The Allstate Blog » Cover Story http://blog.allstate.com Expert tips and fun facts on protecting your car, home, motorcycle or RV from Allstate Auto Insurance Thu, 20 Jun 2013 11:01:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 Parents: Help Your New Grad Manage That Graduation Gift Money http://blog.allstate.com/parents-help-your-new-grad-manage-that-graduation-gift-money/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=parents-help-your-new-grad-manage-that-graduation-gift-money http://blog.allstate.com/parents-help-your-new-grad-manage-that-graduation-gift-money/#comments Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:59:00 +0000 Brendan http://blog.allstate.com/?p=4922 Graduation group

Finally, it's official: After years of studying, sacrificing and possibly incurring student debt, your kid has (finally!) graduated from college. In honor of this milestone, you've organized a party for your new grad. Most of the presents are graduation gift money with the exception of the gift from his new favorite relative, who couldn't make the get-together.  He sends a card along saying as an alternative to money, he’s going to pay your kid's cable bill for the next year. As a parent, what advice should you give to your new graduate for what to do with all this money? Chances are, after four years of higher education, your child wants to reward him or herself by purchasing something special. However, it's wise not to spend it all on one luxury item. While there's nothing wrong with a reward, say a new TV, a computer or a vacation, why not take some of the money and put it to work for the future? Here are some tips you can pass along for saving money and making investments: Pay Off Debt It's no secret that a college diploma is expensive. Two-thirds of graduates take out loans, with the average American student's debt topping more than $23,000. Using graduation money to pay off some portion of college loans or credit card debts may be the smartest way for a new grad to celebrate their newfound independence. Secure Transportation They’re probably not going to buy a house fresh out of college, but investing in and maintaining a reliable vehicle is a possibility. Although public transportation is an option in some major metropolitan areas, still nearly 80 percent of Americans drive to work. If your graduate puts money aside to buy a car or keep it in good working shape, then they could be making an investment with huge dividends if they do secure a job requiring a car to commute to work. Save for the Future If investing graduation money is an option, your son or daughter will need to have a financial plan in mind. In other words, you should help them do some research before making a decision that could tie up their money or cause them to lose a good percentage of it to penalties or depreciation. There are numerous investment ideas to choose from. Traditional forms of savings, such as Treasury Bonds and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), may not give them the yield or freedom to access their money that they’d like. And blindly investing in the stock market can be a dangerous game if you (or they) don’t know what they’re doing.

Are you a big spender? Click to visit the Allstate Priorities Sweepstakes, choose the video that most closely matches your spending habits, and you could win $2,500

While opening a mutual fund with an investment company used to require an initial investment of several thousand dollars, today several fund companies in pursuit of younger investors have decreased their initial investment minimum to $1,000.  Don’t be afraid to ask for financial advice from a bank or employer if it's offered. Listen to the professionals and then help your son or daughter decide how they want to save. Retirement Plans Chances are, they’ve just finished up classes and have only recently begun interviewing for their first big job, so a retirement plan is probably the farthest thing from their mind. However, it's never too early to start planning.  According to Gallup's Annual Economy and Personal Finance survey, workers in the 1990s expected to retire at 60. Today, most workers don't expect to retire until they're 67. If your new grad wants to retire at any age, they're going to need a retirement plan they can count on. Once they’ve landed a job, they should consider putting some of their salary—and even graduation money—into an employer sponsored 401(k), or open their own IRA. Though retirement may seem like a distant dream, help them talk to their (your) tax preparer to find out how much sense it makes to begin putting some pre-tax money aside. You’ll both be one step closer to the golf green of your retirement dreams. How your fully-grown children use, save or invest graduation money can have a positive impact on post-college life. Whether it's paying off student loans, saving for a car or opening a mutual fund, help your son or daughter choose the option with a payoff that fits their foreseeable future.]]> Graduation group

