, I asked myself a series of "have you ever" questions:

• Have you ever arrived at your destination without really paying attention to how you got there because it is so routine?
• Have you ever picked up your phone while you are driving, if only to check the time?
• Have you ever looked down at the radio while changing stations?
• Have you ever read billboards fully while driving?
• Have you ever been so involved in a conversation on the phone that you forgot to make your turn?
• Have you ever turned around to look in the back seat at your child talking or sleeping?
• Have you ever reached for something in the back seat while driving?
• Have you ever looked in the mirror to groom yourself for a second while driving?

Enough said. This list could go on and on, but the fact is, I answered yes to all the above. (I'm guessing some of you did too?). I'm not proud, but these are small things that we do as drivers that could end in disaster. I've learned through the past year that all I should focus on while I'm driving is... driving. I can't say I'm perfect, but I've come a long way from the text crazy, distracted driver I once was.

So, to practice what I preach, here are some statistics from Distraction.gov to prove why distracted driving is so dangerous:

• Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell phone - even if it's hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving.
• Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone or driving distracted.
• Using a cell phone while driving - whether it's hand-held or hands-free delays a driver's reactions as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08 percent.

Check out these powerful and touching stories about distracted driving, and think twice before you pick up that cell phone while you are in the driver's seat.
Source: Sometimes I am amazed at how distracted I can be while driving. Before I worked here at Foremost (in my opinion, a very safety conscience company) I never realized how distracted I really was. Just last week, I asked myself a series of "have you ever" questions:

• Have you ever arrived at your destination without really paying attention to how you got there because it is so routine?
• Have you ever picked up your phone while you are driving, if only to check the time?
• Have you ever looked down at the radio while changing stations?
• Have you ever read billboards fully while driving?
• Have you ever been so involved in a conversation on the phone that you forgot to make your turn?
• Have you ever turned around to look in the back seat at your child talking or sleeping?
• Have you ever reached for something in the back seat while driving?
• Have you ever looked in the mirror to groom yourself for a second while driving?

Enough said. This list could go on and on, but the fact is, I answered yes to all the above. (I'm guessing some of you did too?). I'm not proud, but these are small things that we do as drivers that could end in disaster. I've learned through the past year that all I should focus on while I'm driving is... driving. I can't say I'm perfect, but I've come a long way from the text crazy, distracted driver I once was.
So, to practice what I preach, here are some statistics from Distraction.gov to prove why distracted driving is so dangerous:

• Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell phone - even if it's hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving.
• Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone or driving distracted.
• Using a cell phone while driving - whether it's hand-held or hands-free delays a driver's reactions as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08 percent.

Check out these powerful and touching stories about distracted driving, and think twice before you pick up that cell phone while you are in the driver's seat.
Source: Sometimes I am amazed at how distracted I can be while driving. Before I worked here at Foremost (in my opinion, a very safety conscience company) I never realized how distracted I really was. Just last week, I asked myself a series of "have you ever" questions:

• Have you ever arrived at your destination without really paying attention to how you got there because it is so routine?
• Have you ever picked up your phone while you are driving, if only to check the time?
• Have you ever looked down at the radio while changing stations?
• Have you ever read billboards fully while driving?
• Have you ever been so involved in a conversation on the phone that you forgot to make your turn?
• Have you ever turned around to look in the back seat at your child talking or sleeping?
• Have you ever reached for something in the back seat while driving?
• Have you ever looked in the mirror to groom yourself for a second while driving?

Enough said. This list could go on and on, but the fact is, I answered yes to all the above. (I'm guessing some of you did too?). I'm not proud, but these are small things that we do as drivers that could end in disaster. I've learned through the past year that all I should focus on while I'm driving is... driving. I can't say I'm perfect, but I've come a long way from the text crazy, distracted driver I once was.
So, to practice what I preach, here are some statistics from Distraction.gov to prove why distracted driving is so dangerous:

• Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell phone - even if it's hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving.
• Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone or driving distracted.
• Using a cell phone while driving - whether it's hand-held or hands-free delays a driver's reactions as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08 percent.

