Peace of Mind
Safeguarding the interests of you and your family
March 2008
in this issue
:: Lock Bumping Solutions
:: Miley Cyrus Criticized, Seatbelt Debate Started
:: Meet Susan Sandlin
:: Gas Prices Up
:: Trusted Choice
:: Latest Business Headlines

Welcome to our March eNewsletter.

We recently sent out an email about the spread of 'lock bumping' as a crime attacking neighborhoods across America, and the response was overwhelming. In this issue of 'Peace of Mind' we are proposing some solutions to the problem. Please see the article below.

You can also ready about the controversy stirred up when Miley Curus was not wearing seat belts in a new, Hannah Montana movie - not a good thing to teach her fans. In addition, meet Susan Sandlin, one of our new business agents.

I encourage you to call on us at any time with questions or for any support you may need.

Thank you for your business. We look forward to continuing our relationship.

Best regards,

Steve Brooks

Lock Bumping Solutions


Lock Bumping

The method of lock bumping using a bump key to break-in has been known to criminals for many years. With the recent spread of this information across the Internet and the news media, more and more people have access to the tools and technique on lock bumping using a bump key. Traditional locks with key are soon becoming unsafe and vulnerable to the attack. Home and business owners must take precautionary measures to protect themselves and their property.

Here are some solutions to the problem:

1. Replace regular locks with keyless locking devices. High security locks that don't have bump-able pins. This could address the security threat and provide auditable trails for your entry points. We do suggest you buy slightly more expensive locks that can't be bumped - Medeco or Schlage Primus. A recent installation we know about cost just under $160 for lock and installation.

2. Install a home security system. You'd be amazed how many homes have a system but don't actually use it! Please note that some insurance policies give a discount for central station burglar alarms, but not necessarily for certain locks. The discount varies but it can represent as much as 10% in premium savings.

3. Worst case; install a simple chain or sliding lock that will offer protection when you are in the house.

Public Service Site about Lock Bumping

Recent News stories:

'Bump Key' Can Unlock Many Locks

Lockpicking Tool Easy To Buy Online

Bump Keys Can Unlock Most Doors In Seconds

Miley Cyrus is Criticized, and a Debate on Seat Belts and Movies Follows

Miley CyrusNEW YORK When Consumer Reports posted a blog last week criticizing Miley Cyrus for not wearing her seat belt in a new film, Hannah Montana Nation rallied in her defense.

Before long, the posting had received nearly 200 comments (far more than the typical one or two) - and made national news.

"Absolutely we were caught off-guard," said Don Mays, who wrote the post. "Whether people agree or not with our analysis, at the very least, I would like them to understand the risk."

But anyone looking for car safety tips from Hollywood would be advised to avoid most movies. Immediately, one might write off the work of Bruce Willis, Steve McQueen and Burt Reynolds - not to mention avoid "Thelma & Louise" entirely.

Even aside from Hollywood's propensity for road rage, movies generally don't portray seat-belt usage. A study in 2001 found that only 30 percent of movies showed seat belts buckled.

Read on...
email marketing


 
Meet Susan Sandlin
New Business Agent


Susan is a seasoned insurance veteran with over 25 years of experience in personal insurance.  She is very familiar with all aspects of preferred auto and home policies and companies so she is well-suited to find you the best coverage at the best price.

Susan, a native of Southern California, enjoys boating on the Colorado River with her husband Rob, their three children, and their loveable Labrador, Emmitt.

"Being able to do the right thing in the right way for our clients is how we build the long-term relationships we enjoy here at Brooks."

More Brooks Staff...

Gas prices up by two cents a day in most of Southern California

Southern California residents saw double-digit increases in gasoline prices this week, as prices increased by nearly two cents a day, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California.

The average price of self-serve regular gasoline in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area is $3.199, which is 11.2 cents higher than last week, 2 cents less than last month, and 52 cents above last year.

On the Central Coast, the average price is $3.364, up 10.8 cents from last week, 4 cents above last month, and 52 cents more than last year.

In the Inland Empire, the average price is $3.216, 13.5 cents above last week, up 1 cent from last month, and 53 cents higher than last year.

Best Gas Prices

Look For the Sign of the Trusted Choice

Thousands of Trusted Choice® insurance agencies offer you a broad selection of insurance policies, companies and financial services, customization of coverages for home and business, and advocacy support. These firms are committed to providing excellent customer service. They also benefit from access to many leading insurance companies. We are proud to be a Trusted Choice® agency.

Read more Trusted Choice Info...
Business Headlines

Social Media Will Change Your Business businessweek.com

Great Entrepreneurial Minds  inc.com

EBay boycott begins, to uncertain effect cnnmoney.com

Gulp! 7-Eleven unseats Subway as top franchise  MSNBC.com

Crafting a Technology Security Plan  entrepreneur.com