Allco Insurance Blog

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Your Sprinkler System

Fri, 15 May 2026 22:19:23 GMT

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Your Sprinkler System

Key takeaways

Your sprinkler system is the unsung hero of a lush, green lawn and garden. Unfortunately, many systems only get the attention and care they need until a problem arises.

Given the vital role sprinklers play in keeping your home’s outdoor spaces looking the way they should, regular maintenance is essential.
Learn what’s involved in caring for your sprinkler.
Learn the importance of regular care and the best time of the year to give your system a checkup.

What’s involved in sprinkler system maintenance?

While the degree of care your sprinkler system may need depends on your local climate and the specific needs of your lawn or garden, most checkups involve performing some basic maintenance steps that include:

Inspecting the system’s control valves
Checking and cleaning sprinkler heads and visible pipes for signs of damage
Testing your system’s water pressure and flow
Looking for leaks at joints between sprinklers and pipes
Checking water tanks for possible issues
Adjusting sprinklers that are spraying onto driveways, sidewalks, or walls towards your landscape

When is the best time to give my sprinkler system a checkup?

Most experts suggest giving your sprinkler system a onceover just prior to spring so that it’s in tiptop shape for the growing season. Checking for issues early in the season gives you time to make any necessary repairs or replacements before the warmer weather sets in. Other sources recommend checking systems at the start of every season just before the weather changes, while some advise monthly inspections.

No matter when you decide to schedule your sprinkler systems maintenance, it’s always a good idea to have an irrigation specialist professionally inspect your system at least once a year. This is particularly important when turning on your system before the onset of warmer weather, or when shutting off your system just prior to winter. This helps to ensure that your system can run as efficiently as possible when you need it most.

Why is it important to perform regular maintenance on my sprinkler system?

To keep your sprinkler system working as efficiently and effectively as possible, proper maintenance is key. Most irrigation experts agree that ignoring your system can cause smaller problems to develop into big issues that can cost you time and money and affect the health and appearance of your lawn and garden. The following are key examples of why giving your system regular checkups is so important.

Increased efficiency and longevity. Sprinkler systems have many small moving parts that can become clogged, broken, or malfunction. Regular maintenance can help you to identify and fix issues before they turn into big problems, ensuring that your system is working the way it should.

Improved water conservation. Did you know that a sprinkler system with a leak that is the thickness of a dime can waste about 6,300 gallons of water per month? A well-maintained sprinkler system not only keeps your lawn and garden lush and healthy, but also helps to conserve water. Checking your system for optimal water pressure and even distribution can prevent the wasting of water waste due to an overwatering issue.

Greater cost savings. Not only can neglected sprinklers lead to costly repair bills, but undetected leaks in systems can damage your lawn and create muddy areas around your home and affect your foundation. Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early, sparing you from expensive repair bills. In addition, the timely replacement of faulty system components such as sprinkler valves, can extend the overall lifespan of your sprinkler system, saving you from having to replace it sooner than expected.

Better landscape damage prevention. A well-maintained lawn and garden can enhance the curb appeal of your home and may even increase its value. If you are planning a vacation or putting your home on the market during the spring or summer months, having a reliable sprinkler system to keep your landscape looking its best is an especially important factor.

Greater time savings. Automatic sprinkler systems that are well maintained save time by allowing you to keep your lawn and garden lush and green without all the extra effort. Is your rose garden getting too much water? Does the lawn need additional moisture? A timer allows you to divide your property into different irrigation zones and dispense a precise amount of water to specific targeted areas – without having to move around a hose or sprinkler. If you aren’t sure how much water specific plant beds or areas of your landscape require, ask your local landscaper and sprinkler installer.

It’s not that hard to maintain your sprinklers

The upkeep of your home’s sprinkler systems isn’t just a matter of maintaining a green lawn and garden. It’s about efficiency, conservation, cost savings, and even enhancing the value of your home. Establishing a regular maintenance schedule can help prevent costly repairs, conserve water, and keep your outdoor spaces looking their best. Make this the year that you don’t overlook this crucial aspect of homeownership. Your lawn, your wallet, and the environment will thank you.