Finally, it's official: After years of studying, sacrificing and possibly incurring student debt, your kid has (finally!) graduated from college. In honor of this milestone, you've organized a party for your new grad. Most of the presents are graduation gift money with the exception of the gift from his new favorite relative, who couldn't make the get-together.  He sends a card along saying as an alternative to money, he’s going to pay your kid's cable bill for the next year. As a parent, what advice should you give to your new graduate for what to do with all this money? Chances are, after four years of higher education, your child wants to reward him or herself by purchasing something special. However, it's wise not to spend it all on one luxury item. While there's nothing wrong with a reward, say a new TV, a computer or a vacation, why not take some of the money and put it to work for the future? Here are some tips you can pass along for saving money and making investments: Pay Off Debt It's no secret that a college diploma is expensive. Two-thirds of graduates take out loans, with the average American student's debt topping more than $23,000. Using graduation money to pay off some portion of college loans or credit card debts may be the smartest way for a new grad to celebrate their newfound independence. Secure Transportation They’re probably not going to buy a house fresh out of college, but investing in and maintaining a reliable vehicle is a possibility. Although public transportation is an option in some major metropolitan areas, still nearly 80 percent of Americans drive to work. If your graduate puts money aside to buy a car or keep it in good working shape, then they could be making an investment with huge dividends if they do secure a job requiring a car to commute to work. Save for the Future If investing graduation money is an option, your son or daughter will need to have a financial plan in mind. In other words, you should help them do some research before making a decision that could tie up their money or cause them to lose a good percentage of it to penalties or depreciation. There are numerous investment ideas to choose from. Traditional forms of savings, such as Treasury Bonds and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), may not give them the yield or freedom to access their money that they’d like. And blindly investing in the stock market can be a dangerous game if you (or they) don’t know what they’re doing.

Are you a big spender? Click to visit the Allstate Priorities Sweepstakes, choose the video that most closely matches your spending habits, and you could win $2,500

While opening a mutual fund with an investment company used to require an initial investment of several thousand dollars, today several fund companies in pursuit of younger investors have decreased their initial investment minimum to $1,000.  Don’t be afraid to ask for financial advice from a bank or employer if it's offered. Listen to the professionals and then help your son or daughter decide how they want to save. Retirement Plans Chances are, they’ve just finished up classes and have only recently begun interviewing for their first big job, so a retirement plan is probably the farthest thing from their mind. However, it's never too early to start planning.  According to Gallup's Annual Economy and Personal Finance survey, workers in the 1990s expected to retire at 60. Today, most workers don't expect to retire until they're 67. If your new grad wants to retire at any age, they're going to need a retirement plan they can count on. Once they’ve landed a job, they should consider putting some of their salary—and even graduation money—into an employer sponsored 401(k), or open their own IRA. Though retirement may seem like a distant dream, help them talk to their (your) tax preparer to find out how much sense it makes to begin putting some pre-tax money aside. You’ll both be one step closer to the golf green of your retirement dreams. How your fully-grown children use, save or invest graduation money can have a positive impact on post-college life. Whether it's paying off student loans, saving for a car or opening a mutual fund, help your son or daughter choose the option with a payoff that fits their foreseeable future.]]> http://blog.allstate.com/parents-help-your-new-grad-manage-that-graduation-gift-money/feed/ 0 Everything You Want to Know About: Wildfire Preparedness http://blog.allstate.com/everything-you-want-to-know-about-wildfire-preparedness-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=everything-you-want-to-know-about-wildfire-preparedness-2 http://blog.allstate.com/everything-you-want-to-know-about-wildfire-preparedness-2/#comments Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:35:07 +0000 Melissa http://blog.allstate.com/?p=2921 Wildfire-Fireman-iStock

Tens of thousands of U.S. wildfires burn each year, consuming millions of acres in their paths – and they don’t care if your house is in the way. In 2009 alone, more than 78,000 wildfires were reported across the nation, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. If you live in an area prone to wildfires – which can start with something as small as a discarded cigarette or a spark falling from an ATV onto dry vegetation – being in the know about wildfire preparedness measures could help safeguard your property – and even your life. [slideshow]]]> Wildfire-Fireman-iStock

Tens of thousands of U.S. wildfires burn each year, consuming millions of acres in their paths – and they don’t care if your house is in the way. In 2009 alone, more than 78,000 wildfires were reported across the nation, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. If you live in an area prone to wildfires – which can start with something as small as a discarded cigarette or a spark falling from an ATV onto dry vegetation – being in the know about wildfire preparedness measures could help safeguard your property – and even your life. [slideshow]]]> http://blog.allstate.com/everything-you-want-to-know-about-wildfire-preparedness-2/feed/ 0 Deconstructing High Gas Prices http://blog.allstate.com/deconstructing-high-gas-prices/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=deconstructing-high-gas-prices http://blog.allstate.com/deconstructing-high-gas-prices/#comments Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:06:34 +0000 Jen http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2012/06/11/effects-of-high-gas-costs High Gas Prices

Every driver has been there: You pull up to the pump, swipe your credit card and then recoil from the final cost of filling up your tank.
Our wallets are feeling the strain of increased fuel costs, but what exactly are we paying for when our cars guzzle up gallons of gas? And how does the rising price of gas spill over into the costs of other products?

