Learning Center | AARP Insurance from Foremost

A Biker's Wish Come True - Foremost Biker Story

Kathleen, 66, a resident from Vancouver, WA, has a wish of a lifetime to ride a motorcycle to honor her late husband.

Hand holding mobile phone with message pop-ups in the background

Six Warning Signs You May Be Getting Scammed

Scammers will go to great lengths to gain your trust to get money or your personal information. These criminals sound very intellectual and genuine, so it can be hard to recognize what's real. So, how can you tell if it's a scam?

Getting on top of any minor issues now will prevent them from turning into major repairs later

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Spring is a good time to inspect your home and property. It can be difficult to know what to look for, so we've come up with a checklist.

Mobile Home Pest Control 101

If you've ever had an animal under your mobile home, you know how frustrating it can be. Luckily, there are some things you can do to help prevent pests from nesting under your mobile home.

Motorcycle parked next to tent on the edge of the woods

Motorcycle camping: Planning tips

Resist the temptation to include everything you could possibly need. Try to limit yourself to the stuff you absolutely can't do without. This will keep your load within the realistic limits of what you can pack on your bike.

Mobile Home Kitchen Remodel Ideas

Are you looking to add some flavor to your mobile home? If so, you've come to the right place. Foremost Insurance has created a list of kitchen renovation ideas to inspire your next project.

Three bikers riding staggered down a road

How does customization affect my motorcycle value?

Many motorcycle owners customize their bikes to transform them from a stock manufactured product to a unique one. Here are a few things to think about before customizing your motorcycle.

10 Tips for After the Storm

Although the storm has passed, it doesn't mean you're completely out of danger. When returning to your home after an evacuation, you should approach with extreme caution and bring waterproof boots, a first aid kit and a battery-powered flashlight.

Safety Tips for Group Motorcycle Riding

One of the greatest experiences you can have is riding with others who share your love of motorcycles. However, group riding requires certain accommodations. Here are some suggested guidelines we've gathered to help you enjoy your trip and get back home safely.

A woman changing to an LED light bulb in fixture

Lower Your Mobile Home Energy Bill

A few small energy-efficient updates can make a big difference in your home. Here are some suggestions to reduce power consumption and lower your bill.

Vintage Leather Saddlebag on Red Motorcycle

Chosing a Motorcycle Saddlebag

At the speed a motorcycle travels in the harsh outside environment, it's important to have dependable luggage. A saddlebag offers the luxury and convenience to pack your essentials in a place that is spacious, durable, convenient and secure.

Storing away items in a recyclable storage box

Mobile Home Storage Solutions

Many homes lack sufficient storage options, which can lead to unwanted clutter. A little creativity can go a long way as you find new ways to store your belongings. Check out these ideas to maximize space and create a stress-free environment.

Motorcycle wheel with disc lock securing it

Motorcycle Theft Prevention

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there were 53,111 motorcycles stolen in 2020, the highest recorded total in five years. Unfortunately, everyone is at risk of theft, but there are measures you can take to deter thieves.

Conserve Energy in Your Mobile Home

If your home was built before 1976, chances are it's not exactly energy efficient. However, this doesn't mean you can't have a more energy-efficient mobile home now!

A biker navigating through snow covered mountains

Staying Warm on Your Motorcycle

The temperature feels colder when you are piercing through the air at high speeds, but heated motorcycle accessories and the right apparel can help keep you comfortable during cooler rides. Try these tactics to stay warm during the colder months!

A biker sitting on his bike in front of an Elvis Presley mural

A Biker's Tribute to Elvis Presley

You can get a custom paint job of virtually whatever you want — and Brian from Lansing, Michigan chose to get the King of Rock 'n Roll painted on his bike. Watch this episode of Biker Stories to find out where his idea came from, and what artist created this amazing paint job!