Allco Newsletter May 2026

Mon, 04 May 2026 07:00:00 GMT

May Newsletter

Hello May

Happy May! This month's update brings you helpful advice, timely insights, and resources you need to know as the month continues.

What's included: What you should know about flooding and flood insurance, a few dates to mark on your calendar, Dave's Corner, and a roundup of articles worth reading this month.

Flooding and Insurance: What Most Homeowners Don't Know Until It's Too Late.

Here's something that surprises many homeowners: a standard homeowners insurance policy typically does not cover flood damage. Flooding and water damage are treated very differently under most policies, and that distinction matters a great deal when water starts rising.

A few things that are generally covered under a standard homeowners policy:

Wind-driven rain that causes sudden damage.
A roof collapse caused by the weight of ice or snow.
Sudden and accidental water damage from a covered event.

A few things that are generally not covered:

Flooding from heavy rainfall.
Water that enters through existing leaks or due to neglect.
Groundwater or rising water that enters the home.

Flood insurance is a separate policy entirely. It's available through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or through certain private insurers. Coverage through the NFIP can go up to $250,000 for the structure of a home and up to $100,000 for personal belongings. However, there is one important detail to keep in mind: most flood insurance policies don't take effect until 30 days after signing, so waiting until a storm is on the radar is too late.

It's also worth noting that flooding is not just a concern in coastal or low-lying areas. Nearly every county in the United States has experienced some form of flooding in recent decades, and only about 4% of homeowners nationwide currently carry flood insurance. That gap leaves many people in a very difficult position when the unexpected happens.

A few simple steps you can take now to reduce your risk:

Keep gutters clear, so water has a path away from your home.
Check your grading to make sure the ground slopes away from your foundation.
Consider a sump pump if your basement is prone to water collection.
Review your current policy, so you know exactly what is and isn't covered before you need to find out the hard way.

If you've ever wondered whether flood insurance makes sense for your situation, we're happy to walk you through your options. Every home and location is different, and a quick conversation can go a long way in making sure you're not caught off guard. Contact us!

Save the Dates

Mark Your Calendar

Here are a few notable dates and reminders to keep in mind this month!

May 10th is Mother’s Day. This is a chance to celebrate all of the moms, grandmothers, and maternal figures for all they do for us!
May 17th is World Hypertension Day. Hypertension affects more than one billion people around the globe and is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease. If you haven’t had a check-up in a while, let this serve as a reminder to get your blood pressure checked!
May 27th is National Sunscreen Day. As part of National Safe Sun Week, this awareness day serves as a reminder to apply sunscreen before heading outside this summer.
May 28th is International Burger Day. Whether pan-fried, flame-broiled, or barbecued, burgers have earned their place as one of the world's most beloved foods. Celebrate accordingly!

Dave's Corner

Real People Who Found Creative Ways to Earn $1,000 Extra

Key Takeaways

Earning an extra $1,000 can give you breathing room and help you start an emergency fund.
Real people reached this goal by using what they already had—like their home, skills, extra items or free time.
They treated the extra work like a short-term mission with a clear goal in mind.
You can do the same by starting where you are and staying consistent.

We Love Referrals!

A referral is the highest compliment you can give us! To show our appreciation for every referral we enter your name into our monthly drawing. You could win gift cards or cash. Also, for every referral that you send to Allco Insurance, that writes a policy with us, we donate $10 to Stripes of a Warrior. Stripes of a Warrior is a great cause that we support wholeheartedly. They will provide financial assistance to those that have been diagnosed with cancer and are unable to afford their housing, medical bills, medication, or food expenses. Referrals have helped raise over $28,000 in the past 9 years for Stripes of a Warrior. To learn click HERE.

Article Round-Up

May Article Round-Up

We've rounded up a few great reads from around the web to keep you informed and entertained this month:

The Cannes Film Festival has unveiled its 2026 Official Selection, and the lineup is already generating plenty of buzz. Check out the full selection on ScreenDaily.
The 2026 American Music Awards nominations have been announced, and Rolling Stone has the full breakdown.
Mother's Day is coming up fast! If you're still searching for the perfect gift, Taste of Home put together a beautiful guide to the best flowers for Mom, with a few extra surprises included.
May 2026 is bringing us a blue Moon. BBC Sky at Night Magazine has everything you need to know about how to spot it and why it's worth watching.
Memorial Day Weekend is right around the corner, and How Sweet Eats has 60 recipes ready to make your cookout one to remember.