The Basics

Ken Cohen at Exxon Mobile's Perspectives blog breaks down exactly what we're paying for in a gallon of gasoline, beginning with the cost of raw materials. As you might expect, the cost of crude oil is the biggest single expense in a gallon of gas. That Perspectives post breaks down the component costs of a gallon of gas that costs $3.27. (According to the Gas Price Locator, as of June 12, 2013, the national average is up to $3.57 per gallon). Of that amount, a hefty $2.55 goes toward crude oil, which then needs to be refined. That's why in the long term, the biggest hope for mitigating gas costs is innovations in fuel-efficient vehicles. Of course, you could just sit at home all day doing nothing and save big. But for those who need to head out onto the open road, fuel-efficient vehicles are the best bet for your wallet. According to that Perspectives post, the cost of covering taxes amounts to (on average) another 39 cents, while distributing and marketing the product adds 33 cents to the price tag.

The Trickle-Down Effect

The shipping industry feels the pinch more than most, and the increased cost of fuel is often passed on to consumers.
Rising gas costs don't just affect us at the pump. The shipping industry feels the pinch more than most, and the increased cost of fuel is often passed on to consumers. Brandon Gale of Retail Shipping Associates told the New York Times in 2011 that the clock was ticking on how long it would be before high gas prices filtered down to customers. UPS spokesman Dan McMackin went a step further, directly telling the International Business Times that high gas costs were reflected in the increased prices of their services. You're paying more to get a package delivered than you were a few years ago, and that increase is mostly due to the price hikes at your local gas station. Moreover, stores that  need to pay more to get their products shipped -- everything from groceries to electronics -- raise prices, in turn, to recoup those costs. It's not all bad news: A recent Forbes report claims we’re in better shape to withstand rising gas prices this year, citing a strengthening economy and a recovering job market to help soften the blow. Still, those eBay bargains you're eyeing will be pricey to ship.

Take a Look Around

To get an idea of how much you're paying for gas relative to other products, it's worth using this comparison tool provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here, the average consumer price for a number of products is provided, including a gallon of gas, a loaf of bread, a dozen eggs, and even a whole chicken. According to that data, a gallon of milk cost an average of $3.428 in April 2013, compared to $3.59 for a gallon of regular unleaded in the same month. Unfortunately you can't (yet) power your vehicle by milk. In contrast to those figures, water costs much less per gallon. Detroit residents, for example, pay about a penny for 5 gallons of tap water; in Madison, Wis.,  1,000 gallons of water cost about $2.81. Now all we have to do is wait for the first water-fueled car to come along so we can take to the highway with a lot less stress on our minds.
]]> High Gas Prices

Every driver has been there: You pull up to the pump, swipe your credit card and then recoil from the final cost of filling up your tank.
Our wallets are feeling the strain of increased fuel costs, but what exactly are we paying for when our cars guzzle up gallons of gas? And how does the rising price of gas spill over into the costs of other products?

The Basics

Ken Cohen at Exxon Mobile's Perspectives blog breaks down exactly what we're paying for in a gallon of gasoline, beginning with the cost of raw materials. As you might expect, the cost of crude oil is the biggest single expense in a gallon of gas. That Perspectives post breaks down the component costs of a gallon of gas that costs $3.27. (According to the Gas Price Locator, as of June 12, 2013, the national average is up to $3.57 per gallon). Of that amount, a hefty $2.55 goes toward crude oil, which then needs to be refined. That's why in the long term, the biggest hope for mitigating gas costs is innovations in fuel-efficient vehicles. Of course, you could just sit at home all day doing nothing and save big. But for those who need to head out onto the open road, fuel-efficient vehicles are the best bet for your wallet. According to that Perspectives post, the cost of covering taxes amounts to (on average) another 39 cents, while distributing and marketing the product adds 33 cents to the price tag.

The Trickle-Down Effect

The shipping industry feels the pinch more than most, and the increased cost of fuel is often passed on to consumers.
Rising gas costs don't just affect us at the pump. The shipping industry feels the pinch more than most, and the increased cost of fuel is often passed on to consumers. Brandon Gale of Retail Shipping Associates told the New York Times in 2011 that the clock was ticking on how long it would be before high gas prices filtered down to customers. UPS spokesman Dan McMackin went a step further, directly telling the International Business Times that high gas costs were reflected in the increased prices of their services. You're paying more to get a package delivered than you were a few years ago, and that increase is mostly due to the price hikes at your local gas station. Moreover, stores that  need to pay more to get their products shipped -- everything from groceries to electronics -- raise prices, in turn, to recoup those costs. It's not all bad news: A recent Forbes report claims we’re in better shape to withstand rising gas prices this year, citing a strengthening economy and a recovering job market to help soften the blow. Still, those eBay bargains you're eyeing will be pricey to ship.

