by Jennifer Sonntag on
Source: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/crock-pot-safety
Ahh…the go-to, easy-to-use appliance in our kitchens—crock-pots. They put the question, “What’s for dinner?” to rest and give our homes and apartments the home-cooked meal smell. Here are some trusted tips to consider when using your crock-pot:
Not everything is better with age If you’re just starting out and you’ve been “gifted” your mom’s (or grandma’s) old crock-pot, there’s something to consider: age. While it might be in great working order, a vintage crock pot from the ‘70s or ‘80s with an insert firmly attached to the heating element might need to be upgraded. Newer crock-pots also offer the convenience of being able to lift out the insert (bonus, it’s dishwasher safe!).
Some older crock-pot models also had vent holes or a notch in the lid for a spoon. While these might’ve been convenient, the rule of thumb is that crock-pot lids should fit snugly. If the lid is warped or has one of the mentioned “features,” steam and heat will escape. Cooking times could be off and you could end up with dry or burnt food.Read more
Make the connection It’s important to regularly check the crock-pot’s electrical cord (from the base to the plug). If there’s any sign of wear or tear, it’s probably time to buy a new one. Using a crock-pot with a broken plug or wire is a fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association, crock-pots are involved in an average of 150 home structure fires per year. Make sure to always unplug your crock-pot when it’s not in use.
Location, location, location It’s important to keep the crock-pot away from the edge of countertops and this includes not having the cord dangle off the edge. The closer it is to the edge, the easier it is for a person (or pet) to bump it or knock it over.
Tips to simmer over If you’re curious to see if your crock-pot is in working order, you can do a simple water test. Older crock-pots may not work as well as they once did, and for temperature and food safety purposes the water test will help you make the decision whether you should keep or toss it.
Fill the crock-pot 2/3 full with tap water (tepid water) and set your crock pot on the low setting. After 8 hours, use a thermometer to check the water’s temperature, which should be at least 185 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service.
As always, every crock-pot is different and has varying specifications by make and model. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions and take heed of anything suspicious or concerning. It’s better to cook safely than to be sorry…and hungry.
Keep these tips in mind the next time you pull out your crock-pot or any other small kitchen appliances. And remember to talk to your ERIE Agent for big kitchen or home upgrades to make sure you have the coverage you need.
by Erie Insurance on December 27, 2017
Source: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/5-driving-and-car-maintenance-resolutions
Whether it’s following a regular maintenance plan or making sure you’re prepared for an emergency, we’ve pulled together five driving and car maintenance resolutions for the New Year.
Procrastinating on regular maintenance. If you skimp on basic maintenance, your car can eventually quit or malfunction. If you’re on the road when it happens, you could lose control of your car, putting yourself and others in a dangerous situation. So, if it’s been awhile, get your car into the shop for an oil change. A mechanic can also check your vehicle’s filters, fluids, hoses and other key components. Also, ask about your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Find out if any parts are wearing out before they break.Read more
Neglecting your tires. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, not only does it add life to your tires, but they’re much safer on the roads, too. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nine percent of automobile crashes are related to tire failure. Don’t ignore the alerts from your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system. If you have an older vehicle, get into the habit of eyeing the tires whenever you approach the vehicle.
Preparation is key. Breakdowns happen, but it’s being prepared that’s important. If you have comprehensive vehicle coverage with ERIE, you can add Road Service coverage to your policy for as little as $5 per covered vehicle. It’s having that peace of mind, knowing that if you’re stranded, you’ll have help. It’s also important to put together an emergency car kit. Include the basics like a cell phone charger, blanket and small first aid kit, and extras like granola or energy bars and bottled water. Find the full list of emergency car kit items on the Eriesense blog.
Add extra time, not speed. If you have the need for speed, now’s a good time to rethink this habit. In 2015, nearly 10,000 people died in crashes where speed was a factor. (That’s 27 percent of all fatal crashes that year, according to the NHTSA.) Try leaving a few minutes early, and if traffic isn’t cooperating with your plans, just take a deep breath and back off the gas pedal. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and there’s no prize for arriving first.
Safe keeping. Take a look at your parking habits. Even if you’re parked in your driveway, garage or street, an unlocked vehicle is an open invitation for burglars. An unlocked vehicle invites easy access to your house, especially if your garage door opener is easily accessible. Also make sure you remove all bags, purses and valuables from your vehicle. Don’t make these an easy target for burglars.
Ready for a bonus tip? Make sure your vehicle has the proper coverages for your specific needs. Talk to your ERIE Agent to make sure you’re on the right path from the start in 2018.