Just for Smiles

In honor of Mother's Day just around the corner...

"Why don't moms ever play hide and seek? Because good luck hiding when your kid calls for you every 30 seconds!"

Here's to all the moms out there who never seem to slow down, even on their special day!

That's all!

As always, if you have any insurance questions or want to make sure your coverage is where it needs to be heading into summer, don't hesitate to reach out. We're happy to help.

How to Document Business Property for Insurance Purposes

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:19:02 GMT

Many businesses rely on equipment, inventory, furniture, and technology to operate day to day. While these assets are essential, they are often not well documented, which can cause difficulties if the business experiences a loss and needs to file an insurance claim. Creating a clear record of your business property can make it easier to understand the value of what you own and can simplify things if you ever need to reference that information.

A straightforward documentation process does not need to be complicated. With a little planning, you can create a reliable record of your business property that stays useful as your company grows.

Start with a Detailed Inventory

The first step is to build a complete inventory of the items your business owns. This should include equipment, tools, furniture, computers, inventory, and any other property used to run your operations.

For each item, record details such as the item name, brand, model number, purchase date, and estimated value. If available, include the original purchase price. Keeping this information in a spreadsheet or inventory management system can make it easier to update later.

If your business owns a large number of items, you may want to group them by category, such as office equipment, production tools, or retail inventory. Organized records make future updates much simpler.

Take Photos and Videos

Photos and videos can provide useful visual documentation of your property. Walk through your workspace and take clear photos of equipment, inventory shelves, storage areas, and office spaces.

When possible, capture close-up photos of serial numbers, labels, and identifying features. These details can help confirm ownership and provide clarity if questions arise later.

A short video walkthrough of your business location can also help show how items are stored and used.

Save Receipts and Purchase Records

Receipts, invoices, and purchase confirmations help establish when items were purchased and how much they cost. Keeping these records alongside your inventory list helps create a more complete data set.

Digital copies are often the easiest to store and organize. Scanning receipts or saving electronic invoices in a cloud folder can make them accessible whenever you need them.

If your business regularly purchases equipment or inventory, creating a simple filing system for these records can save time in the future.

Update Your Records Regularly

Once your documentation is complete, make sure it is stored in a secure and accessible place. Cloud storage platforms, external hard drives, or secure document systems can all work well. It is also helpful to keep a backup copy in case files are accidentally deleted or lost.

Business property changes over time as equipment is replaced, inventory levels shift, or new tools are purchased. Reviewing and updating your inventory once or twice a year helps keep your records accurate. You may also want to update documentation after large purchases or major changes to your operations.

Keeping clear records of your business property is an important part of maintaining organized operations. It can also support conversations about coverage needs. Contact us today to review your commercial property insurance coverage and make sure your business property is properly protected.

Mercury Insurance's New Water Leak Detection Program for Homeowners

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Protect Your Home from Costly Water Damage with Smart Leak Detection

Your home and belongings are some of your most valuable investments and protecting them from unexpected damage is an important part of smart homeownership. One of the leading causes of property damage is water leaks, which can happen without warning and quickly turn into a stressful and expensive repair. Smart water leak detection helps provide an early alert when unusual water flow is detected, giving you the opportunity to act quickly before a small issue becomes a much bigger problem.

Mercury’s smart home insurance is designed to better protect homeowners from this common risk. Water losses can do more than damage floors, walls, and personal belongings. They can also disrupt your daily life by making kitchens or bathrooms unusable and, in more severe situations, forcing families to move out of their homes for months while repairs are completed. With smart water detection technology, homeowners can take a proactive step toward reducing the chance of major water damage and avoiding the inconvenience that often comes with it.

There is also a financial benefit to making this upgrade. In addition to getting a great value on smart home water detection products, homeowners may also save money on their insurance and possibly even reduce their water bill. It is a simple step that can offer added protection, greater peace of mind, and meaningful savings over time.