Take a Look Around

To get an idea of how much you're paying for gas relative to other products, it's worth using this comparison tool provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here, the average consumer price for a number of products is provided, including a gallon of gas, a loaf of bread, a dozen eggs, and even a whole chicken. According to that data, a gallon of milk cost an average of $3.428 in April 2013, compared to $3.59 for a gallon of regular unleaded in the same month. Unfortunately you can't (yet) power your vehicle by milk. In contrast to those figures, water costs much less per gallon. Detroit residents, for example, pay about a penny for 5 gallons of tap water; in Madison, Wis.,  1,000 gallons of water cost about $2.81. Now all we have to do is wait for the first water-fueled car to come along so we can take to the highway with a lot less stress on our minds.
]]> http://blog.allstate.com/deconstructing-high-gas-prices/feed/ 0 5 Ways to Landscape for Hurricane Preparedness http://blog.allstate.com/landscape-for-hurricane-protection/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=landscape-for-hurricane-protection http://blog.allstate.com/landscape-for-hurricane-protection/#comments Mon, 03 Jun 2013 11:02:39 +0000 Pauline Hammerbeck http://blog.allstate.com/?p=4747 Hurricane Preparedness Landscaping

It may be difficult to entirely protect your home and yard from the strong winds of a hurricane, but there are certainly steps you can take to help minimize the damage. Here are five storm-wise landscaping tips to better prepare your property for a potential hurricane.

1. Choose salt-tolerant species.

Whether plants survived or died after Sandy last fall depended on their salt tolerance, according to an expert at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, who said inland gardeners normally unaccustomed to hurricanes experienced salt damage when the storm carried salt spray many miles inland. A local agriculture expert or cooperative extension office can help you choose species that are tolerant to salt on their stems, leaves and roots.

2. Plant the right trees, in the right places.

According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), some trees are prone to more storm damage than others. For example, trees that are shallow-rooted in soft soil have a tendency to topple over in high winds. The roots get pulled out of the ground. Carefully consider the type of tree you plant in your yard, but also where you site it: The South Florida Water Management District says storm-wise planting should consider the mature height of the tree to avoid future interference with fences, buildings or power lines.

3. Prune properly.

Thorough and frequent pruning will make your landscape look nice. But proper pruning is also a good way to prevent property damage in the event of a storm. IBHS suggests trimming dead, damaged or diseased tree limbs, and those that are too close to your home or near power lines. (Consider calling an expert for any work near a power line). Also, look around the yard for any cracked, hollow or decayed trees and have them removed to minimize the possibility of a strong storm uprooting them.

4. Use soft mulch.

If you have rock or pea gravel in your flower beds or along paths around your yard, IBHS suggests you consider replacing the materials with shredded bark or other soft mulch. In high winds, small rocks can become projectiles, often breaking windows or damaging the siding of the house. Shredded bark is softer and less dangerous if caught in the wind.

5. Minimize storm hazards.

If a tropical storm or hurricane is approaching, take care to bring anything that can be a potential wind hazard or projectile (toys, potted plants, lawn furniture, etc) inside. The South Florida Water Management District also suggests running a check of the yard to determine whether any debris in your swales or drainage systems might prevent water from flowing away from your property.   Recommended by the editors:    ]]> Hurricane Preparedness Landscaping

It may be difficult to entirely protect your home and yard from the strong winds of a hurricane, but there are certainly steps you can take to help minimize the damage. Here are five storm-wise landscaping tips to better prepare your property for a potential hurricane.

1. Choose salt-tolerant species.

Whether plants survived or died after Sandy last fall depended on their salt tolerance, according to an expert at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, who said inland gardeners normally unaccustomed to hurricanes experienced salt damage when the storm carried salt spray many miles inland. A local agriculture expert or cooperative extension office can help you choose species that are tolerant to salt on their stems, leaves and roots.

2. Plant the right trees, in the right places.

According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), some trees are prone to more storm damage than others. For example, trees that are shallow-rooted in soft soil have a tendency to topple over in high winds. The roots get pulled out of the ground. Carefully consider the type of tree you plant in your yard, but also where you site it: The South Florida Water Management District says storm-wise planting should consider the mature height of the tree to avoid future interference with fences, buildings or power lines.

3. Prune properly.

Thorough and frequent pruning will make your landscape look nice. But proper pruning is also a good way to prevent property damage in the event of a storm. IBHS suggests trimming dead, damaged or diseased tree limbs, and those that are too close to your home or near power lines. (Consider calling an expert for any work near a power line). Also, look around the yard for any cracked, hollow or decayed trees and have them removed to minimize the possibility of a strong storm uprooting them.

