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Allstate to Open Full-Service Agent Offices at Auto Dealerships Across the Country

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:05:00 -0600

Customers enjoy 'one-stop-shop' option for comprehensive, affordable insurance
This release contains: 1 Related Document

The next time a consumer buys a car from a dealer, they may be able to insure their new car, home and discuss their insurance protection needs with an Allstate agent before they drive off the lot. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Dealer Services announced today that auto dealers have the opportunity to open full-service Allstate agencies inside their dealerships.

"Allstate's dealer program seamlessly integrates the purchase and service of a vehicle with the opportunity to price your auto insurance with Allstate and work with a licensed insurance professional on all your coverage needs in a way that's never been done before," said Mark LaNeve, Allstate senior executive vice president and chief marketing officer. "Our agency owners are at the heart of Allstate's business and this program allows us to attract new customers at a time and location that's convenient for the customer."

Agency offices will be placed inside the dealership, typically on the showroom floor and operate during regular hours of the dealership. Licensed insurance professionals and a team of support staff employed by the agency owner will be onsite to help customers assess their insurance portfolio and help make sure they have the protection they want. The program combines the power of an Allstate Exclusive Agency, a Good Hands® Network Repair Facility and Allstate Dealer Service products with dealer F&I offerings and the ability to integrate Allstate Benefits into the dealer's employee benefits platform.

"Many times there is a short waiting time between when a customer purchases a car and when they drive off the lot. During this time, the customer can talk with a licensed insurance professional about their insurance needs not only for their new vehicle, but also their home and other protection needs," said Doug Herberger, president of Allstate Dealer Services. "With a continued focus on our partners, we are bringing Allstate's suite of products and services to the consumer and giving auto dealers an opportunity to deepen their relationship with customers."

Allstate and Allstate Dealer Services tested and modified this unique program during the past two years with Allstate agents in 11 dealerships around the country. The pilot revealed that the dealer program delivers the convenience of a one-stop-shop, the comprehensive and affordable coverage and the face-to-face interaction customers want.

"We have been extremely impressed with the Allstate program," states Randall Reed, president and CEO of World Class Automotive Group. His Houston, Texas dealership Plant 45 Ford is a participating member of the pilot program. "The relationship allows us to leverage our product offerings with the strong suite of F&I products and repair network of Allstate which has helped us to increase profitability. The expansion of our relationship with Allstate to include an on-site, full service Allstate insurance agency differentiates us from our competition. And our customers love it."

Dealers interested in learning more about this industry-leading program can visit Allstate Dealer Services at booth #772 at the NADA Conference in Las Vegas, February 3-6, 2012. Dealers can also contact Allstate Dealer Services directly at 904-992-6185 with any program questions.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

# # #

Contact:

Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600
@AllstateNews on Twitter

Are you ready for some football?

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:25:00 -0600

Allstate Offers Safety and Insurance Protection Tips Prior to Super Bowl
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind., will be held on Sunday, Feb. 5, and what will many Americans be doing? Hosting or attending a Super Bowl party as the Giants take on the Patriots! No one wants to spoil the fun of the big game, so Allstate Insurance Company is recommending tips to prepare and protect party hosts and guests getting ready for the Super Bowl.

Many party hosts don't think about the liability risks that accompany a party. In some states, a host could be held liable if a guest is injured on his or her property. A host may also be liable if a guest has too much to drink and something happens. Fortunately, there are ways for hosts to protect themselves:

Worried about a raucous guest falling and injuring himself in your home? Check your homeowners policy to make sure you have personal liability protection that provides adequate coverage for your home and assets. Liability protection provides coverage when others are injured or have sustained damage to their property for which you are responsible. If an accident in your home does happen, make sure the injured persons are comfortable and call for medical assistance if needed.
What if that guest breaks your pricey antique vase in his fall - will your insurance replace it? Protect your home valuables - like fine art, collectibles or sporting equipment - with a scheduled personal property endorsement to your homeowners policy. Scheduled personal property provides protection for loss or damage to personal property items not always covered under traditional homeowners policies.
Protect yourself and your guests. Provide non-alcoholic beverages to guests and don't let drunk or drowsy guests drive home.