To further help protect customers from unexpected water damage, Mercury is also introducing a new water leak detection requirement for certain new homeowners policies. For policies effective May 29, 2026 and later, qualifying smart water leak detection devices must be installed on NEW HO-3 policies before the first renewal if the property is 30 years old or older and located in a high non-weather water risk territory, 50 years old or older with Coverage A of $2 million or more, 30 years old or older with Coverage A of $2.5 million or more, or has Coverage A of $3 million or more.

Qualifying devices include Whole Home Water Flow Monitoring, which continuously tracks water flow and sends real-time alerts when something unusual occurs; Smart or Centrally Monitored Leak Detection and Shutoff, which can automatically shut off water when a leak is detected; and Smart Point of Leak Sensors, which send an alert when water touches the sensor. For homes using point-of-leak sensors, at least two more sensors than the total number of bathrooms must be installed. Secondary or seasonal homes with a Coverage A limit of $2 million or more are required to install a smart or centrally monitored leak detection and shutoff device. In addition to helping avoid costly claims, customers may also receive a discount on their homeowners policy after a qualifying device is installed.

If you have questions about these requirements or want help finding the right leak detection solution for your home, contact our team today or click HERE to learn more. We’re here to help you review your coverage, understand your options, and make sure your home stays protected.

Allco Newsletter April 2026

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 18:05:39 GMT

April Newsletter

Hello April

Happy April! I hope the season is treating you well. This month's update brings you helpful insights, notable dates, and more.

What's included: Protecting your home from break-ins and understanding your coverage, marking your April calendar, Dave's Corner, a laugh for the month, and our spring article roundup.

Spring Is Prime Time for Break-Ins — What To Know and How To Stay Protected

As the days get longer and more people spend time outdoors, opportunistic theft tends to pick up this time of year. The good news is that a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk, and knowing what your insurance covers can give you real peace of mind in case of an emergency.

Practical Steps To Protect Your Home This Spring:

Secure your entry points. Make sure all doors and windows have working locks.
Add motion-activated lighting. Well-lit entry points, driveways, and dark corners of your yard are among the most effective deterrents for would-be intruders.
Be mindful on social media. Sharing vacation plans or travel photos while you are away signals to strangers that your home is unoccupied. Save the recap for when you are back.
Build a home inventory. Documenting your belongings can significantly speed up the claims process if you ever need to file one.
Get to know your neighbors. A connected neighborhood is one of the best security systems around. Neighbors who look out for each other are far more likely to notice and report suspicious activity.

What does your homeowners or renters insurance cover after a break-in?

Most homeowners and renters insurance policies provide protection against theft, break-ins, and burglaries. Here is a general overview of what is typically covered:

Stolen personal belongings, such as electronics, clothing, and furniture, are generally covered up to your policy limits.
Property damage caused during the break-in, such as damaged doors, windows, and entry points, is typically covered as well.
Additional living expenses may be covered in extreme cases where your home becomes temporarily uninhabitable during repairs.

A few important things to keep in mind:

High-value items like jewelry, art, and collectibles may have coverage limitations. If you own especially valuable possessions, a rider or additional coverage may be worth considering.
Your deductible, the amount you pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in, applies to theft claims just as it does to other claims.
Renters, take note: Your landlord's insurance covers the building itself, but it does not protect your personal belongings. Only renters insurance covers your possessions and provides liability protection inside your rental.

If you have questions about what your current policy covers or want to make sure your coverage is up to date, I am always happy to take a look with you. A quick review now can save a lot of uncertainty later.

Save the Dates

Mark Your Calendar

Here are a few notable dates to keep on your radar this April.

April 7th is World Health Day. Each year, the World Health Organization uses this day to highlight a pressing global health theme. This year, the focus is on the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet.
April 11th is National Pet Day. If you have a four-legged friend at home, today is your official excuse to give them an extra squeeze.
April 18th is National Exercise Day. A timely reminder that regular physical activity is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health and well-being. Even a short walk counts. Start where you are, and build from there.
April 28th is Global Pay It Forward Day. This day serves as a reminder to “pay it forward” by doing an act of kindness for another person after someone does one for you. This could look like lending a helping hand to someone in need, paying for the car behind you at a drive-thru, or simply taking the time to be a friendly face to someone having a bad day.