4. Use soft mulch.

If you have rock or pea gravel in your flower beds or along paths around your yard, IBHS suggests you consider replacing the materials with shredded bark or other soft mulch. In high winds, small rocks can become projectiles, often breaking windows or damaging the siding of the house. Shredded bark is softer and less dangerous if caught in the wind.

5. Minimize storm hazards.

If a tropical storm or hurricane is approaching, take care to bring anything that can be a potential wind hazard or projectile (toys, potted plants, lawn furniture, etc) inside. The South Florida Water Management District also suggests running a check of the yard to determine whether any debris in your swales or drainage systems might prevent water from flowing away from your property.   Recommended by the editors:    ]]> http://blog.allstate.com/landscape-for-hurricane-protection/feed/ 0 Renters: Why You Need a Home Inventory [INFOGRAPHIC] http://blog.allstate.com/renters-why-you-need-a-home-inventory/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=renters-why-you-need-a-home-inventory http://blog.allstate.com/renters-why-you-need-a-home-inventory/#comments Fri, 31 May 2013 08:00:55 +0000 Brendan http://blog.allstate.com/?p=4637 Rent-House-iStock

Renters of both apartments and homes have similar concerns regarding safety, security and protecting their stuff. Some disasters can be prevented; others can seem inevitable. Either way, a home inventory can offer all types of renters peace of mind. Our infographic below illustrates some of the benefits and concerns of the renters who participated in our Home Inventory survey. [infographic]]]> Rent-House-iStock

Renters of both apartments and homes have similar concerns regarding safety, security and protecting their stuff. Some disasters can be prevented; others can seem inevitable. Either way, a home inventory can offer all types of renters peace of mind. Our infographic below illustrates some of the benefits and concerns of the renters who participated in our Home Inventory survey. [infographic]]]> http://blog.allstate.com/renters-why-you-need-a-home-inventory/feed/ 0 Slow Down to Help Save Money http://blog.allstate.com/slow-down-to-help-save-money/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=slow-down-to-help-save-money http://blog.allstate.com/slow-down-to-help-save-money/#comments Tue, 28 May 2013 11:00:03 +0000 Joe Campanella, CARCHEX http://blog.allstate.com/?p=4773 Car Under Blue Sky

With gasoline prices climbing higher as we head into the summer driving season, drivers are looking for ways to save money at the pump. Both energy and auto experts agree on a key piece of simple advice for motorists looking to save money: Slow down.

Simple solutions such as watching your speed combined with regular car maintenance can help boost your fuel efficiency so you spend less on gas. Here are the most important things to keep in mind to help keep your gas budget in check.

Speed

Ease up on the gas pedal. Brake gently and try not to accelerate too quickly. Your driving behavior can heavily affect your car’s fuel consumption. Observing the speed limit and not exceeding 60 mph (where legally allowed) can improve mileage by as much as 23 percent.

Brakes

Riding with your foot on the brake pedal will wear out brake pads, which can cost you at the maintenance shop. Braking carefully and accelerating evenly can improve fuel economy and save you from a trip to the maintenance shop.

Idling

Besides causing pollution, idling wastes gas. If stopped for more than 30 seconds, turn off the engine. Also, don't bother to "warm up" your car before driving – it’s not really necessary.

Tires

Properly Inflated TiresKeeping tires properly inflated helps save at least 15 cents per gallon and can provide a total miles-per-gallon increase of 3.3 percent, according to Fueleconomy.gov. The proper tire pressure recommendation is usually found on the panel inside the vehicle's driver's side door or in the owner's manual.

In addition to tire pressure, poor alignment not only causes tires to wear out more quickly, but also forces your engine to work harder. Keeping your tires properly aligned may help save you money at the pump, as well. 

Maintenance

Overall car maintenance is also important for fuel efficiency. Nearly one in four cars needs an air filter replacement. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent.

Using the recommended grade of motor oil and changing it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles could also save you 1 to 2 percent on gasoline. Regular oil changes and making sure your engine is running properly will save a lot of money in the long run.

Following these simple tips can help you reduce the amount of money you spend at the pump each time you fill up. So, remember to slow down and keep your car well-maintained to save gas and money.

Joe Campanella is the EVP of business development at CARCHEX. Headquartered in Hunt Valley, Md.,CARCHEX is the premier provider of Extended Auto Warranties and Mobile Vehicle Inspections. CARCHEX is the preferred partner to the most trusted names in the automotive industry, including Pat Goss of TV’s MotorWeek, Carfax and Kelley Blue Book. You can read their automotive blog here.

