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Home Safety Checklist for Daylight Saving Time


While you're updating those manual clocks around the house, don't forget to do your semi-annual household safety checks. Our daylight saving safety checklist can help protect your home and family from preventable accidents.

Inspect Your Fire Extinguishers 

  • Make sure extinguishers are easily accessible.
  • Check the tamper seal and pull pin. If the seal is broken or the pin is missing, replace the extinguisher or have a certified fire extinguisher technician inspect it.
  • Look for physical damage and debris in the hoses and nozzles. Replace the extinguisher if it shows signs of damage or corrosion.
  • Have fire extinguishers professionally inspected once per year.

Check Your Garage Door Sensors

If they are not working correctly, a closing garage door could harm belongings or people in its path.

  • Test the automatic reversing mechanism by placing a piece of wood, such as a 2×4, on the ground in the door's path as it's closing. The door should reverse one or two seconds after hitting the wood. If it does not, refer to your owner's manual on how to make an adjustment to the opener's sensitivity or contact a professional garage door service.
  • Test the photoelectric sensors by placing an object in front of them as the door is coming down. The door should immediately reverse. If it does not, check the sensors for alignment, dirty lenses or damage.

Test Your Smoke Alarms

  • Push the test button to make sure the alarm sounds.
  • See how the alarm responds to smoke: Light a match and blow it out directly under the alarm, or use an aerosol smoke can if the detector is out of reach.
  • Have someone stand as far away from the smoke alarm as possible to be sure it's audible.
  • Change the batteries twice a year.
  • Replace the device every seven to 10 years — earlier if the alarm sounds weak or doesn't emit noise after you change the batteries and perform multiple tests.

Practice a Family Fire Drill

  • Pick a place to meet outside that everyone can remember.
  • Follow your fire escape plan. If you don't have one, map out how you will exit each room in the event of a fire.
  • Practice the drill at night when family members are asleep. This will help prepare them for waking up to smoke alarms and getting out of the house quickly.

Update Your First Aid and Emergency Preparedness Kits

  • Check expiration dates and replace old contents.
  • Make sure flashlight batteries work.
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Daylight saving time ends November 1, 2020! While most mobile phones and computers will update the time automatically — don't forget to do your home safety checks as you manually update the time on your stove, microwave and bedside alarm clocks, too.

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MetLife YourLife

Three Reasons Why Union Members Should Switch to AT&T

 

  1. Network Strength

    AT&T has the nation’s largest and most reliable network in the country. 

    Coverage not avail. everywhere. Based on overall coverage in U.S. licensed/roaming areas. See coverage details below.

  2. Union Solidarity

     AT&T is the only nationwide unionized wireless carrier. When you choose AT&T, you’re choosing to support the more than 150,000 union members employed there.
     
  3. Wireless Discounts

    AT&T offers union members exclusive discounts on wireless with the AT&T Signature Program discounts through Union Plus.

    Plus, when you switch to AT&T, you can get up to $650 in credits per line when you trade in your smartphone, and buy a new one on AT&T Next. 

    Each line reqs elig. port-in, trade-in, purch., & svc. $650= min. $5 trade-in credit/promo card (for AT&T products/svc only) + prepaid card (w/in 90 days) for device balance/early term. fee amount less trade-in. Fees, charges & restrs apply. See SWITCH TO ATT details below.

    Ready to switch and start saving? Head to your local AT&T store with this coupon, or visit unionplus.org/att today.

LEARN MORE
 

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Coverage not avail. everywhere. Based on overall coverage in U.S. licensed/roaming areas. Reliability based on voice and data performance from independent 3rd party data. Restrictions on Use: Do not use in a manner inferring AT&T leads coverage / reliability in LTE. This claim cannot be paired with images or copy exclusively referencing streaming or data use.