The party's over, and your team won! Now, all you have to do is drive home and revel in your team's victory. Unfortunately, drunk and drowsy drivers on the road with you could make your happy drive home a dangerous one. To protect your family traveling home after the big game:

Don't drink and drive. If you know you will be drinking alcohol, use a designated driver or public transportation. Many cities even offer safe ride home programs.
If you spot an impaired driver on the highway, maintain a safe following distance and don't attempt to pass.
Report a suspected drunk driver immediately to area law enforcement from your car phone or a pay phone. Give police as much information (i.e., license plate number, make, model and color of vehicle, direction vehicle is traveling, physical description of driver) as possible.
Allow enough travel time, especially when traveling long distances. Drowsiness can reduce reaction time almost as much as drinking.
Don't drive when you are sleepy.
Stop driving if you become sleepy while on the road.

Please contact your local Allstate agent for more information on choosing the right auto or homeowners policy.

About the Allstate Corporation
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

####

Contact: John Heid
Email: john.heid@allstate.com
Phone Number: (678) 589-6102

Allstate Reports Strong Fourth Quarter 2011 Earnings and Continued Progress On Strategic Commitments to Improve Shareholder Value

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:00:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2011.

http://www.allstateinvestors.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=93125&p=irol-qii2011

Statement on Teen Safe Driving Provisions in House Transportation and Infrastructure Bill

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:20:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

We commend Chairman John Mica and members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for including critical safety provisions for young drivers in federal transportation legislation pending before Congress. The highway bill being considered in the House includes a critical commitment to graduated driving licensing (GDL) standards for young drivers, and makes important strides in incentivizing states to protect teens and educate them about safe driving practices.

As the process unfolds, it's important for Congress to recognize the need for a comprehensive set of approaches to youth driving safety as the most effective method to save young lives and save billions of dollars in costs related to traffic accidents involving teen drivers. While the legislation addresses and includes some very important GDL provisions, the legislation should ensure all of the following: 1) restricted licensure until age 18; 2) strengthened guidelines for nighttime driving; 3) passenger restrictions; and 4) a strong provision banning the use of cell phones and other mobile devices while driving for teens. Greater incentives for states to enact strong GDL provisions would also help to advance safer driving among our nation's young people.

We are encouraged that members of Congress from both sides of the aisle recognize the importance of a teen safe driving provision in federal transportation legislation and we strongly support the process moving forward. We will continue to work with members to ensure the strongest bill with the most protection possible for our nation's young drivers.

For additional information or to make your voice heard on teen safe driving issues, please visit www.facebook.com/save11.

Contact:
Brian Faith
(847) 402-0899

Protect Your Belongings with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:01:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Americans overwhelmingly value home protection, yet many lack the proper knowledge and documentation to protect their possessions, including newly acquired holiday gifts. This comes from new research by Allstate Insurance Company, which also found that most Americans consistently employ safety precautions – such as locking doors and windows (92 percent) and testing smoke detectors (78 percent) – but fall short of home inventories.

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly"or "somewhat"increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

Goodies in the Home

Although most Americans say they have valuables and collections in their homes, many aren't familiar with what they are worth and aren't financially equipped to replace their belongings if stolen or damaged.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very"or "not at all"confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21 percent) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52 percent) report keeping receipts for "all"or "most"significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year – some even more than 10 years – to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Allstate offers What's Your Stuff Worth? to help assess how much your belongings are worth and make real-world comparisons of costs to cover your things. Available in English at allstate.com and in Spanish at miallstate.com, the interactive tool walks consumers through typical rooms in a home and helps count the number of items and their estimated value. It's easy to see how everyday possessions - from lamps to clothing - add up quickly.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?

Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings – also known as a home inventory – citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very"or "somewhat"important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very"or "somewhat"detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time"or "most of the time"after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

Allstate® Digital LockerTM, available online at DigitalLocker.com and as a mobile app for iPhone, iPod Touch, and Android, guides consumers through creating a detailed home inventory stored securely in a pocket and online. Upload photos, tag items, and organize by room, so all the information you need is right at your fingertips should you ever need to make a claim. Best of all, Digital Locker provides free and password-protected online storage, keeping your inventory free from the same perils that might have caused a claim.

