Fifty years ago, cars came with only one standard safety feature: brakes. Over the last few decades, however, advancements in technology have given us features like occupant-sensitive air bags, adaptive cruise control, and emergency response systems. But no matter how fancy our cars get, no tech device or engineering feat can beat safe driving itself.

Since June is National Safety Month — and the month during which many of us plan our summer road trips — here are a few essential safe-driving tips.

	Check your tires regularly to avoid blowouts. Hot summertime weather causes the air inside your tires to expand, which can cause blowouts in well-worn wheels.
	Keep a pair of shades handy. Aside from complementing your quintessential summer style, sunglasses will help you avoid sun glare, which can temporarily blind you.
	Schedule regular stops on long road trips. Plan on stopping every 100 miles or 2 hours. Not only will you get a chance to check out roadside attractions along the way, you'll fight fatigue and drowsy driving by giving yourself regular breaks.

Safety central
Find out how far away you should sit from an air bag, how to put together the perfect emergency road kit, how to change a flat tire, and more (much more). To help you safely meet whatever challenges the road throws your way, we've amassed a wealth of safe driving info.

Summer's almost here. And while hot days and warm nights can spell backyard barbeques and poolside fun, in many parts of the country they can also spell fire danger.

To protect your home or condo from wildfire, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends that you:

	Create a 30- to 100-foot safety zone. Clear all dead or dying vegetation and remove dead branches that hang over the roof. If you live in a wooded area, a 100-foot clearing, known as defensible space, is recommended.
	Landscape with fire-resistant plants. Plants with moist, supple leaves, little dead wood, and low sap or resin can help contain fire rather than fuel it.
	Keep your plants well hydrated. Regular watering will keep your plants happy and moist, a key ingredient in fire prevention.
	Store firewood 100 feet away from your home. Why give fire any more fuel than necessary?

Defensible space is a good way to protect your home during the summer months, but a sound homeowners insurance or condo insurance policy will protect your most valuable asset all year long. Get a quick and easy quote and see how much you could save.