SWITCH TO AT&T: Each line reqs an eligible port-in, trade-in, purchase, svc & final bill submission. Credits received may not equal all costs of switching. Elig. port-in: From eligible carrier (excludes Cricket & select others) on their term agmt or device plan (excludes 3rd party agmts). Must buy elig. smartphone in same transaction. Elig. Purchase/Svc: Smartphone on AT&T Next or AT&T Next Every Year installment agmt w/elig. svc (excludes prepaid, Lifeline, Residential Wireless and select discounted plans). Acct & svc must remain active & in good standing for 30 days. Tax due at sale. Down payment may be req’d. If svc is cancelled, installment agmt balance (up to $950) is due. Limit: Purch. limits apply. Trade-in: Select locations. Must be smartphone on line ported, be in good working condition w/min. $5 trade-in value & meet AT&T Trade-In program reqmts. Trade-in Credit: Instant credit or AT&T VISA Promotion Card issued by MetaBank™ or CenterState Bank of Florida NA, via license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. (may take 3 weeks to receive). Not redeemable for cash & non-transferable. Credit/Card valid for 5 months & for use only to purch. AT&T products & svc in AT&T owned retail stores, at att.com, or to pay wireless bill. Add’l cardholder terms & conditions apply & are provided w/Promotion Card. At dealers get credit (w/add’l terms) for use at dealer. Final Bill: Must go to att.com/helpyouswitch & upload or mail final bill w/in 60 days showing Early Termination Fee (ETF) or device plan balance (incl. lease purch. costs) on number ported. Final Credit: Total amount equals device balance/ETF (excludes taxes, fees, svc & other charges) up to $650 minus trade-in. Get up to $645 for device plan balance or up to $345 for ETF. W/in 4 wks after meet all elig. reqmts, will be mailed AT&T VISA Promotion Card issued by MetaBank™ or CenterState Bank of Florida NA, via license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Not redeemable for cash & non-transferable. For use at US locations where Visa cards are accepted through date printed on card (min. 150 days). Add’l cardholder terms & conditions apply & are provided w/Promotion Card. See att.com/switch for details.

GEN. WIRELESS SVC: Subj. to Wireless Customer Agmt (att.com/wca) or, for business customers, applicable wireless svc agmt. Svcs not for resale. Deposit may be reqd. Credit approval, activ., other fees, monthly, overage, other charges, usage, other restrs apply. Pricing & terms subject to change & may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Coverage & svc not avail. everywhere. You get an off-net (roaming) usage allowance for each svc. If you exceed the allowance, your svc(s) may be restricted or terminated. Other restrs apply & may result in svc termination.
 

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Exclusive Wireless Discounts for Union Members
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Looking to switch wireless carriers, but unsure of which one to choose? Here are three reasons union members should seriously consider switching to AT&T.

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Union Plus Team

Tips to Help You Find The Right Home

Whether it’s a first home or next home, the Union Plus® Mortgage program, with financing provided by Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, provides union members, their parents and children access to a wide range of home loan options to meet a variety of needs, plus special benefits designed for union families. And, you can also find the homebuying tools and information you need every step of the way.

Location, Location, Location

This first step is to understand your needs:

  • What areas of your city/county appeal to you?
  • Do you want to live in a neighborhood, or is having land important to you?
  • Do you want to be near schools, shopping, or public transportation?
  • How close do you need to be to your job?
Make a Wish List

Before you start looking at houses, make a list of the home features that are most important to you.

  • How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need? Are you downsizing or planning for a growing family?
  • Do you prefer the look of a two-story home, or do you want a one-story with everything all on one level?
  • Would you like an older home with character in an established neighborhood, or are you drawn to the benefits of a newly constructed home?
  • What kind of amenities and features would you like? How about a gourmet kitchen or a fireplace?
  • What about the exterior: siding, brick, or stucco?

Most homebuyers need to make compromises, and it's helpful if you already know which items are "must-haves" and which are simply "nice-to-haves." You can download our Wish List (PDF)* to help you prioritize.
When you’re ready to start looking at homes, consider using a real estate agent. While it’s easy to search for homes online today, you’ll receive invaluable information and assistance by working with a licensed real estate agent.

Getting Prequalified

In addition to considering what you need and want in a home, it’s helpful to know how much you may be able to borrow to buy a home. A prequalification lets you estimate how much you may be able to borrow, but is not a commitment to lend so it doesn’t require a credit check or mortgage application.

If you have any questions about the homebuying process, loan options, or would like a free prequalification, contact a Wells Fargo Home Mortgage consultant today. If you are considering refinancing, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has options for you too!

And remember, after closing on a loan through the Union Plus Mortgage program, you’ll be eligible for special benefits that include receiving a My Mortgage GiftSM award from Wells Fargo - $500 for buying a home or $300 for refinancing your home, for use at participating retailers – and access to mortgage assistance through Union Plus in times of hardship such as layoff, disability or strike.1,2 Keep in mind that parents and children of union members are also eligible for certain benefits.

 

Click here to learn more about the Union Plus Mortgage program, talk to a Union Plus Mortgage Specialist at 866-802-7307 or request a personal consultation.