Prevent Pests Under Your Mobile Home

You never know when a critter may be scoping out the space under your mobile home for a potential residence. A few adjustments to the skirting and some simple solutions can keep pests from invading the area, such as installing motion-sensor lighting around your home.

Five Must-Ride Motorcycle Routes

If you are craving a new adventure, look no further! This list of routes highlights some lesser-known areas that are worth a ride.

Revamp Your Kitchen

Whether you bought a new or used mobile home, odds are that when you purchased it the design wasn’t exactly what you wanted. Builders may not use the most high-end materials on new builds, and if it’s an older model, it may be time for an update.

Emergency Preparedness Kit

If a disaster hits you may not have access to food, water or electricity for days. Here are the recommended items to include in an emergency preparedness kit.

Tie-Downs for Your Mobile Home

Mobile homes are more susceptible to flipping and incurring damage during heavy winds. Here's the step-by-step process for installing tie-downs and anchors.

Taking Your Bike Out of Storage

When it's time to take your bike out of storage, there are five maintenance tasks you should complete before you fire up the engine.

Mobile Home Spring Cleaning Tips

Spring is a good time to inspect your mobile home and make any necessary repairs in preparation for the summer months. Here are a few tips to get your home in top shape!

Eco-Friendly Holiday Tips

Did you know that Americans produce more trash during the holidays than any other time of year? 25% more, to be exact. If you're trying to produce less waste and recycle more, here's a few easy ways to be more environmentally friendly this holiday season!

New Year's Resolutions for Your Mobile Home

Having a fresh start for the New Year always feels good and exciting. Typically, people write down New Year's resolutions that relate to healthy eating, budgeting, volunteering, but what about improving the place you call home?

A fall seasonal display on living room table

Decorating for Fall on a Budget

Changing up your home décor is always fun reminder to enjoy the seasons changing, and can make your space feel a little cozier. Here's some easy and inexpensive ways to brighten up your home for autumn!

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Riding a motorcycle, whether you're a new or seasoned rider, comes with a lot of responsibility. We've put together some safety tips that will make you feel more prepared before you ride, an keep you safer while out on the open road!

Easy Recipes for the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a great time to hang out with your loved ones, and the center of any great gathering is food. Make your Independence Day spread stand out with these fun, easy recipes that are tasty even if you’re cooking for one.

A person relaxing with music while in plane

Travel like a Pro

New destinations are exciting, but sometimes the travel involved to get there can be … less than thrilling. If you have plans to travel this year, make sure you're prepared for the journey. We've listed everything you'll want for smooth travels during your next getaway!

Dog still in tailgate of SUV with suitcases

Vacationing with Your Dog

When you have a pet, traveling can be a bit tricky. You have to find someone to take care of them while you're gone, but you may feel like nobody loves them like you do. What if you didn't have to leave your dog at home? There are plenty of vacations options that are dog-friendly!

A motorcycle crashed laying on it's side in road

Avoid These Common Motorcycle Crashes

There is a risk every time you're out on the road. Protect yourself from these common motorcycle crashes by being a proactive driver.

Black dirt with flower and gardening tools laid out

How to Make a Flower Garden

If you have been wanting to start a garden, now is the time! The long, sunny days are a great source of energy for plants, making summer the perfect season to start growing flowers. Any home could use a pop of color. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, it can be helpful to cover the basics.

Visual and explaination of motorcycle hand signals used to communicate with other drivers

Hand Signals Every Rider Should Know

Foremost wants you to feel confident and safe on the road, and part of that means knowing how to communicate with your fellow motorcyclists. Whether you’re new to the world of motorcycles or a veteran biker, review these hand signals below and see if you know them all!

Grilled hamburg and chips on a red, white and blue plate

Grilling Safety Tips for Your Cookout

Happy Independence Day! Foremost^® hopes you are enjoying your holiday break in the sunshine with your family and friends. If you are planning a cookout at your house this Fourth of July, it's important to be extremely cautious and alert at all times! According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), July is the peak month for grill fires.