Dave's Corner

101 Free Things to Do With Kids

Let’s be real: Keeping your kids entertained on a budget can be hard. (Have you seen the price of movie theater snacks lately?)

From art projects and outdoor games to online learning and local activities, here are 101 fun things to do with kids that won’t cost you money.

We Love Referrals!

Article Round-Up

April Article Round-Up

We have rounded up a few timely reads from around the web to keep you informed and entertained this spring.

April’s rainy days got you stuck inside? Check out RealSimple’s list of 50 things to do when stuck inside on a rainy day for some boredom-beating inspiration.
For those anxiously awaiting the start of football season, ESPN has released their 2026 NFL mock draft with top 10 pick predictions fresh off free agency — worth a read for any football fan.
If you’re looking for more ways to treat any backyard feathered friends, CNN has a roundup of the best smart bird feeders of 2026 for you to peruse.
Earth Day is April 22nd, and the Almanac has a great guide on how to celebrate and make a positive impact this year.
Ready for a spring getaway? The BBC has rounded up six of the best spring travel destinations for 2026 to help inspire your next adventure.

Just for Smiles

April showers don’t just bring May flowers. They also bring plenty of opportunities for springtime napping.

That's all!

As always, if you have any insurance questions or simply want to check in on your coverage heading into spring, I am just a call or email away. Happy April!

How to Childproof Your Home: Safety Tips for New Parents

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:09:46 GMT

Bringing a new baby home is exciting, but it also means taking a fresh look at your living space through the eyes of a curious child. As babies grow and become more mobile, they naturally want to explore their environment. Everyday objects and furniture that once seemed harmless can become serious hazards. A few thoughtful changes now can make your home safer and give you peace of mind.

Secure Furniture and Heavy Items

Children love to pull, climb, and test their limits. That’s why it’s important to secure anything that could fall or tip over. Dressers, bookcases, and televisions should be anchored to the wall with brackets or straps. Avoid placing toys, remotes, and other tempting items on top of high furniture to prevent climbing. As part of your regular home maintenance routine, check those anchors to ensure they remain tight and stable.

Use Safety Gates and Latches

Safety gates are one of the most effective ways to limit access to danger zones. Install hardware-mounted gates at the top of stairways for the best security, and use pressure-mounted gates elsewhere. Latches on kitchen and bathroom cabinets help prevent access to sharp objects or cleaning supplies. Don’t overlook toilet lid locks, either. These simple tools can make a big difference as your child becomes more mobile.

Cover Electrical Outlets and Edges

Outlet covers are essential in any home with young children. Choose sliding or self-closing options to protect against curious fingers. For furniture with sharp edges, such as coffee tables or fireplace hearths, install corner protectors or padding. These precautions soften the impact if your child stumbles and reduce the risk of injury.

Watch for Small Objects and Choking Hazards

If an item can fit through a cardboard toilet paper roll, it’s a choking risk. Be vigilant about clearing small objects from floors, shelves, and tables, especially if you have older children with small toys or craft supplies. Designate a separate area for baby-safe toys and playtime, and teach siblings to store their items safely out of reach.

Lock Up Cleaning Supplies and Medications

Store all medications, vitamins, and household cleaners in cabinets or drawers that are locked or out of reach of small children. Even natural products can be dangerous if ingested. Choose strong childproof locks and avoid leaving these items out on countertops or open shelving. If possible, store hazardous items in a room that children do not have access to.

Don’t Forget About Windows and Doors

Install window stops or guards to limit how far windows can open. Move furniture away from windows to discourage climbing. Use door knob covers or locks to keep little ones from wandering into unsafe rooms. For added safety, place pinch guards on door hinges to protect small fingers from injury.

Make Your Home Safer and Smarter

Smart home technology can support your childproofing efforts. Motion-activated nightlights, smart door sensors, and baby monitors with video or audio features help parents stay aware of their child’s activity. While these tools don’t replace physical safety measures, they offer another layer of visibility and control that can be especially helpful for busy families.

Don’t Forget About Insurance

While you are taking steps to protect your home and family, it’s also worth reviewing your home insurance coverage. Life changes quickly, and your policy should reflect your current needs. Contact us today to schedule a policy review and ensure your home and loved ones are properly protected.

California Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Establish Smoke Damage Standards for Insurance Claims

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Recovery efforts following the devastating Los Angeles wildfires are now moving into the legislative phase, as California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and Assemblymember Mike Gipson have introduced the Smoke Damage Recovery Act, AB 1795. The measure would establish a statewide framework for handling wildfire smoke damage insurance claims, which officials say would be the first of its kind in the nation.

The legislation comes in response to an unprecedented period of wildfire destruction in California. The Eaton and Palisades fires in January 2025 destroyed thousands of homes and left many others standing but contaminated by smoke, soot, ash, and other hazardous combustion byproducts. From January through November 2025, more than 42,000 insurance claims were filed in connection with those fires, including more than 13,000 involving homes that remained structurally intact but sustained smoke damage.

AB 1795 is intended to create uniform standards for evaluating and restoring homes affected by wildfire smoke. Under the proposal, contaminated properties would be subject to proper inspection and remediation requirements so they can be returned to safe and habitable condition. The bill would also establish accountability measures for insurers that fail to meet those standards.

According to Commissioner Lara, the absence of consistent statewide standards has created significant challenges for families navigating the claims process.

“After devastating wildfires, families should not have to fight to prove their homes are unsafe,” Lara said. “Right now, the absence of statewide standards has created confusion, unfair claims handling, and uncertainty for families already coping with unimaginable losses. Consumer protection is my number one priority and we are working to establish clear rules so that homeowners are protected and survivors can safely move back into their restored homes knowing they do not face lifelong health risks.”

Assemblymember Gipson said the legislation is aimed at making recovery more straightforward for policyholders in the aftermath of wildfire events.

“After a wildfire, recovery should not depend on a homeowner’s ability to navigate complex insurance disputes while their life is already turned upside down,” Gipson said. “More than a year after the most devastating fires Los Angeles has ever seen, there is no reason to delay. I am dedicated to swift passage of AB 1795, the Smoke Damage Recovery Act, to pave the way for a better process that insurance policyholders can rely upon.”

The proposal follows the release of a report from the California Department of Insurance’s Smoke Claims and Remediation Task Force, a nine-month initiative that brought together public health experts, fire safety professionals, smoke remediation specialists, industrial hygienists, consumer advocates, and representatives from the insurance industry.

The task force found that wildfire survivors currently face notable gaps in the inspection, testing, and restoration of smoke-damaged homes. Participants agreed that statewide standards would provide clearer guidance for insurers and improve safety outcomes for homeowners.

Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders and a member of the task force, said consistent standards are essential to reducing disputes over smoke-damage claims.

“People who paid for insurance protection, then had their homes contaminated by wildfire smoke and debris, deserve to have their homes restored to pre-loss condition, not be mired in delays, costly disputes, stress and frustration,” Bach said. “This bill will pave the way for critically needed indoor air quality and remediation standards and claim handling protocols.”

The task force’s 64-page report included recommendations from wildfire survivor groups as well as a review of relevant scientific and technical research. It also identified areas of disagreement among experts and stakeholders over inspection and restoration practices, underscoring the Legislature’s role in establishing clear, enforceable standards through the public policymaking process.

If enacted, the Smoke Damage Recovery Act would introduce several key requirements for smoke damage claims and remediation. Among them, the bill would create statewide protocols for the inspection, sampling, and testing of smoke-related contaminants in residential properties; require insurers to follow consistent remediation standards aimed at restoring homes to pre-loss condition; prohibit insurers from terminating Additional Living Expense benefits until a home has been cleared as safe for habitation; require inspections of smoke damage claims within 30 days of notice; establish payment timelines to promote prompt claim disbursement; and create training and certification programs for professionals involved in smoke damage assessment, testing, and restoration.

The bill also includes an early-action provision allowing policyholders to rely immediately on any interior smoke testing, screening, or restoration standards issued by a state or local health or environmental agency in order to support and expedite their claims.

If passed, AB 1795 would direct multiple state agencies, including the California Environmental Protection Agency and the California Department of Insurance, to develop and enforce science-based guidance for wildfire smoke damage claims. Supporters say the bill, together with the task force recommendations, represents a significant step toward a more consistent and structured approach to smoke-damage recovery across California.