About the Survey

This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

About Allstate

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®"slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
kari.mather@allstate.com

Protect Your Belongings with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:00:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

Goodies in the Home
Although most Americans say they have valuables and collections in their homes, many aren't familiar with what they are worth and aren't financially equipped to replace their belongings if stolen or damaged.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21 percent) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52 percent) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year – some even more than 10 years – to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?
Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings – also known as a home inventory – citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very" or "somewhat" important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About the Survey
This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
kari.mather@allstate.com

Protect Your Belongings with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:59:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

Goodies in the Home
Although most Americans say they have valuables and collections in their homes, many aren't familiar with what they are worth and aren't financially equipped to replace their belongings if stolen or damaged.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21 percent) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52 percent) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year – some even more than 10 years – to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?
Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings – also known as a home inventory – citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very" or "somewhat" important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About the Survey
This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
kari.mather@allstate.com

The Allstate Foundation Drives Social Change in 2011

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:59:00 -0600

The Good Hands people gave $38,500 to build safe, strong communities in Utah
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Ending domestic violence was just one cause championed by The Allstate Foundation last year. More than $17.5 million from the Foundation supported the work of local and national nonprofits in 2011 to build safe, diverse and financially strong communities.

Since 2005, The Allstate Foundation has worked to end domestic violence. In 2011, the Foundation's leadership on this issue was demonstrated locally through partnerships with The Erin Kimball Memorial Foundation, Inc. and Salt Lake City in Utah.

"We take our role as a corporate citizen seriously and focus on social issues where we make real change in local communities," said Field Senior Vice President Denis Bailey."Helping a victim of domestic violence build her way to financial security demonstrates our good hands work and our commitment to improving everyday life of American families."

In addition to addressing the domestic violence, the Foundation also supports a number of partnerships focused on promoting: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion and diversity; and economic empowerment.

Of the $38,500 the Foundation gave in Utah in 2011:

Sixty-nine percent helped victims of domestic violence get free and stay free from abuse by achieving financial independence.
Thirty-one percent funded programs that revitalize neighborhoods, build strong communities, assist with catastrophe response, teach tolerance to youth or alleviate discrimination.

During the Foundation's 60-year history, it has invested nearly $300 million in communities across the country to address key social issues. The first grant cycle of 2012 is now open. Organizations interested in learning more about the Foundation's grant programs can visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
@AllstateSW

Protect Your Belongings with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:58:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21 percent) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52 percent) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year – some even more than 10 years – to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?
Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings – also known as a home inventory – citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very" or "somewhat" important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About Allstate

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

# # #

Contact:
Kari Mather
602-631-6248
kari.mather@allstate.com

The Allstate Foundation Drives Social Change in 2011

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:58:00 -0600

The Good Hands people gave $37,000 to build safe, strong communities in Oklahoma
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Since 2005, The Allstate Foundation has worked keep teen drivers safe on the road. In 2011, the Foundation's leadership on was demonstrated locally through a partnership with Ada High School in Oklahoma.

"We take our role as a corporate citizen seriously and focus on social issues where we make real change in local communities," said Field Senior Vice President Denis Bailey. "Educating teens to behave more responsibly on the road demonstrates our good hands work and our commitment to improving everyday life of American families."

In addition to addressing teen safe driving issues, the Foundation also supports a number of partnerships focused on promoting: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion and diversity; and economic empowerment.

Of the $37,000 the Foundation gave in Oklahoma in 2011:

Twenty-seven percent went to creating awareness about the dangers of risky driving and instilling a lifetime of teen safe driving behaviors for American teens.
Seventy-three percent funded programs that revitalize neighborhoods, build strong communities, assist with catastrophe response, teach tolerance to youth or alleviate discrimination.

During the Foundation's 60-year history it has invested nearly $300 million in communities across the country to address key social issues. The first grant cycle of 2012 is now open. Organizations interested in learning more about the Foundation's grant programs can visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

# # #

Contact:
Kari Mather
602-631-6248
@AllstateSW

The Allstate Foundation Drives Social Change in 2011

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:54:00 -0600

The Good Hands people gave $16,000 to build safe, strong communities in Nevada
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Supporting teen safe driving habits was just one cause championed by The Allstate Foundation last year. More than $17.5 million from the Foundation supported the work of local and national nonprofits in 2011 to build safe, diverse and financially strong communities.

Since 2005, The Allstate Foundation has worked to keep teen drivers safe on the road. In 2011, the Foundation's leadership on the issue was demonstrated locally through a partnership with the PTA Nevada Congress.

In addition to addressing teen safe driving, the Foundation also supports a number of partnerships focused on promoting: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion and diversity; and economic empowerment.