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1. Eligible individuals can receive the Wells Fargo My Mortgage GiftSM award approximately 6 weeks after closing on a new purchase or refinance loan secured by an eligible first mortgage or deed of trust with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (“New Loan”), subject to qualification, approval and closing, when identifying themselves as eligible. The My Mortgage GiftSM award is not available with The Relocation Mortgage Program® or to any Wells Fargo team member.  Only one My Mortgage Gift award is permitted per eligible New Loan.  This award cannot be combined with any other award, discount or rebate, except for yourFirstMortgageSM. This award is void where prohibited, transferable, and subject to change or cancellation with no prior notice. Awards may constitute taxable income. Federal, state and local taxes, and any use of the award not otherwise specified in the Terms and Conditions (also provided at receipt of award) are the sole responsibility of the My Mortgage GiftSM recipient.
2. The Union Plus® Mortgage Assistance Program is provided and administered through the AFL-CIO Mutual Benefit Plan (“The Plan”), which is not affiliated with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Additional information about this program and eligibility criteria can be obtained at www.unionplus.org/assistance.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has a services agreement with Union Privilege in which Union Privilege receives a financial benefit for providing agreed upon services. You are encouraged to shop around to ensure you are receiving the services and loan terms that fit your home financing needs.

Union Plus® is a registered trademark of Union Privilege.

Information is accurate as of date of distribution. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

© 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801

 
Summary

As those freezing temperatures start to warm up in some areas, so does the housing market. Spring not only means more fun outdoors, it’s also a great time to buy a home. Buying a home is exciting, but it’s also a major financial transaction, so it’s important to be prepared. With a little planning and research, you can build your homebuying knowledge and have more confidence that you’ll choose the right home at the right time.

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Top Five Myths About Sending Flowers for Valentine’s Day


Myth #1 — Flowers are too expensive.
Teleflora has arrangements to suit any budget including several choices under $40. Plus, your Union Plus discount gives you an additional 25% off ANY arrangement.

Myth #2 — Telefora only sells flowers and not everyone can enjoy flowers.
Teleflora’s selections include elegant plants and gift baskets of chocolate, fruit, and more.

Myth #3 — Valentine’s Day is too busy to send flowers.
Simply send flowers one or more days early so your arrangements can be enjoyed even longer.

Myth #4 — Sending flowers is cliché.
Think of all the love that goes into floral artists arranging and hand-delivering a beautiful arrangement with a heartfelt note from you. It’s a classic gesture that will always be appreciated.

Myth #5 — Flowers are only for your significant other.
Valentine’s Day is about love, not just romance. So send love to your friends, parents, siblings, or other loved ones. This unexpected gesture can go a long way to brightening someone’s day.

Save 25% on Teleflora Flowers and Gift Baskets

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Save 25% on Teleflora Flowers and Gift Baskets for Valentine's Day
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Save 25% on Teleflora Flowers and Gift Baskets for Valentine's Day
Summary

If you’re flirting with sending flowers for Valentine’s Day…it’s time to get the facts. We’re debunking the top five myths about sending Valentine’s Day Flowers.

Author(s)
Leslie Williamson, Union Plus

iPhone Slowing Down? It Might Be Time to Replace Your Battery


Apple typically charges $79 to replace a phone battery. However, the company announced Thursday that it will drop the price to $29 for anyone with an iPhone 6 or later.

The new pricing is to take effect in late January and run through the end of 2018.

Why would slowing the phone's processor help with a dying battery? According to Apple, processor-intensive activities can cause a sudden increase in power demand.

The same thing can happen during normal operations when a phone has a very low charge, or is exposed to cold temperatures.

Apple said in a statement that the slowdown, which was rolled out for the iPhone 6, 6s, and SE last year, was intended to improve "power management during peak workloads to avoid unexpected shutdowns" in those models.

This fall, it extended this functionality to the iPhone 7 with the introduction of iOS 11.2, and the company said it will expand to other products in the future.

Slowing down the performance of phones with aging batteries might sound like a reasonable strategy in these circumstances. However, when Apple recently admitted to the practice, angry comments appeared across the internet and some consumers filed lawsuits.

In the message Thursday, the company acknowledged that many iPhone owners were angry about decreased performance. The company apologized, and said it was cutting the price of battery replacements "to address our customers’ concerns, to recognize their loyalty and to regain the trust of anyone who may have doubted Apple’s intentions." 

Apple also said that an iOS update in early 2018 would give consumers more information on the health of iPhone batteries "so they can see for themselves if its condition is affecting performance."