Man with blue ball cap and screw driver in hand putting a replacement window in place

Mobile Home Window Replacement

If the frame on one of your mobile home windows is warped or severely weather damaged, replace it. Even if the frames aren't warped or damaged, windows that seem to constantly need repair or adjustment should be replaced. A new, efficient window keeps cold drafts out of your manufactured home and saves you energy dollars in the long run.

Grandfather and grandson painting outside

Creative Ways to Entertain Grandkids this Summer

Whether you're planning for a visit or helping with the summer care for your grandchildren, keeping them interested and active is always a challenge. How do you vary the routine enough to keep it fun without relying too heavily on screen time? Here are a few ideas.

Preparing for Severe Weather

Along with flowers and warmer weather, spring can bring something that's not so pleasant — the threat of severe weather. Tornadoes, thunderstorms and windstorms can damage or destroy entire neighborhoods within minutes. Learn how to protect yourself and your family when storms strike.

Motorcyclist sitting on motorcycle wearing black leather

Why You Shouldn’t Overlook Your Tires

When it comes to motorcycles, there are few things as important as the tires. Tire maintenance is essential, and it doesn’t take a lot of time or effort to inspect a bike’s tires. In addition, doing regular inspections will help the motorcycle achieve top mileage and performance.

Preventing water leaks in your home

There's not much mobile homeowners can do to prevent weather-related damage to their residences. If a snowstorm, tornado, hurricane, or windstorm directs its aim toward a particular home, the homeowner is left with little more than hope that the damage won't be significant.

Protect your motorcycle against theft

According to National Insurance Crime Bureau statistics, motor vehicle thefts are on the rise, and among the vehicles being targeted are motorcycles. And, only 25% to 30% of motorcycles are recovered after theft.

Avoiding Hazards on the Road

Whether you're a novice or a skilled motorcycle operator, there are going to be times when hazards on the road test your handling abilities. The best defense you have is the ability to react quickly and calmly to the hazards that appear in your path.

Weather Safety: Plan for a Hurricane

It's important to plan an emergency strategy ahead of time and talk about it with your family. Preparing ahead of time helps you avoid the panicked rushes to buy basic supplies when a severe storm threatens an area.

Two motorcyclist riding on winding mountain road

It's time for a memorable motorcycle road trip

Packing right, deciding whether to ride your bike the entire way or trailer it, and selecting the perfect scenic route are all part of creating the motorcycle vacation of your dreams. These tips will help you avoid potential bumps in the road.

Patio area with white wicker furniture and blue hydrangeas

Invigorate your deck or patio with these quick and easy tips

Start your summer with a refresher for your outdoor space so you can relax and enjoy the season to its fullest. These tips will give you a great start.

New Year's Resolutions for Bikers

It's that time of the year again. Saying goodbye to 2018, and welcoming new adventures in 2019, whatever they may be. While it's great to come up with lifestyle resolutions, your list can look a little different if you're a biker.

Bring the Holiday Magic to Your Home

Is it your turn to host the holiday gathering? Maybe you just look forward to the joy of the season, with all of the sparkling decorations and twinkling lights. Regardless, with a little imagination, you can make your home festive and welcoming. Here are some creative, affordable ways you can make your home look magical without breaking the bank!

Motorcycle parked outside and covered in snow

How to beat motorcycle winter blues

If you live in a climate that makes it tough to ride your motorcycle during the winter months, the cold days can drag on for what seems like forever. But, take heart.

Open SUV tailgate, with tailgate lunch of, sub sandwiches and peaches, sitting by a thermos, football and a blanket.

How to Plan a Terrific Tailgate Party

Enjoy your fall game time to its fullest with a tailgate party for you and your friends. These tips will help things go smoothly.