Check out these powerful and touching stories about distracted driving, and think twice before you pick up that cell phone while you are in the driver's seat.
​

Source: Sometimes I am amazed at how distracted I can be while driving. Before I worked here at Foremost (in my opinion, a very safety conscience company) I never realized how distracted I really was. Just last week, I asked myself a series of "have you ever" questions:

• Have you ever arrived at your destination without really paying attention to how you got there because it is so routine?
• Have you ever picked up your phone while you are driving, if only to check the time?
• Have you ever looked down at the radio while changing stations?
• Have you ever read billboards fully while driving?
• Have you ever been so involved in a conversation on the phone that you forgot to make your turn?
• Have you ever turned around to look in the back seat at your child talking or sleeping?
• Have you ever reached for something in the back seat while driving?
• Have you ever looked in the mirror to groom yourself for a second while driving?

Enough said. This list could go on and on, but the fact is, I answered yes to all the above. (I'm guessing some of you did too?). I'm not proud, but these are small things that we do as drivers that could end in disaster. I've learned through the past year that all I should focus on while I'm driving is... driving. I can't say I'm perfect, but I've come a long way from the text crazy, distracted driver I once was.
So, to practice what I preach, here are some statistics from Distraction.gov to prove why distracted driving is so dangerous:

• Research indicates that the burden of talking on a cell phone - even if it's hands-free - saps the brain of 39% of the energy it would ordinarily devote to safe driving.
• Our youngest and most inexperienced drivers are most at risk, with 16% of all distracted driving crashes involving drivers under 20. But they are not alone. At any given moment during daylight hours, over 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone or driving distracted.
• Using a cell phone while driving - whether it's hand-held or hands-free delays a driver's reactions as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08 percent.

Check out these powerful and touching stories about distracted driving, and think twice before you pick up that cell phone while you are in the driver's seat.

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/distracted-driving-dangers.asp

Warm weather has come early in some parts of the country, making boat owners itching to get out on the water. I speak from experience, since I inherited a boat and will be putting it on the water this summer. It has been unseasonably warm in my part of the country and I can't wait for it to become the appropriate time to ride the waves. However, our marine product manager, Brad Seeley, has reminded me that there are many things I need to do in order to get that beauty ready for the season.

If you are struggling with the pre-launch boat preparation, here are some great tips from Discover Boating to help get that ride out as soon as possible.

• Inspect the fuel system for any leaks or damage. Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are all functioning properly. (You may want to run the motor out of the water first.) Also, it's recommended to change the oil before your first run of the year.
• Check the belts, cables and hoses. They can become brittle and may crack or swell during the winter.
• Inspect electrical connections for cleanliness or tightness. Charge your battery and have it tested to ensure it can hold a charge. Electrical systems should be regularly inspected by a qualified technician.
• Check all fluid levels; change the engine oil, oil filter, and drive lubricants, if these tasks were not done prior to winterizing your boat.
• Inspect propellers for dings, pitting, cracks and distortion. Be sure to clean the hull, deck and topsides and make sure the drain plug is securely in place before every launch.
• Check your safety gear! Make sure your life jackets are in good condition and that there are enough on board for all potential passengers. Be sure on board fire extinguishers are the correct class and are fully charged.

A couple hours before your summer launch could save you huge headaches later. After researching this topic, I picked up a couple of my own tips. A lot of boat owners say to have extra plugs on hand, just in case. Also, brushing up on a boater's safety class is always a good idea and if you have a Foremost policy, you may be eligible for a discount.

Get prepared to enjoy this boating season and leave the rest to the water.

There is a risk every time you're out on the road. Protect yourself from these common motorcycle crashes by being a proactive driver.








Left Hand Turns Collisions
In these cases, the opposite driver makes a left hand turn at an intersection in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. The driver may not see the biker, or they misjudge the speed and distance at which the biker is coming toward them.

Tips:

• Slow down at intersections.
• Anticipate the direction and speed of oncoming drivers.
• Watch for turn signals. Be ready to slow down or maneuver if a car pulls in front of you.

Head on Collisions
A head on collision is one of the most dangerous situations for a biker. Keep an eye on oncoming traffic, especially as it gets dark.
Tips:

• The National Safety Council stands by the four R's:
  1. Read the road
  2. Drive to the right
  3. Reduce your speed
  4. Ride off the road
• If an oncoming driver enters your lane, direct yourself toward the path of least resistance.

Lane Changing Collisions
The small structure of a motorcycle puts it at a higher risk of not being seen, especially on a highway dominated by semi-trucks. Proactive driving will reduce the risk of being involved in a lane changing collision. If you can't see the mirror or face of the driver, you are in their blind spot.