The bottom line: If you have an older iPhone that’s otherwise in good shape, you may be able to eliminate slowdowns by replacing your battery.

Here’s what you need to know, starting with how smartphone batteries age.

How Do Batteries Age?

As Indiana Jones said, “it’s not the years, it’s the mileage.” It really doesn’t matter how old your battery is, but how often you charge it.

Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time depending on how many charging cycles they go through. A heavy user who charges their phone midway through the day, then plugs it in again at night, will see their battery wear out significantly faster than someone who can go a couple days without adding juice, says Richard Fisco, Consumer Reports’ head of smartphone testing.

As a result, the effective life of a battery can vary greatly, he says.

David Reiff, co-founder and vice president of uBreakiFix, a chain of electronics repair stores, says that battery life expectancy for some phones can be as low as 300 to 500 charging cycles, which means that some users may not make it through a year before their battery performance starts to drop.

Meanwhile, the rest of the phone could, in theory, last forever if you don’t break it, since there are no moving parts to wear out, Fisco says.

But few people keep their phones long enough to test that theory, because even if a phone works well it eventually becomes outdated.

“The reality is, the operating system and therefore the apps available for it change,” Fisco says, adding that older phones will stop getting operating system updates from the manufacturer, which could prevent you from using newer apps.

And manufacturers eventually stop supporting old phones altogether, which means no security updates, putting hold-out users at risk for a hack, he adds.

So, Is It Worth Replacing My Battery?

That depends, Fisco says.

“If you’re a heavy user and you wear out your battery in a year, or less, then get the battery replaced,” he says. But he thinks it might not be worth the effort to replace the battery on older phones. 

First, check to see if your phone is still under warranty. In the case of iPhones, Apple’s warranty covers you against manufacturer defects for a year. If the battery is experiencing significant problems in that time frame, the company may be willing to replace it.

And, if you shelled out for AppleCare+ when you bought your iPhone, Apple will replace the battery for free for two years if they find that it retains less than 80 percent of its capacity.

And, of course, once the $29 pricing kicks in, many consumers may find it worthwhile to just see whether replacing the battery improves their performance.

Often this can be done quickly with a visit to an Apple Store, but Apple warns that in some cases it could take several days.

Companies such as uBreakiFix, which operates more than 300 stores in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean, can do the replacement, too. Prices vary depending on the device—but you're not likely to find a better deal than what Apple is offering.

Can I DIY It?

In theory. But you won't save money by replacing an iPhone battery on your own—unless you have an older model that's not covered under Apple's new pricing.

If you do have an older iPhone, Amazon and other retailers sell kits that include a new battery and all the tools you’ll need. Replacement kits for an iPhone 5s battery sell for around $25 online.

But, this isn’t something that everyone will want to tackle. If you mess up, you risk bricking your phone. And, with more recent, water-resistant, phones breaking the seal yourself will make them susceptible to water damage.

Reiff from uBreakiFix also points out that doing this yourself will often void your warranty, though in most cases DIYers are repairing older phones where the warranties have already expired.

CR's Fisco urges caution. “If you are technically inclined, comfortable with small tools and devices and willing to risk breaking your phone then yes, you can DIY the battery replacement,” he says.

“Otherwise, get three price quotes from different repair shops and let them replace the battery.” 

Editor's Note: This article has been updated with new information about pricing for Apple battery replacements.

Copyright© 2006-2017 Consumer Reports, Inc. of U.S., Inc. No reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission.

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Apple is dropping the price of a battery replacement to just $29, in response to consumer complaints.

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Bree Fowler, Consumer Reports Digital

Three Deals from AT&T You Won’t Want to Miss

 

  • Get the latest smartphones for $0 down with AT&T Next  

    $0 down smartphones with AT&T Next1 — and no finance charges.

    Tax on sale prices due at sale. Req’s well-qual. credit, installment agmt & svc. If svc cancelled, device balance is due. Activation/upgrade (up to $25), other fees, charges, limits& restr’s appy.

  • Up to $650 in credits to switch to AT&T   

    Switch to AT&T now  and get up to $650 in credits per line to help you switch.2

    Each line req’s elig. port-in, trade-in, purch., & svc. $650= min. $5 trade-in credit/promo card (for AT&T products/svc only) + prepaid card (w/in 90 days) for device balance/early term. fee amount less trade-in. Fees, charges & restr’s apply.