Motorcyclist riding down a country road with blue skies and open spaces in front of him

Get ready for the motorcycle ride of a lifetime

You still have time to squeeze in a motorcycle trip before the cold weather hits. These exciting routes through some of the most stunning areas in the U.S. will take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Various pink, purple, white and red fireworks exploding in a dark sky

Safely enjoy those fireworks this Fourth of July

It wouldn't be the fourth of July without the glittering cascade of fireworks lighting up the sky.

Motorcycle riding down the road into the sun

Beat the heat and stay safe on the road this summer

You don't need to sacrifice safety to conquer the heat on a summer ride. Follow these tips to keep your cool.

Skunk with tail up standing on tree branch

Stabilize your skirting and try some home remedies

You never know when a critter may be scoping out the space under your home for a potential residence.

Man working on custom chrome rear wheel of metallic blue custom motorcycle

Make your ride your own with modifications

Many motorcycle owners like to personalize their bikes and make them unique; however, you can also make a few simple modifications to help your bike ride smoother and safer.

Watch your roof for ice dams this winter

As winter rolls around, homeowners should be aware of damages that can occur due to snow and cold weather. One common scenario is ice damming.

A motorcyclist taking a spin during a cold wintery day

Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding — Yes, it can be done!

If you want to extend your motorcycle riding season, there are ways to defend yourself against the cold so you can still enjoy your ride. If snow is on the way or covering the roads, wait until the forecast and the streets are clear, and then try these ways to stay warm.

Motorcycle riding down road with leaves and fall colors in the background

Avoid Autumn Road Hazards

As autumn sets in, so do additional road hazards. Whether you're a novice or a skilled motorcycle operator, there will be times when road hazards test your handling abilities.

Motorcyclist with the open road in front of them and mountains in the foreground

Live where you love to ride

Different places around the country offer different types of riding excursions. Choose the locations that best match your riding style.

A couple in a store standing in front of washers and dryers

What to consider when buying appliances for your mobile home

When you're ready to buy appliances for your manufactured home, you've got a few important things to think about.

What to do when the rain hits while you're on the road

What helps you salvage a ride that gets interrupted by rain? Three main things — caution, good rubber and rainwear. The most dangerous time for riding in the rain is the first 15 minutes.

Man with cresent wrench working on red motorcycle wheel

Get Your Bike Ready for Winter Journeys

It's 40 degrees outside, the roads are dry, and you've got a couple hours before the big game starts on TV. How about a quick ride?

Home Heating Precautions

Almost half of all families in the United States use alternate heating sources in place of or in addition to a furnace. However, heating equipment can be dangerous if not used properly. Whatever methods you choose to heat your home this winter, take the following precautions to stay both warm and safe.

Gold decorative ornament in the middle of silver sparkly Christman decorations

Bring the holiday sparkle to your home

The key is to keep it simple and fun so that you can relax and enjoy the holiday! Place an assortment of small items in glass vases. Hang sparkly ribbons and garland.

A mobile home owner checking roof and gutters

Save money by preparing for cold weather now

Polyurethane caulking is a good all-around choice for sealing your home from drafts and leaks. Caulk gutter and downspout seams, plumbing and furnace vent pipes, flashing seams between the roof and siding, door and window frames, along siding joints and around the dryer vent.

Check for Roof Leaks Before They Sneak Up on You

Damage from roof leaks is one of the most common mobile home repair concerns. An even bigger concern is whether the damage the leak causes is covered by insurance.

A road sign with the text Insurance Options

What type of loss settlement is best for my home?

By Matthew Griffith, Service Advocate, AINS, API, AIS

Many times each week I speak to customers who want to spend their money wisely and protect their investments so they can enjoy their lives without worry. One of the most common questions I hear is, "My home seems to be insured for a lot more than it's worth; I'd never be able to sell it for that amount. Shouldn't I reduce the amount of coverage?"

A mobile home owner remotely controlling home with tablet

High-tech updates that make your home more efficient

Replace a few of your existing power outlets with USB power outlets, so you can recharge your e-Reader or smartphone, while leaving your coffee pot plugged in.