Tips:

• Never ride in a blind spot.
• Speed up or slow down to create space between yourself and other drivers.
• Anticipate lane changes. Turn signals, mirror checks and turning wheels are signs that a driver is planning to switch lanes.

Rear End Collisions
There are situations when a biker is caught off guard and collides with a vehicle in front of them. Stay vigilant on the road. Traffic conditions can change at any time.
Tips:

• Pay attention to traffic in front of you.
• Watch for brake lights.
• Keep a large distance between you and other vehicles to give yourself time to brake.

Corner Accidents
Be cautious when coming up on a corner. Debris on the road can cause your front tire to slip and lay down your bike. Turns can often be misleading, appearing wider than they really are. Be aware of your skill level and never take on a ride that you don't feel comfortable with.
Tips:

• Assess road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.
• Be cautious after large storms. Leaves or branches may have fallen, creating hazards around the corner.
• Take turns wide and slow.
• Trust your bike and lean into your turns.
• Stay calm and keep your eyes directed in front of you.

Foremost wants you to be safe! Though some accidents can't be prevented, it is important to do everything you can to keep yourself out of harm's way while you're on the road. Always be aware of your surroundings, and remember these tips when you ride!
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Whether you're a novice or a skilled motorcycle operator, there are going to be times when hazards on the road test your handling abilities. The best defense you have is the ability to react quickly and calmly to the hazards that appear in your path. Use our motorcycle riding safety tips below.

Before you go out riding, watch your local weather forecast. If there is a possibility of rain, snow, strong winds or other potentially dangerous weather on the way, you may want to leave your motorcycle parked where it is and choose a more appropriate method of transportation. But you can't always predict the weather, and there is always the possibility you could get caught in dangerous driving conditions.

Depending on the specific hazard or road conditions, there are some things you can do - and can practice beforehand - to ensure that you know how to react when these conditions arise. Depending on whether you're riding in slick conditions like rain, snow or wet leaves or trying to avoid hazards in the road such as potholes, debris or uneven pavement, here are a few motorcycle riding safety tips that could help you react in ways that will, keep you and your bike safe.

When Surfaces are Slick
There are several conditions that could cause a riding surface to become slippery and require you to react quickly. Some of these elements are liquids (such as oil spots) on the road, rain, wet leaves, sand, gravel, and snow and ice. Regardless of the cause of the slippery surface, here are some tips that might help you maneuver through these less-than-ideal conditions:

• Reduce your speed - A slippery surface will result in a longer stopping time. Slow down and pay close attention to changes in the driving surface.
• Use both brakes - Your front brake is responsible for three-quarters of your braking ability. Apply the front brake slowly and consistently without locking the wheel. Apply the rear brake in the same manner. Try not to brake mid-corner and remember the risk of sliding increases with acceleration.
• Avoid sudden moves - On a slippery surface, sudden movements will be exaggerated and could cause you to lose balance. Gradual, deliberate movements will help keep the bike steady and help you avoid skidding.
• Try to avoid the slickest areas - The center of the lane and intersections are where oil and other slippery substances tend to build up. To avoid these areas, ride where you're most likely to be seen AND avoid the hazard. Try to avoid the sides of the road where dirt, gravel and snow collect and cause low-traction conditions.

When Strong Winds Blow
Strong winds can catch you off-guard and throw you off balance when you're on a motorcycle ride. Opposed to other weather hazards, you can't see it coming. Be aware of weather conditions before you ride and take extra precautions when winds are extreme. Look ahead on the path you're riding and try to determine where the wind is going to catch you so you can plan for it. Some areas to watch out for include bridges, gaps between buildings and trees, open roads, coastal areas and gusts as large trucks pass. Try and figure out which way the wind is going to blow you and then do the following:

• Ride on the side of the lane that gives you the most room to maneuver.
• Keep your distance from other cars as well as the side and centerline of the road.
• Practice good posture. A good grip on the handle bars, a firm planting of your feet on the pegs and keeping your arms and shoulders flexible will help you maintain control and balance.
• Steer into the wind as much as possible. In addition, it's extremely important in windy conditions to be aware of debris such as branches that have blown into your path.