AB 1795 is expected to be heard next month after referral to an Assembly policy committee.

What to Keep in Your Car for Emergencies

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:48:02 GMT

Car trouble can strike when you least expect it. Whether you're facing a dead battery, flat tire, or unexpected weather, having the right gear in your vehicle can make a stressful situation more manageable. A well-stocked emergency kit can help you stay safe, comfortable, and in control while waiting for assistance or fixing the problem yourself. Here’s what every driver should keep on hand.

Basic Tools and Tire Repair Essentials

A flat tire is one of the most common roadside issues, so your emergency kit should include everything needed to fix it or safely wait for help. At a minimum, you should have a spare tire (fully inflated), a jack, and a lug wrench. If your car didn’t come with a full spare, consider a tire inflator or sealant that can provide a temporary fix.

A tire pressure gauge and a portable air compressor are also useful, especially for long drives or seasonal weather changes that affect tire inflation. Keep these items in an accessible spot, ideally near your vehicle’s trunk or under the cargo floor, so you’re not digging for them in a pinch.

Jumper Cables or a Battery Jump Starter

Dead batteries don’t always give warnings. Jumper cables are essential, but they only work if another vehicle is available to help. A portable battery jump starter gives you the ability to handle a dead battery on your own. Look for one with built-in safety features, like reverse polarity protection and USB ports, so you can also charge your phone in an emergency. If you’re not familiar with how to jump a car, keep a small instruction card in your glovebox or save a step-by-step guide on your phone.

Seasonal Items

If you break down in freezing temperatures or get stranded during a winter storm, staying warm is essential. Keep a thermal space blanket or two in your trunk. These lightweight emergency blankets reflect body heat and take up very little room. You can also include an extra coat, a pair of gloves, a wool cap, and a packable poncho or raincoat for staying dry and warm.

Non-perishable snacks like energy bars, trail mix, or crackers can help in long delays. Add a reusable water bottle and keep it filled on long trips. In extreme cold, rotate the water regularly to avoid freezing. If you live in a snowy climate, it’s also smart to carry an ice scraper, folding shovel, and a small bag of sand or kitty litter for traction.

All-Season Convenience Items

In addition to seasonal gear, every emergency kit should have a few year-round essentials. A basic first-aid kit is a must, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. A multi-tool or utility knife can come in handy for small fixes or opening packages. A flashlight is helpful for inspecting under the hood or signaling for help.

Include phone charging cables, a portable power bank, and a small notepad with a pen. If you ever need to leave a note or record details from an accident, you’ll be glad you have them. Duct tape, zip ties, and a small roll of paper towels or rags can solve dozens of small issues.

Don’t Forget the Insurance

You don’t need to go overboard with gear, but a well-stocked emergency kit gives you peace of mind and practical help when it matters most. Check your supplies at least twice a year and adjust them based on seasonal needs or upcoming travel plans.

While you're reviewing what’s in your trunk, it’s also worth reviewing your auto insurance coverage. Having the right policy can reduce the financial stress of unexpected events and can even provide you with roadside assistance when you need it. Contact us today to make sure your auto insurance is up to date and built to support the way you drive.

Allco Newsletter March 2026

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:27:54 GMT

March Newsletter

Hello March

Happy March! This month's update brings you helpful advice, timely insights, and resources you need to know as spring approaches.

What's included: Staying safe this spring break, International Women's Day, Dave's Corner, and March Madness predictions.

Spring Break Safety Reminders

If you’re among the millions of Americans taking a spring break vacation, here are a few reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe while making the most of vacation:

Stay alert on the road. Traffic incidents spike during spring break due to long road trips, distracted driving, and fatigue. If you are driving, be sure to plan breaks, switch drivers (if traveling with a group), and avoid traveling overnight when possible.
Keep your hotel room secure. Lock doors and windows, avoid sharing your room number, and store valuables in the safe. A portable doorstop alarm is a small but powerful tool for added peace of mind.
Practice water safety. Seventy percent of water-related deaths involve alcohol. When in or on the water, be sure to wear life vests and drink responsibly. Additionally, if you are staying in an accommodation with a pool, be sure to lock all doors leading to the pool and securely close any gates around it.
Use the buddy system. If you are traveling with friends or family, it may be wise to set up a buddy system, where everyone in your group has a dedicated exploring partner. Additionally, it can be wise to choose a meeting spot where your group can gather in case of an emergency. If you are traveling alone, be sure to check in regularly with loved ones and plan how you will communicate.
Protect your privacy. Wait until you are home to post vacation updates on social media. Broadcasting your location while you are away can make your home a target for break-ins.