Red, White and Blue Popsicles on a plate with fruit in the background

Play it safe at your Fourth of July picnic

So you've got your Independence Day fare all planned out and you're ready to celebrate? Before you break out the grills and coolers, follow these quick tips for a safe, fun-filled day.

How to plan your first motorcycle camping trip

The natural tendency is to list everything you could possibly need. Resist the temptation. Experienced motorcycle campers take a different approach. Their lists include only the stuff they absolutely can't do without.

Avoid these common driving mistakes

Riding a motorcycle in a world full of cars and trucks can be dangerous. And being the one on the motorcycle, you're much more likely to be seriously injured than the other driver. Luckily, there are ways to help prevent the most common types of crashes and stay safe.

A motorcycle rider riding in the early morning

What to consider when gearing up for the long haul

If you want to have the safest ride possible, wear full protective gear. And in your saddlebag, you keep full rain gear within reach.

What to consider when making mobile home improvements

Before you dive into a mobile home addition of any kind, take a close look at what's possible.

Keep coverage year round

Even if you live in an area with snowy winters, it's important to keep year-round coverage on your motorcycle.

Keep your holidays safe and happy

The holiday season is right around the corner — that special time of year when you brighten your home with scented candles and twinkling lights. Although decorating your home creates a cheerful atmosphere, it also brings an increased risk of accidental fire. These safety tips will help you avoid potential hazards.

Keep Water at Bay

Water damage, whether caused by leaks or condensation, can do more than leave unsightly stains in your home. It can cause permanent structural damage and lead to many costly repairs. Here are some of the areas you should inspect regularly.

Motorcycle Fun Facts

Have fun with these facts about the history of the motorcycle.

Prepare your home for cold weather

Is your mobile home ready for the cooler weather? The steps you take now can eliminate expensive repairs, save energy and make your home safer. And with the right information, you can do the work yourself instead of paying someone else to do it.

Reclaim Your Kitchen

If every nook and cranny of your kitchen is filled, it's time to take a second look at your use of space. Well-planned cabinets, drawers and shelves maximize space, save steps, and eliminate frustrating searches for gadgets and tools. Follow these steps and chances are you can reorganize and reclaim more storage than you ever thought possible.

Ways to Improve Performance

Help your motorcycle reach its peak with these tips. You can do it yourself or work with a professional to reach your goals.

Stop pests from invading your home

Nobody likes the idea of pests flying and crawling around their home, so don't make it easy for them. Invest a little time and effort in pest prevention, and help stop these little critters before they become a big problem. Here are some tips to reduce infestation.

Tips on buying used bikes

There's always some risk involved in buying a used motorcycle. You have to rely on the word of the seller, and they may not be as forthcoming as you'd like. That's why it's important to be cautious. Follow these suggestions to help ensure you get what you expect out of the deal.

Make small rooms appear larger

If you wish some of the rooms in your home were bigger, you're probably not alone. If renovation isn't an option, here are some tricks you can use to give the appearance of more space.

Start Your Own Garden

If you haven't thought about planting your own garden before, give it a try. You don't need as much space as you think and there are several compelling reasons to grow your own food. Best of all, everyone loves fresh, homegrown produce.

Keep safe on the open road with these suggestions

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Here are a few suggestions that will help keep you safe before you ride, and while you're out on the open road.

Motorcycle Safety — Dress Right When You Ride

When getting geared up to ride, there are important factors that should influence your wardrobe. The top two are safety and comfort.

A motorcycle running through an obstacle course.

Motorcycle Safety Course

Whether you've been riding for years or just bought your first bike, there are definite benefits to taking a Motorcycle Safety Course.

Tips for Long-Distance Motorcycle Trips

A long-distance motorcycle trip will put your skills and endurance to the test. Distance riding requires a great deal of knowledge and preparation. Check out these tips to help your ride go smoothly.