When Debris or Hazards Appear in Your Path
There are many times that hazards such as potholes, branches or items in the road might appear seemingly out of nowhere. It is very important that you practice avoiding hazards, and are able to react quickly and calmly when they do appear.

Often, you will need to make a quick turn to avoid the object or hazard. To do this, you should lean quickly in the direction you want to turn and press on the inside of the hand grip on the same side. This will cause the front wheel to move slightly in the opposite direction while still allowing the bike to move straight ahead to avoid the object without losing balance or throwing the bike too far off course.
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If you have to ride over an object, it is important that you:

• Hold onto the hand grips tightly.
• Keep a straight course.
• Rise up slightly on the foot pegs to absorb the shock.

Once you have driven over an object or hazard in the road, it's a good idea to pull over and inspect your bike and tires for any damage.
The same advice holds true when dealing with uneven surfaces like potholes, broken pavement or railroad tracks:

• Slow down.
• Hold onto the hand grips tightly.
• Keep a straight course.
• Rise up slightly on the foot pegs to absorb the shock.
• Try to cross the uneven surface at an angle.

SEE
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has developed this proactive defense-driving tool as an easy way to recall what steps you should take if a hazard crosses your path while you're riding your motorcycle. Keep “SEE” in mind when you're out riding as a good first step in deciding what you need to do.

S - Search around you for potential hazards. Look ahead, to the sides, in your mirrors and even over your shoulder.
E - Evaluate any possible hazards or dangers such as an oncoming car making a left turn, a driver speeding up behind you or a car waiting to pull onto the road.
E - Execute the action needed to avoid the hazard such as braking or turning.

If you take the steps to identify and react quickly and calmly to the hazards that you could face on the road, you are in a much better position to come out of a potentially dangerous situation unscathed. Nothing can take the place of practice when you're riding a motorcycle, so it's a good idea to spend some time trying to avoid obstacles or potential hazards in a safe environment. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course to prepare yourself for what you could face.

Motorcycle Insurance
In addition to doing what you can to protect your motorcycle and yourself from potential hazards out on the road, it's important that you have the right motorcycle insurance. You need an insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle. Take a look at our coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote.
​
Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bikes breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home because you run out of gas, get a flat, or have other mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

According to National Insurance Crime Bureau statistics, motor vehicle thefts are on the rise, and among the vehicles being targeted are motorcycles. It's one thing to have your property stolen, but if it is something you love and have become attached to, that is a different story altogether. And only 25% to 30% of motorcycles are recovered after theft. Read below to learn how to prevent motorcycle theft.

Thieves steal motorcycles to resell the whole bike or to strip it down and sell the parts. The fact that motorcycles are small and relatively easy to move makes them particularly vulnerable to theft. Smart thieves will find a way to steal your bike if they really want it, but there are things you can do to protect your investment and make your motorcycle less appealing to a thief. You can make it bothersome for them to try to steal it.

There are several relatively simple and inexpensive ways to help prevent motorcycle theft. One of these methods alone might not be enough to deter a determined thief, but using more than one – or better yet, several – of these methods just might make the difference in whether a thief stops at your house or keeps going.

Keep your bike out of sight
The best bet is to keep your motorcycle in a locked garage. For some people, this might not be an option. If you have to keep your bike parked outside, start by keeping it in a well-lit area and out of direct view from the street. It should be covered with a plain cover that is free of logos or brand names. If the thief can't tell by the cover what type of motorcycle is underneath, they may be more inclined to pass it over. In addition, you should keep the cover locked to the bike with a cable lock. However, this won't prevent a thief from picking up the whole bike and taking it, cover and all. That's why it is important to use this in conjunction with other security measures.

Lock your bike to a stationary object
Even if you have your bike in a locked garage when not in use, it is a good idea to also have it locked to something immovable. One method would be to cement a steel eye to the floor to put a chain or cable through. When using a chain or cable lock, be sure to loop it through the frame or another stable part of the bike. When you're out riding and leave your bike parked outside, always use your steering lock – this is your first step of defense. In addition, you should use two or more locks of different types. If possible, park your bike where you can see it and check on it periodically.

