USAF – This Day in History

On this day in 1947 the United States Air Force was established as one of the eight uniformed services, independent and equal to the Army and Navy. Serving as the aerial warfare branch, the USAF was created by President Truman when he signed the National Security Act demanding that a new form of defense be made. Since then it has become the 2nd largest service branch with over 500,000 enlisted.

Also, fun fact about the air force…they serve as the official Santa tracker during Christmas Eve.

So to all the airmen, past, current and future, we thank you for your service.

Switching Mid-Term Made Easy

Are you looking to save a few more dollars before the mayhem of Christmas shopping and black Friday deals? Well then, we have the solution for you and there’s no reason to wait.
Give us a call to get your new homeowners insurance quote and see how much you can save. Even if you have an existing policy that hasn’t expired or is in the middle of its term, you can simply cancel and get a refund. We would be more than happy to help you switch and save.

If you prefer to speak to a sales representative about getting a quote or on how to switch carriers mid-term, please call us at 877-WMUTUAL (877-968-8825), extension 5344. Available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST/PDT.

Prepare Your Home for Rainy Days

It’s time to get your home in shape for the rainy days with a simple checklist that’ll leave you feeling safeguarded and ready. With rain storms being one of the leading causes for property damage and insurance claims, we urge that you follow the suggestions given by Ready.gov – the official site for Homeland Security.

  • Create a perimeter around your home by cutting down and pruning trees or branches which could fall on your home.
  • Reinforce the fences surrounding your property and secure any outdoor furniture if it cannot be brought in.
  • Always make sure to clean gutters and drains of any leaves or clutter.
  • Check the sealant on your windows and doors and apply where drafts are felt.

We hope this easy to-do guide for rainy day prep will help you protect your home.

Patriot Day – Remembering 9/11

It’s been 19 years since the tragedy of losing nearly 3000 American lives from coordinated attacks against the United States. As the world woke up that Tuesday morning, none of us knew how our world would change and be affected by September 11, 2001.

The following year, Patriot Day was established in observance for the lives lost including those of the first responders. Although it’s not a federal holiday, several ceremonies are held in commemoration as it’s a day that we will never forget.

“No day shall erase you from the memory of time” –Virgil

NFL Celebrating 101 Seasons

Pending developments from the current Covid-19 pandemic, the National Football League is scheduled to begin its season tomorrow, September 10th with defending Super Bowl LIV champs Kansas City taking on the Houston Texans. Although the season may be different than the past 100 years, it’s sure to be a memorable one.

The NFL is set for the projected season with new stadiums opening just in time for kick-off, a shortened season and retrofitted locker rooms where limited to no media will be allowed. As it stands now, no fans will be allowed in the stadiums per government protocol as we all try to understand and navigate through this virus.

Known as America’s game, with over 114 million viewers each year, we have our fingers crossed that we can enjoy yet another season of this sport.

Labor Day

Today we celebrate and recognize the American Labor Movement and the contributions of workers everywhere whom fuel our economy and its development. This federal holiday was enacted over 125 years ago as a token of appreciation, giving all laborers an additional day of rest. So from all of us here at Western Mutual, we want to say thank you for your contributions and hard work. Enjoy today and Happy Labor Day 2020!   

Simply, Thank you

sept 4 thanks wm

The say the best compliment a company can receive is a referral to your family and friends. As a regional, mutual insurance carrier we know that word of mouth and positive feedback is what keeps us going and growing. The following are testimonies our customers shared with us and we would like to share them with you.

“I will highly recommend Western Mutual to family and friends in the future as I already have. Very good company and made a horrible experience of being burglarized, a lot easier to deal with.” – Dorian E., CA

“When we’re talking peace of mind, I’m so happy that I’m a Western Mutual policy holder. Not only are your rates very affordable, your service is second to none. Just simply thanks for being there…” – Richard H., TX

It’s been our pleasure protecting homeowners like you for over 75 years.

Prepare Your Home for a Wildfire

sept 2 fire prep

In California, fall season is fire season. With an average of 5,000 wildfires happening each year in the golden state, we must all be prepared and have an action plan ready.

The following suggestions are from readyforwildfire.org which explain the 5 steps one can take to help protect your home and family.

  • Create a defensible space around your home. Try to keep brush, trees or landscaping at least 100 feet away from the sides of your home. This allows emergency crews to safely and adequately protect the structure.
  • Make your home as fire-resistant as possible. Concrete, brick and tile are all ember resistant building materials. As far as plants go…roses, honeysuckle shrubs and cherry trees are more resistant to fire than others.
  • Put together an emergency kit now. This kit must include everything from face coverings, battery operated radios/flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable foods that will last three days, medications, change of clothes and legal documents like your birth certificate.
  • Write an action plan. This action plan assigns each person a responsibility they’ll have if you’re being evacuated. The easiest way to ensure a fast and safe departure is to make sure all household members have a copy of the list and know their role.
  • Let family, friends or neighbors know where you plan on going. Check-in frequently and secure a safe shelter outside of the evacuation zone.

For more tips on how to prepare for a wildfire please visit www.readyforwildfire.org

Protect Against Home Repair Scams

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When a storm, wildfire, or theft strikes your home, we want to help alleviate additional stressors not only with the claim process, but also with your home repairs.  While most contractors and vendors are honest, helpful, and provide excellent work and service, it is important to watch for cons, bad repairs, and insurance fraud.  This could result in anything from subpar repairs, excessive damage to your home to inflate claim payments, or disappearing with your down payment without having completed the work.

Here are some ways to protect yourself.

  • Call your insurance first and report the claim.  We can get the claim process started, and offer contractor referrals if you would like one.
  • Get a signed contract before work starts.
  • Check license and insurance information with your state.
  • Avoid door-knocking contractors… use established pros.
  • Have your Western Mutual adjuster review and approve the repairs before beginning the work for ease of process.
  • Take photos before and after, especially of any poorly done repairs.
  • Report any fraudulent behavior to the state.