]]> Car Under Blue Sky

With gasoline prices climbing higher as we head into the summer driving season, drivers are looking for ways to save money at the pump. Both energy and auto experts agree on a key piece of simple advice for motorists looking to save money: Slow down.

Simple solutions such as watching your speed combined with regular car maintenance can help boost your fuel efficiency so you spend less on gas. Here are the most important things to keep in mind to help keep your gas budget in check.

Speed

Ease up on the gas pedal. Brake gently and try not to accelerate too quickly. Your driving behavior can heavily affect your car’s fuel consumption. Observing the speed limit and not exceeding 60 mph (where legally allowed) can improve mileage by as much as 23 percent.

Brakes

Riding with your foot on the brake pedal will wear out brake pads, which can cost you at the maintenance shop. Braking carefully and accelerating evenly can improve fuel economy and save you from a trip to the maintenance shop.

Idling

Besides causing pollution, idling wastes gas. If stopped for more than 30 seconds, turn off the engine. Also, don't bother to "warm up" your car before driving – it’s not really necessary.

Tires

Properly Inflated TiresKeeping tires properly inflated helps save at least 15 cents per gallon and can provide a total miles-per-gallon increase of 3.3 percent, according to Fueleconomy.gov. The proper tire pressure recommendation is usually found on the panel inside the vehicle's driver's side door or in the owner's manual.

In addition to tire pressure, poor alignment not only causes tires to wear out more quickly, but also forces your engine to work harder. Keeping your tires properly aligned may help save you money at the pump, as well. 

Maintenance

Overall car maintenance is also important for fuel efficiency. Nearly one in four cars needs an air filter replacement. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent.

Using the recommended grade of motor oil and changing it every 3,000 to 5,000 miles could also save you 1 to 2 percent on gasoline. Regular oil changes and making sure your engine is running properly will save a lot of money in the long run.

Following these simple tips can help you reduce the amount of money you spend at the pump each time you fill up. So, remember to slow down and keep your car well-maintained to save gas and money.

Joe Campanella is the EVP of business development at CARCHEX. Headquartered in Hunt Valley, Md.,CARCHEX is the premier provider of Extended Auto Warranties and Mobile Vehicle Inspections. CARCHEX is the preferred partner to the most trusted names in the automotive industry, including Pat Goss of TV’s MotorWeek, Carfax and Kelley Blue Book. You can read their automotive blog here.

]]> http://blog.allstate.com/slow-down-to-help-save-money/feed/ 0 Storm Shelter? Safe Room? Build Your Own Ultimate Secure Shelter [INFOGRAPHIC] http://blog.allstate.com/safe-room-the-ultimate-secure-shelter-infographic/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=safe-room-the-ultimate-secure-shelter-infographic http://blog.allstate.com/safe-room-the-ultimate-secure-shelter-infographic/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 17:30:37 +0000 Brendan http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2011/12/07/be-safe-and-secure-in-your-home Emergency-Kit-iStock

Safety is a significant issue for every homeowner and eliminating unsafe situations inside the home should be a top priority. Proper installation and usage of electrical and gas lines, carbon dioxide and fire alarms, and window and door locks are all important for day-to-day home safety. But what about extreme conditions? Tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards and even home invasion are all examples of severe situations in which families may benefit from a safe room. What is a safe room? Simply put, a safe room is a secure, reinforced, well-stocked room where individuals can go to avoid the risks and potential dangers that may arise in other parts of a home. But how do you create a safe room in your house? Our infographic provides some ideas: [infographic]

]]> Emergency-Kit-iStock

Safety is a significant issue for every homeowner and eliminating unsafe situations inside the home should be a top priority. Proper installation and usage of electrical and gas lines, carbon dioxide and fire alarms, and window and door locks are all important for day-to-day home safety. But what about extreme conditions? Tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards and even home invasion are all examples of severe situations in which families may benefit from a safe room. What is a safe room? Simply put, a safe room is a secure, reinforced, well-stocked room where individuals can go to avoid the risks and potential dangers that may arise in other parts of a home. But how do you create a safe room in your house? Our infographic provides some ideas: [infographic]

]]> http://blog.allstate.com/safe-room-the-ultimate-secure-shelter-infographic/feed/ 28 Fuel Your Grill with Man Power [VIDEO] http://blog.allstate.com/fuel-your-grill-with-man-power-video/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fuel-your-grill-with-man-power-video http://blog.allstate.com/fuel-your-grill-with-man-power-video/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 17:15:34 +0000 Brendan http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2012/06/05/ted-and-traci-grillmeister-7000-video Grillmeister