Make good lock choices
When choosing locks, it's not a good idea to spare expense. Choose good locks. Types of locks include serpentine link locks, u-locks and chains. Record key numbers and then file them off the locks if they are stamped on them. Locks attached to your bike should not touch the ground. If a lock is lying on the ground, it is easier for a thief to use a hard item to pound the lock until it breaks. Even if you keep your motorcycle in a locked garage, it's always a good idea to look around to make sure you're not providing a thief with the tools to dismantle your locks. There are usually a lot of tools in a garage and with time and determination, a thief will be able to remove the locks from your bike.

Other devices
There are several new mechanical devices that can help ensure you'll find your bike where you left it. Many dealers are now selling motorcycles with alarms as a standard feature, as well as similar anti-theft devices. An alarm alone is not an effective deterrent, but in combination with other methods, a wailing alarm is liable to make a thief think twice. Even if your motorcycle isn't equipped with an alarm, you can get stickers that say that there is an alarm installed and put them on your bike. You can also purchase anti-prying devices, pick-resistant mechanisms or you can install one or more kill switches to make the motorcycle impossible to start.

Common sense
The best way to protect your motorcycle from theft is to use common sense. Don't leave the keys in the ignition or anywhere within close proximity to the bike. Make sure that you choose the safest places possible to park or store your bike. And don't lock your bike down to something that can easily be moved or broken and assume it's still going to be there when you come back.

Why have motorcycle insurance?
In addition to being confident that you are doing what you can to prevent motorcycle theft, it's important that you have the right insurance. You need a motorcycle insurance policy that offers the coverages that are important to your specific bike and lifestyle.
Important things to look for when choosing a specialized motorcycle insurance policy:

• Safety Apparel Coverage to protect your investment in helmets, leathers, gloves and any other clothing designed to minimize injury in the event of an accident.
• Optional Equipment Coverage for chroming, custom painting, side cars or anything else that was not included as standard by the manufacturer.
• Optional Towing and Roadside Assistance in case your bike breaks down and can't be ridden when you're away from home or you run out of gas, get a flat or have mechanical issues.
• Optional Replacement Cost Coverage on bikes purchased new and insured within 30 days.
• Flexible payment plans so you can choose the plan that best fits your budget.
• Deductible and coverage limit options.
• Premium discounts.

The Foremost Insurance Group of Companies provides all of these important coverages and more in our specialized Motorcycle insurance program. Learn more about coverage options on our motorcycle insurance page, or get a quote

After what felt like an endless winter, everything is slowly starting to thaw out and melt. Spring is one of my favorite times of the year, and as a new homeowner, I am starting to observe new things on my home that I need to inspect, and projects I want to tackle this summer. I purchased my home in the dead of winter with snow piled up on the exterior, so I couldn't fully see everything as much as I would have liked. Now that I have a clear view, it's time to start my spring maintenance checklist and inspect for any damage sustained during winter.

• Examine your roof. Inspect your shingles to see if any blew away or were damaged during winter. Shingles that are loose, cracked or buckled need to be replaced. If you come across any of these issues, call a professional to assess the damage.
• Check the gutters. Grab your gloves and clean out all of the leaves and debris in your gutters and downspouts. Then, inspect your gutters and make sure they aren't sagging. Make sure the downspouts are facing away from the foundation for proper draining.
• Inspect your driveway and other areas with concrete. Look over your driveway and sidewalks for any sign of cracks or movement. If you see any, you can fill them in with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk.
• Check the outside faucets and hoses. Turn on the water to make sure it's still running properly and place your thumb over the opening. If this stops the water flow, the water pressure may be too low and one of your pipes may be damaged. Call a professional for further assistance.
• Inspect windows and doors. Check for bent or broken hinges, and any cracks or holes. Depending on how serious the damage is, you can either replace or repair your door. If you have a screen door, you can usually buy a repair kit to fix any holes or tears so bugs can’t sneak through. If your windows look good, take the opportunity to wipe down the interior of the window sills if there is any dirt or mold present.
• Inspect your deck and fences. If you have a wooden fence, repair or replace any loose slats or rotted sections. For your deck, look for any signs of water stains or discoloration. Remove any loose or rusty nails, and make sure the railings and stairs are secure.
• Run your in-ground sprinkling system. Turn your sprinklers on to make sure they are working properly. Also look for any leaks or broken sprinkler heads, and readjust them if needed.
• Inspect your AC unit. Clean up any leaves or branches around the cooling unit, and change the filters. If you want a professional cleaning or a tune-up, you can call a qualified heating and cooling contractor.

Good luck and happy spring!