  • Get a free LG K20 smartphone 

    Get the LG K20 for free — when you buy on AT&T Next with elig. Service (min $50/mo.)3

    Req’s $119.99 on installment agmt, new line & well qualified credit. Free after $119.99 in credits over 30 months. Credits start in 2 to 3 bills. If svc canceled, device balance (up to $119.99) due. Taxes, fees, limits & restr’s apply.

Plus, with the AT&T Signature Program Discounts through Union Plus4, union members can save on qualified wireless plans, select accessories and get waived activation fees on new lines of service from AT&T.

Don’t forget: reference discount code 3508840 to ensure you get the discount.

Learn More 

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1$0 DOWN: Req’s well-qualified credit. For smartphones only. Tax on sales price due at sale. Req’s AT&T Next or AT&T Next Every Year installment agmt. Divides sales price into monthly installments. Limit as low as 2 smartphones at $0 downService: Eligible postpaid voice and data service (minimum $50 per month for new customers, may be added to select existing plans which may be less) is required and extra. If svc is canceled, remaining installment agmt balance is due. Activ./Upgrade Fee: $25/line. No upgrade fee for line w/smartphone purchased on installment agmt prior to 8/1/15. Waiver of fee subject to change. Restocking Fee: Up to $45. Limits: Eligibility, device, line and financing limits & other restr’s apply. See att.com/next and your Retail Installment Agreement for full details. 

GEN. WIRELESS SVC: Subj. to Wireless Customer Agmt (att.com/wca). Deposit: may be req’d. Limits: Purch. and line limits apply. Prices vary by location. Credit approval, fees, monthly and other charges, usage, eligibility and other restrictions per line may apply. See att.com/additionalcharges for more details on other charges. Pricing and terms are subject to change and may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. You get an off-net (roaming) usage allowance for each service. If you exceed the allowance, your services may be restricted or terminated. Other restrictions apply and may result in service termination. For info on AT&T network management policies see att.com/broadbandinfo.

2SWITCH TO AT&T: Each line reqs an eligible port-in, trade-in, purchase, svc & final bill submission. Credits received may not equal all costs of switching. Elig. port-in: From eligible carrier (excludes Cricket & select others) on their term agmt or device plan (excludes 3rd party agmts). Must buy elig. smartphone in same transaction. Elig. Purchase/Svc: Smartphone on AT&T Next or AT&T Next Every Year installment agmt w/elig. svc (excludes prepaid, Lifeline, Residential Wireless and select discounted plans). Acct & svc must remain active & in good standing for 30 days. Tax due at sale. Down payment may be req’d. If svc is cancelled, installment agmt balance (up to $950) is due. Limit: Purch. limits apply. Trade-in: Select locations. Must be smartphone on line ported, be in good working condition w/min. $5 trade-in value & meet AT&T Trade-In program reqmts. Trade-in Credit: Instant credit or AT&T VISA Promotion Card issued by MetaBank™ or CenterState Bank of Florida NA, via license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. (may take 3 weeks to receive). Not redeemable for cash & non-transferable. Credit/Card valid for 5 months & for use only to purch. AT&T products & svc in AT&T owned retail stores, at att.com, or to pay wireless bill. Add’l cardholder terms & conditions apply & are provided w/Promotion Card. At dealers get credit (w/add’l terms) for use at dealer. Final Bill: Must go to att.com/helpyouswitch & upload or mail final bill w/in 60 days showing Early Termination Fee (ETF) or device plan balance (incl. lease purch. costs) on number ported. Final Credit: Total amount equals device balance/ETF (excludes taxes, fees, svc & other charges) up to $650 minus trade-in. Get up to $645 for device plan balance or up to $345 for ETF. W/in 4 wks after meet all elig. reqmts, will be mailed AT&T VISA Promotion Card issued by MetaBank™ or CenterState Bank of Florida NA, via license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Not redeemable for cash & non-transferable. For use at US locations where Visa cards are accepted through date printed on card (min. 150 days). Add’l cardholder terms & conditions apply & are provided w/Promotion Card. See att.com/switch for details.

GEN. WIRELESS SVC: Subj. to Wireless Customer Agmt (att.com/wca) or, for business customers, applicable wireless svc agmt. Svcs not for resale. Deposit may be reqd. Credit approval, activ., other fees, monthly, overage, other charges, usage, other restrs apply. Pricing & terms subject to change & may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Coverage & svc not avail. everywhere. You get an off-net (roaming) usage allowance for each svc. If you exceed the allowance, your svc(s) may be restricted or terminated. Other restrs apply & may result in svc termination.