In Episode 5 of our web series The UnReal Adventures of Ted and Traci, our heroes are enjoying the warm summer weather. Ted fires up his gas grill for a nice outdoor meal, but only after he’s “improved” it. It turns out, jet fuel doesn’t make for great steaks, but Ted's mistake helps illustrate some basics of grill safety. Check out all episodes of this web series (new episodes added weekly): Trailer - The UnReal Adventures of Ted & Traci Episode 1 - Om on the Road Episode 2 - Up in Smoke Episode 3 - Supercharged Episode 4 – Stranded Episode 6 - Staycation Transcript: ‘Grillmeister 7000' Ted: I can’t believe the neighbors got a Grillmeister 7000—that thing costs more than our car. But don’t be jealous, Traci: I’ve been working on something even better. Ted: I made just a few adjustments to our old grill… Now it runs on manpower!! Traci: Manpower, huh? Then what’s in the tank? Ted: Just a little something I like to call JET FUEL! YEAH! Let’s get this baby fired up! Ted: Hurry up, babe! Go get the steaks! Traci: So… Wanna order a pizza? Voiceover: Don’t add fuel to the fire. Connect with me on Google+ or follow me on Twitter
]]> Grillmeister

In Episode 5 of our web series The UnReal Adventures of Ted and Traci, our heroes are enjoying the warm summer weather. Ted fires up his gas grill for a nice outdoor meal, but only after he’s “improved” it. It turns out, jet fuel doesn’t make for great steaks, but Ted's mistake helps illustrate some basics of grill safety. Check out all episodes of this web series (new episodes added weekly): Trailer - The UnReal Adventures of Ted & Traci Episode 1 - Om on the Road Episode 2 - Up in Smoke Episode 3 - Supercharged Episode 4 – Stranded Episode 6 - Staycation Transcript: ‘Grillmeister 7000' Ted: I can’t believe the neighbors got a Grillmeister 7000—that thing costs more than our car. But don’t be jealous, Traci: I’ve been working on something even better. Ted: I made just a few adjustments to our old grill… Now it runs on manpower!! Traci: Manpower, huh? Then what’s in the tank? Ted: Just a little something I like to call JET FUEL! YEAH! Let’s get this baby fired up! Ted: Hurry up, babe! Go get the steaks! Traci: So… Wanna order a pizza? Voiceover: Don’t add fuel to the fire. Connect with me on Google+ or follow me on Twitter
]]> http://blog.allstate.com/fuel-your-grill-with-man-power-video/feed/ 0 King of the Grill: Serving Up Grill Safety [INFOGRAPHIC] http://blog.allstate.com/your-grill-serving-up-safety-with-a-sizzle-infographic/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=your-grill-serving-up-safety-with-a-sizzle-infographic http://blog.allstate.com/your-grill-serving-up-safety-with-a-sizzle-infographic/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 17:00:34 +0000 Brendan http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2012/05/25/your-grill-serving-up-safety-with-a-sizzle Family Enjoying A Barbeque

Throughout the United States, Memorial Day signifies the start of summer. This federal holiday is observed annually to honor American soldiers who gave their lives in defense of this country. One of the grand traditions associated with Memorial Day weekend is cooking food on an outdoor grill, enjoying the weather and spending time with friends and family. Grilling and barbecue can be fun and tasty, but certain safety precautions are a must. The infographic below provides some general grill safety information, grilling tips and common pitfalls to avoid to help ensure a safe holiday weekend. [infographic]
]]> Family Enjoying A Barbeque

Throughout the United States, Memorial Day signifies the start of summer. This federal holiday is observed annually to honor American soldiers who gave their lives in defense of this country. One of the grand traditions associated with Memorial Day weekend is cooking food on an outdoor grill, enjoying the weather and spending time with friends and family. Grilling and barbecue can be fun and tasty, but certain safety precautions are a must. The infographic below provides some general grill safety information, grilling tips and common pitfalls to avoid to help ensure a safe holiday weekend. [infographic]
]]> http://blog.allstate.com/your-grill-serving-up-safety-with-a-sizzle-infographic/feed/ 0 Road Sign Colors and Shapes http://blog.allstate.com/road-sign-colors-and-shapes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=road-sign-colors-and-shapes http://blog.allstate.com/road-sign-colors-and-shapes/#comments Wed, 22 May 2013 11:00:11 +0000 Melissa http://blog.allstate.com/?p=4736 Yellow Sign

If you read our recent post on the history of road signs, you may recall that the first stop sign appeared in Detroit in 1915 -- but it didn’t really look anything like it does today. The New York Times reports that the first stop sign was a 2-foot square metal sheet that had black letters on a white background. The stop sign -- and many of the other signs created to help guide motorists and provide important information -- evolved over the decades into the recognizable shapes we're accustomed to today.

