Arizona experiences the “monsoon” season during the summer months of July through September. The Arizona monsoon officially began after the third consecutive day of dew points above 55 degrees. On average this occurred around July 7 with the monsoon continuing for the next two months. Monsoon storms range from minor dust storms to violent thunderstorms and micro bursts. Typically, Arizona monsoon storms start with heavy winds sometimes resulting in a visible wall of dust hundreds of feet high moving across the Valley. These dust storms are normally accompanied by frequent thunder and lightning often leading to heavy downpours. Monsoon rains average about 2-1/2″, about 1/3 of our yearly rainfall.

Serious damage can occur from high winds, or from debris being tossed by those high winds. It is not unusual for trees to be downed, power lines to be damaged, and roof damage to occur. As you might imagine, homes that are not as sturdy, like some manufactured homes, are more susceptible to wind damage. Power outages for short periods of time are not uncommon.

We need to be aware of the condition of our roofs and the overall condition of the home structure.

The Arizona Insurance Council wants to remind Arizona residents to be prepared when a monsoon storm strikes.

1) Have an emergency kit ready in your house and car including first aid items, water, ready to eat food, battery powered flashlights and radios with extra batteries. Power outages are common this time of year.

2) Store outdoor furniture away from windows and glass doors to prevent damages caused by high winds.

3) Keep all doors closed and locked to keep out wind and water from the storms.

4) Check your roof for any loose shingles or cracked tiles. Water can leak through these cracks and cause damage to both the interior and exterior of your home.

5) Most importantly, get an insurance policy check up. Home and business owners should contact their insurance agent to make certain they have the proper level of coverage in case damages do occur.

During the hot summer months, it sure is refreshing to dive into your own personal pool. Many homes nowadays have pools and that means summer time fun. It is also a time when children are attracted to jump in and have fun as well. The unfortunate fact is that way too many children die in accidental drownings. This does not have to be a statistic in your home if you follow some basic common sense tips.

The Arizona Insurance Council wants to make sure  you take a layered approach to protection between your home and pool. “A pool fence with self-closing self latching gates and a door alarm that sounds when the door is opened from the inside are easy cost effective addition to what you already may have,” suggests Ron Williams, executive director of the AIC.

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, 25 children died in 2007 alone from drowning, another 167 children were hospitalized or seen in an emergency department for a non fatal drowning. For the first half of 2009 alone, there have been over 20 cases of drowning or near drownings and three of those were fatal. (taken from Drowning Coalition of Arizona)

Other ways to keep children safe around water:

1. Always make sure doors, gates, even pet doors that lead to the pool area are secure.
2. Teach children to swim early on. Classes are offered for children as young as one year old.
3. Keep toys away from the pool and spa areas and secure spas with child proof covers.
4. Parents, take the phone with you out by the pool so you can call 911 immediately if needed.

If we just take common sense steps to prevent drownings, we can dramatically reduce the number of drowning cases and enjoy a safe and fun summer!