If you have any questions about auto insurance, travel insurance, or other coverage-related matters, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Save the Dates

Mark Your Calendar

Here are a few key dates and reminders to keep in mind this month.

March 8th is the start of Daylight Saving Time. Spring forward and remember: While we may be temporarily losing an hour of sleep, we’re gaining an extra hour of sunlight!
March 8th is International Women's Day. A global celebration of women's achievements in history, culture, and politics. Take a moment to recognize and appreciate the women who've made a difference in your life.
March 14th is International Day of Mathematics (and Pi Day!). Celebrate the beauty of numbers on 3/14, and maybe enjoy some pie while you're at it.
March 17th is St. Patrick's Day. Whether you're Irish or just Irish for the day, enjoy the festivities! If you're hosting or attending celebrations, remember to arrange safe transportation if you'll be drinking.
March 21st is National Flower Day. Spring officially arrives this month, and National Flower Day celebrates the season's blooms. Brighten someone's day (or your own!) with fresh flowers.
March 24th is American Diabetes Alert Day. Observed on the fourth Tuesday of March, this day raises awareness about diabetes risks and symptoms. The American Diabetes Association offers free risk assessments online.

Dave's Corner

14 Best Work-From-Home Jobs You Can Apply for Today

Key Takeaways

Work-from-home jobs offer flexibility and eliminate commuting.
Common remote roles include customer service, virtual assistance, freelance writing and tech support.
Watch out for work-from-home scams.
If you’re considering remote work, first ask yourself if it will fit your personality, home environment and lifestyle.

2025 Grand Prize Referral Winner

Thank you to everyone who has referred us to your friends and family! Each referral you send gives you an entry into our monthly drawing and our year-end grand prize drawing—just like Irma Pedroza, our 2025 winner. Click here to watch the video of our grand prize winner.

Your referrals mean a great deal to us and to Stripes of a Warrior. In addition to the drawings, for every referral you send to Allco Fullerton Insurance that results in a written policy, we donate to Stripes of a Warrior—a cause we proudly support. They provide financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with cancer who are struggling to cover housing, medical bills, medications, or food expenses—truly a win-win for everyone.

Send your referrals today by calling 714-992-2390 or visiting www.ReferAllco.com for more information. Thanks again!

Article Round-Up

March Article Round-Up

We've gathered a few timely reads to keep you informed and entertained this March:

Get your March plans in order with an overview of the Men's NCAA tournament schedule and dates.
The Oscars are on March 15th! Check out From Jay Kelly to Wicked 2: the Oscar-primed films that fizzled this season from The Guardian.
Feeling festive? Explore 52 St. Patrick's Day Recipes You'll Want to Make Year-Round from Food Network for culinary inspiration.
Don't forget to spring forward! Read key takeaways about Daylight Saving Time from USA Today.
Baseball fans, get ready for Opening Day with Predicting Every MLB Team's 2026 Opening Day Lineup, Version 3.0 from Bleacher Report.

Just for Smiles

With spring arriving on March 20th, consider this the allergy sufferer’s reminder to grab some Kleenex…

That's all!

As always, if you have any insurance questions or want to review your coverage this month, we’re just a call or email away.

2025 Referral Grand Prize Winner Drawing

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Thank you to everyone who has referred your friends and family to Allco Fullerton Insurance—we’re truly grateful for your trust and support! Every referral you send not only gives you a chance to win our monthly drawing and our year-end GRAND PRIZE (just like Irma Pedroza did in 2025), but it also helps us give back to a cause we care deeply about: Stripes of a Warrior. For every referral that becomes a policy with us, we donate $10 to Stripes of a Warrior, which provides financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with cancer who need help with housing, medical bills, medications, and food expenses. Please keep the referrals coming by calling us at 714-992-2390 or visiting www.ReferAllco.com - thank you again for helping us support our community!