The Shape of Things

In 1923, the shapes of signs started to evolve. The New York Times reports that after that first, square stop sign, other signs with more sides were designed to indicate a higher level of danger. A circular sign denoted the most risk, thanks to what can be seen as its infinite number of sides. As a result, circular signs were recommended for railroad crossings. The stop sign adopted an octagonal shape, which signaled the second-highest level of danger. Diamond-shaped signs were designed to provide warnings, while rectangular signs were intended to provide information. Setting standardized shapes for certain signs made sense since lighting wasn’t always ideal at that time. The thought was that it would be easier for drivers to react to known shapes, even if they couldn’t read the signs at night.

The Black-and-White Era

Not unlike the first TV sets, this first crop of road signs didn’t offer much in the way of color. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, most early signs were white with black letters, and manufacturing limitations meant that no road sign could be bigger than a 2-foot square.

The Dawn of Color

Color is an important part of road signs today; many drivers know what a sign means simply by those factors alone. Some of those sign colors go all the way back to 1924, when officials began discussing which color combinations to use on various types of signs. One of the color combinations discussed at that point was the stop sign's now-familiar white lettering on a red background -- but those colors weren't adopted immediately. At the time, a report indicated that it was easier to see a yellow sign than a red sign at night, so when the first manuals standardizing road sign colors were introduced in the late 1920s, the stop signs were yellow. The New York Times reports that the color red has always signified the need to stop, and while red stop signs were considered early on, producing a durable, red reflective material wasn’t possible until the late 1940s or early 1950s. The nationwide change from yellow to red stop signs didn't come until a few years later in 1954, when the DOT’s manual called for a red sign with white letters.

Road Signs Today

Now, stop signs have been red for so long that many people don't remember it any other way. The colors of other types of road signs can also give an indication of their meaning. Here’s a rundown of some of the more common colors and some examples of signs you might see out on the road: [slideshow] So, now you know a little more about the shapes and colors of signs -- from the plain black-and-white square signs of the 1920s to the iconic colors and shapes of today.]]> Yellow Sign

If you read our recent post on the history of road signs, you may recall that the first stop sign appeared in Detroit in 1915 -- but it didn’t really look anything like it does today. The New York Times reports that the first stop sign was a 2-foot square metal sheet that had black letters on a white background. The stop sign -- and many of the other signs created to help guide motorists and provide important information -- evolved over the decades into the recognizable shapes we're accustomed to today.

The Shape of Things

In 1923, the shapes of signs started to evolve. The New York Times reports that after that first, square stop sign, other signs with more sides were designed to indicate a higher level of danger. A circular sign denoted the most risk, thanks to what can be seen as its infinite number of sides. As a result, circular signs were recommended for railroad crossings. The stop sign adopted an octagonal shape, which signaled the second-highest level of danger. Diamond-shaped signs were designed to provide warnings, while rectangular signs were intended to provide information. Setting standardized shapes for certain signs made sense since lighting wasn’t always ideal at that time. The thought was that it would be easier for drivers to react to known shapes, even if they couldn’t read the signs at night.

The Black-and-White Era

Not unlike the first TV sets, this first crop of road signs didn’t offer much in the way of color. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, most early signs were white with black letters, and manufacturing limitations meant that no road sign could be bigger than a 2-foot square.

The Dawn of Color

Color is an important part of road signs today; many drivers know what a sign means simply by those factors alone. Some of those sign colors go all the way back to 1924, when officials began discussing which color combinations to use on various types of signs. One of the color combinations discussed at that point was the stop sign's now-familiar white lettering on a red background -- but those colors weren't adopted immediately. At the time, a report indicated that it was easier to see a yellow sign than a red sign at night, so when the first manuals standardizing road sign colors were introduced in the late 1920s, the stop signs were yellow. The New York Times reports that the color red has always signified the need to stop, and while red stop signs were considered early on, producing a durable, red reflective material wasn’t possible until the late 1940s or early 1950s. The nationwide change from yellow to red stop signs didn't come until a few years later in 1954, when the DOT’s manual called for a red sign with white letters.

Road Signs Today

Now, stop signs have been red for so long that many people don't remember it any other way. The colors of other types of road signs can also give an indication of their meaning. Here’s a rundown of some of the more common colors and some examples of signs you might see out on the road: [slideshow] So, now you know a little more about the shapes and colors of signs -- from the plain black-and-white square signs of the 1920s to the iconic colors and shapes of today.]]> http://blog.allstate.com/road-sign-colors-and-shapes/feed/ 0