3FREE LG K20: Ends 12/29/17. Online only. Not an upgrade offer. Elig. Device LG K20 on 0% APR AT&T Next (30 mos. at $4/mo.) or AT&T Next Every Year™ (24 mos. at $5/mo.) installment agmt. Tax on full retail price due at sale. Retail price is divided into monthly installments. After all credits, get LG K20 priced $119.99 for free. Wireless: Monthly postpaid voice & data req’d (existing customers can add to elig. current plans). If cancel svc you will owe remaining installment balance of up to $119.99. Bill Credit: Credits applied in equal amounts towards installment pymts over entire agmt term. Svc must remain active & in good standing and device must remain on its agmt w/elig. svc for entire term to get all credits. If upgrade or pay up/off agmt early your credits may cease. Limits: may not be combinable w/ credits, discounts & offers. Purchase, financing & other limits & restr’s apply. Participation in this offer may make your wireless account ineligible for select other offers (including select bill credit offers) for a 12 month period.

GEN. WIRELESS SVC: Subj. to Wireless Customer Agmt (att.com/wca). Credit approval req’d. Deposit: may apply. Limits: Purch. & line limits apply. Activation Fee: $25. Taxes, fees, monthly, other charges, usage, speed, coverage & other restr’s apply. See att.com/additionalcharges for details on fees & charges. Promotion, terms, & restr’s subject to change & may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. AT&T service is subject to AT&T network management policies. See att.com/broadbandinfo for details.

415% Svc Discount: Avail. only to current members of qual. AFL-CIO member unions. Must provide valid union membership card, paystub showing dues deduction, or union email address & also subscribe to svc under an individual account for which member is personally liable. Offer req’s elig. verification in AT&T stores or online. Discounts subject to an agmt between Union Plus and AT&T & may be interrupted, changed or discontinued w/out notice. Discount applies only to recurring mo. svc charge of qual. voice & data plans, not overages. Not avail. w/ unlim. voice or data plans. For all Mobile Share plans, applies only to the mo. plan charge of plans with 1GB or more, not to add’l mo. device access charges. Add’l restr’s apply. May take up to 3 bill cycles after elig. confirmed & won’t apply to prior charges. Discount applied after any avail. credit & may not be combined w/ other svc discounts. Visit unionplus.org/att or contact AT&T at 800-331-0500 for details.

20% Accs. Discount: AT&T will apply the Accessory Discount to the prices of select Accessories available through AT&T, which may be modified by AT&T from time to time. The term "Accessory" or "Accessories" means supplementary parts for Equipment (e.g. batteries, cases, earbuds). The Accessory Discount will not apply to Accessories purchased for use with datacentric Equipment such as modems, replacement SIM cards and car kits or to Apple-branded Accessories.

$25 Activation Waiver of fee: Subject to change and requires activation of new line of service of qualified wireless plan. Eligibility: Available only to qual. employees, students, & other authorized individuals who are affiliated with eligible companies, universities, associations, government agencies or other sponsoring organizations that have a qual. AT&T agmt. Qual. individuals must (a) be enrolled in the AT&T Signature Program and (b) buy a new smartphone (excludes Certified Like New) on AT&T Next or AT&T Next Every YearSM installment agmt w/ elig. postpaid monthly svc on an AT&T Unlimited Plus or AT&T Unlimited Choice plan, or other qual. postpaid plan (voice & data). New lines or upgrades. Fourteen (14) day return period, up to $45 restocking fee. Credit will be applied w/in 3 bill cycles; must be active & in good standing & enrolled in AT&T Signature Program to receive credit.

Summary

Don’t miss these three deals from AT&T — the only nationwide unionized wireless carrier.

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Union Plus Team

How to Use Your Fireplace Safely


Before you use your wood-burning fireplace this year, take the proper steps to get it ready.

If not well maintained, fireplace fires can get out of control and damage your property and/or cause personal injury. Help stay safe and cozy with these tips for preparing and using your fireplace.