A motorcycle rider driving in a light fog

Tips for seasoned motorcycle riders

As people get older, they need to recognize and accommodate any physical, age-related changes they undergo to ensure they are riding as safely and as comfortably as possible. Even the most experienced rider will need to adjust to these common types of changes. Check out these tips that will help you ride safely no matter what your age.

A person creating a persoal property list

Create a Personal Property Inventory

If your possessions are stolen or destroyed, your insurance company will ask you to provide a record of them.

Heater Safety

Heaters can help you keep warm and toasty when cold weather sets in. They can also cause fires when not properly used and maintained. Keep comfortable and increase your peace of mind with these tips.

Furnace Safety

Properly maintaining your furnace is key to keeping your home warm and safe during the winter. Follow these tips to keep your furnace working right.

Fire Prevention

Our study of mobile home fires found the number one cause of accidental mobile home fires to be inadequate maintenance of the home's mechanical system. Other frequent causes: carelessness and accidents.

A Road Closed sign in front of flooded street

Weather Safety: A Storm's Aftermath

Just because the storm has passed does not mean you and your family are out of danger. There are simple safety rules to follow after a hurricane to keep you out of harm's way.

Weather Safety: What to Know About Hurricanes

There are five stages of hurricane development. When a storm does become a hurricane, it can happen at a quick, intense pace. Hurricane season runs from June through November beginning with organized low pressure systems forming over tropical waters.

Weather Safety: What to do When a Hurricane Approaches

Remain calm and follow these steps when a hurricane approaches.

Weather Safety: Protect Your Pets During a Disaster

Don't forget those loyal family members — your pets. They need preparation just as humans do.

Weather Safety: Prepare for an Evacuation

If it becomes necessary to evacuate, plan for it ahead of time. Talk it over and make decisions so everyone understands the plan. Preparation can save lives and reduce the amount of time it takes to get your family to safety and eventually back home.

Weather Safety: Plan for Those With Special Needs

Prepare ahead. Make arrangements with friends, relatives, neighbors or your local emergency management office if you'll need assistance in an evacuation. Remember to bring medications, written instructions regarding your care, special equipment and bedding with you.

An emergency checklist, batteries, flashlight, and water bottles

Weather Safety: Emergency Checklist

A detailed list of items for emergency situations is listed below or download a printable copy of the emergency checklist. Be ready for a weather emergency in advance and put together a basic survival kit.

A close-up of an emergency preparation checklist

Preparing for Disaster

Learn about the things you should do to prepare your mobile home long before a storm is predicted. You'll also find ideas on how to build a survival kit and a list of things to think about when you know a storm is imminent.

Home Theft Prevention

The easiest way to prevent theft in your mobile home is to lock your doors and windows when you leave, whether you'll be gone a few minutes or a few days. Yet, standard door locks, like key-in-the-knob spring bolt locks, may not be enough to deter experienced thieves.

Mobile Home Safety Precautions

Mastering most safety precautions is pretty easy work. We've got some tools and reminders in this section to make it easier than ever.

A mobile home owner insulating his window

Keep your mobile home warm this winter

Yes, you can stay warm this winter and keep your heating bills down at the same time. Check out these tips on how to keep the heat inside and the cold outside.

Wear the proper safety gear

When's the last time you took a good look at your motorcycle safety gear? Do you have everything you need? Is it still in good condition? As you sort through your belongings and think about what to buy for the next motorcycle season, consider this important information.

Mobile Home Anchors & Tie Downs

When strong winds blow, manufactured homes need special protection. No matter where you live, you need tie-downs and anchors to keep your manufactured home stable and secure. Before you start the job, you should understand why this wind protection system is necessary, and know the basic requirements for tie-downs and anchors.

A vase of fresh purple flowers sitting on a table

Lighten up your home in time for spring

Here's a spring home inspection checklist to prepare for the summer months.