Before You Start It Up
  • Have the chimney inspected. Highly combustible creosote — formed from the smoke, wood particles, gas and other by-products of a fire — is the main cause of chimney fires. To avoid buildup, have a chimney professional inspect and clean your chimney every year, whether you have a wood-burning fireplace, a wood stove or a gas fireplace. Use the Chimney Safety Institute of America to find certified chimney sweeps in your area.
  • Maintain the fireplace. Clean it in late summer or early fall to prepare for upcoming use. Scrub the walls, grate and andirons with a nylon brush, then sweep out any debris. Finish by wiping out the fireplace with water. 
  • Clear the area. Keep any seasonal and home decor items, such as rugs, throw pillows or furniture, away from the fireplace. (Also check that your rugs are nonflammable.)
  • Have a plan in place. It’s important to have a fire escape plan just in case anything goes wrong. Identify the exit routes nearest your fireplace and talk with your family about what to do in the event of a fire.
When in Use
  • Burn the right wood — and only wood. Dry, well-seasoned wood burns clean and leaves behind less creosote. Never burn painted or treated wood; this could create potentially dangerous fumes.
  • Safeguard against sparks. Use a fireplace screen to help prevent any sparks from leaving the fireplace and igniting your clothes or furniture.
  • Keep a safe distance. Your clothing can ignite if you sit or stand too close to the fireplace. If you have young children, consider using a safety gate.

After you prep your fireplace, it’s also a good idea to make sure your fire extinguisher is in working order. Keep it in a spot where you can grab it quickly — just in case.
 

These fireplace safety tips were brought by Union Plus Homeowners Insurance with MetLife Auto & Home®.

Save hundreds of dollars with competitive rates and special discounts just by being a union member. Call 855-666-5797 and mention Union Plus discount code DJ7.

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How To Use Your Fireplace Safely
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home® is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates:Economy Preferred Insurance Company, Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan General Insurance Company, Metropolitan Group Property andCasualty Insurance Company and Metropolitan Lloyds Insurance Company of Texas, all with administrative home offices in Warwick,RI. Coverage, rates and discounts and policy features vary by state and product, and are available in most states to those who qualify. Met P&C®, MetCasSM and MetGenSM are licensed in the state of MN.
© 2017 MetLife Auto & Home L0417493849[exp1018][All States][DC]

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Special Savings on Homeowners Insurance For Union Members
Summary

Get ready for a cozy season with these tips.

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MetLife Your Life

Real Christmas Trees: How to Prevent Fires


Fresh pine trees just add something to the season. But they can be fire hazards, so it’s important to take some precautions.

If live Christmas trees are your go-to, help keep your home fire-safe with these simple tips:

Measure Your Christmas Tree Stand so you Know how Large a Tree it can Handle

Freshness is key. A dry tree is more susceptible to catch fire. The best way to get the freshest tree is to cut it yourself. If that’s not an option, purchase one from a tree lot that sources trees.
Bounce the tree to test freshness. If a lot of needles fall, it’s likely too dry.
You also can crush a few needles in your hand — fresher trees have a strong pine scent.

Keep Your Tree Safe at Home

Trim a half inch off the tree’s trunk for the best water absorption, and water it as soon as possible.
Water your tree meticulously, especially in the first two days, when it can take almost a gallon of water daily.

Keep your tree at least 3 feet away from any heat sources, which cause one in six Christmas tree-related fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Remember Decorating Safety

Never use candles on or near your Christmas tree.
Inspect your lights before hanging them, and don’t connect more than three strings together.Turn Christmas tree lights off before you leave the house or go to sleep.

Know When to Say Goodbye

The drier the tree, the greater the fire hazard. Dispose of your tree no later than a month after Christmas. You’ll also spare yourself mounds of needles if you dispose of your tree shortly after the holiday.

These fire prevention tips were brought by Union Plus Homeowners Insurance with MetLife Auto & Home®.

Save hundreds of dollars with competitive rates and special discounts just by being a union member. Call 855-666-5797 and mention Union Plus discount code DJ7.

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Real Christmas Trees: How to Prevent Fires
Disclaimer

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates: Economy Preferred Insurance Company, Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan General Insurance Company, Metropolitan Group Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Metropolitan Lloyds Insurance Company of Texas, all with administrative home offices in Warwick,RI. Coverage, rates and discounts and policy features vary by state and product, and are available in most states to those who qualify. Met P&C®, MetCasSM and MetGenSM are licensed in the state of MN.

© 2017 MetLife Auto & Home L0417493849[exp1018][All States][DC]
 

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Special Savings on Homeowners Insurance For Union Members
Summary

Have a safe holiday season with these fire prevention tips for real Christmas trees!

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MetLife Your Life

Refinance Through Union Plus Mortgage Company

Smith’s penchant for efficiency is just one reason why she’s so good at her job – it’s also one reason why she was so disappointed by a prominent direct lending company that gave her the runaround when she tried to refinance her home mortgage.

“This summer, my husband and I approached this lender and we had said, ‘We need a no-cost refinance.’ And they said, ‘OK.’  But, then when the closing date came, they wanted almost $5,000! We said, ‘That’s not what we told you we could do. We can’t do that.’ They tried to come up with a different solution, but we’d still have to pay out of pocket. So, we said, ‘Forget it!’”

Smith and her husband had owned several homes in the past, so this wasn’t their first rodeo. Unfortunately, however, they had purchased their current home in northern Virginia in 2005, just before the first dominoes of The Great Recession began to fall.

“Soon, we were upside down on our mortgage and we couldn’t refinance; and to make matters worse, my husband lost his job in 2007 and was unemployed for almost a year,” said the AFSCME Local 3179 member of 25 years. “So, on my income alone, I wound up being able to modify my mortgage but they weren’t really good terms. Now, the market has improved and we have some equity in the home.”

After their summer re-fi attempt went south, a timely email from Union Plus caught Smith’s eye.

“The email was talking about Union Plus Mortgage Company. I thought, ‘Well, what have I got to lose?’ I filled out an inquiry form at unionplusmortgage.com. I called and spoke to a representative. I liked the way he was speaking to me and he was very forthcoming, telling me exactly what I needed to do. There was a little bit of back-and-forth over a short period. Then, he tells us, ‘OK, you’re all set. This is the closing date.’

The Smiths appreciated the swift and efficient process in refinancing their home through Union Plus Mortgage Company.

“Our experience with Union Plus Mortgage Company was one of the most pleasant experiences dealing with a lender we’ve ever had. Our agent was warm, responsive and professional, and never once did he promise anything he couldn’t deliver". 
The Union Plus Mortgage program, with financing available through Union Plus Mortgage Company, is available for all eligible union members. UPMC is union-owned and staffed by unionized loan officers.

For qualifying members, special benefits include:
• A $500 gift card after closing for purchasing or refinancing a home
• Special benefits for First-Time Home Buyers
• Special hardship mortgage assistance from Union Plus in the event of income loss due to disability, unemployment or strike/lockout.
 
For more information, visit unionplusmortgage.com or call 855 UNION 53 (855-864-6653).
NMLS Number 1561829
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Disclaimer

The AFL-CIO, Union Privilege and a group of unions own Union Plus Mortgage Company and will benefit if you get your loan through the company. However, you are not required to use Union Plus Mortgage for your loan and are free to shop. For your Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure Statement, please visit www.unionplusmortgage.com.


Union Plus Mortgage Company has a services agreement with Union Privilege in which Union Privilege receives a financial benefit for providing agreed upon services.
 

 

 

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Union Made Mortgages for Union Families
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As a litigation support specialist in the antitrust division of the U.S. Department of Justice, Melody Smith assists attorneys in preparing complex civil and criminal litigation using automated research software to identify and organize overwhelming numbers of legal documents and related data.
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Chocolate Safety for Dogs and Cats


Signs and Symptoms That Your Pet Ingested Chocolate

If a pet has ingested chocolate, the most common symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity (such as excitation, restlessness, or panting), tremors and convulsions, seizures, racing heart rate, and arrhythmia.

Why and How is Chocolate Toxic

Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, this chemical is the reason that chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. The more theobromine found in a product, the more toxic it is to a pet.

Chocolate Types: From Most Toxic to Least Toxic

Baking chocolate is the most toxic, followed by semisweet/dark chocolate, then milk chocolate, and lastly white chocolate (which contains an insignificant amount of theobromine).

How Much Chocolate Will Poison My Dog or Cat?

Toxic doses of theobromine are 9 milligrams per pound. Meaning that a 20-pound animal would need to eat 8.2 ounces of milk chocolate, or just 0.9 ounces of baking chocolate to achieve a toxic dose.

Reduce the Risk

To help reduce the chance of your pet eating chocolate, be sure to keep chocolate-products in out of reach areas for pets. Cats are more finicky about what they eat and probably won’t eat chocolate that is left out but dogs actually like the smell and taste of chocolate, so you need to be much more careful with them.

What to do if Your Dog or Cat Eats Chocolate

If you suspect or know that your pet has eaten chocolate, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

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Unexpected veterinary visits can be expensive but that’s where pet insurance can help, by reimbursing on the veterinary bills.
Summary

While it’s fairly common knowledge that chocolate is bad for dogs, many people don’t realize that chocolate is also bad for cats. 

Learn why chocolate is bad for both dogs and cats, which chocolate is the most dangerous, and signs and symptoms that your pet has ingested chocolate.

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Pet Health Insurance Team