Of the $16,000 the Foundation gave in Nevada in 2011:

Six percent went to creating awareness about the dangers of risky driving and instilling a lifetime of teen safe driving behaviors for American teens.
Ninety-four percent funded programs that revitalize neighborhoods, build strong communities, assist with catastrophe response, teach tolerance to youth or alleviate discrimination.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
@AllstateSW

Protect Your Belongings with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:54:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21 percent) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52 percent) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year – some even more than 10 years – to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?

Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings – also known as a home inventory – citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very" or "somewhat" important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About the Survey

This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

About Allstate

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
kari.mather@allstate.com

The Allstate Foundation Drives Social Change in 2011

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:52:00 -0600

The Good Hands people gave $421,500 to build safe, strong communities in Arizona
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Ending domestic violence and supporting teen safe driving habits were just two causes championed by The Allstate Foundation last year. More than $17.5 million from the Foundation supported the work of local and national nonprofits in 2011 to build safe, diverse and financially strong communities.

Since 2005, The Allstate Foundation has worked to end domestic violence and keep teen drivers safe on the road. In 2011, the Foundation's leadership on these two issues was demonstrated locally through partnerships with Health World of Scottsdale, Ltd., Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Inc., Chicanos por la Causa, Inc., YWCA of Tucson, Kingman Aid to Abused People, Northland Family Help Center and Soroptimist International of the Americas, Inc. in Arizona.

"We take our role as a corporate citizen seriously and focus on social issues where we make real change in local communities," said Field Senior Vice President Denis Bailey. "Whether it's a teen behaving more responsibly on the road, a child finding a safe place to play or a victim of domestic violence building her way to financial security, our good hands work is reflected in the everyday life of American families."

In addition to addressing the domestic violence and teen safe driving issues, the Foundation also supports a number of partnerships focused on promoting: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion and diversity; and economic empowerment.

Of the $421,500 the Foundation gave in Arizona in 2011:

Fourteen percent went to creating awareness about the dangers of risky driving and instilling a lifetime of teen safe driving behaviors for 1.3 million American teens.
Twenty-three percent helped victims of domestic violence get free and stay free from abuse by achieving financial independence.
Sixty-three percent funded programs that revitalize neighborhoods, build strong communities, assist with catastrophe response, teach tolerance to youth or alleviate discrimination.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
@AllstateSW

The Allstate Foundation Drives Social Change in 2011

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:00:00 -0600

The Good Hands people gave $121,500 to build safe, strong communities in New Mexico
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Since 2005, The Allstate Foundation has worked to end domestic violence. In 2011, the Foundation's leadership was demonstrated locally through partnerships with La Casa, Inc., and Women's Economic Self-Sufficiency Team Corp., in New Mexico.

In addition to addressing domestic violence, the Foundation also supports a number of partnerships focused on promoting: safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion and diversity; and economic empowerment.

Of the $121,500 the Foundation gave in New Mexico in 2011:

Fifty-two percent helped victims of domestic violence get free and stay free from abuse by achieving financial independence.
Forty-eight percent funded programs that revitalize neighborhoods, build strong communities, assist with catastrophe response, teach tolerance to youth or alleviate discrimination.

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
@AllstateSW

Protect Holiday Gifts with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:10:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Americans overwhelmingly value home protection, yet many lack the proper knowledge and documentation to protect their possessions, including newly acquired holiday gifts. This comes from new research by Allstate Insurance Company, which also found that most Americans consistently employ safety precautions - such as locking doors and windows (92 percent) and testing smoke detectors (78 percent) - but fall short of home inventories.

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

Goodies in the Home
Although most Americans say they have valuables and collections in their homes, many aren't familiar with what they are worth and aren't financially equipped to replace their belongings if stolen or damaged.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21%) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52%) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year - some even more than 10 years - to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Home Inventories: Are you the 39 percent?
Americans clearly see value in a catalog of their belongings - also known as a home inventory - citing benefits such as item replacement after a loss, tracking belongings, proof of ownership, identifying stolen or lost items and easing the recovery process. Nearly nine-in-10 Americans believe a home inventory is "very" or "somewhat" important in ensuring their belongings are protected, but only 39 percent of Americans have ever made one.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About the Survey
This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
Kristen Beaman
972-871-6656
Kristen.beaman@allstate.com

Allstate to Close Chalkville Mobile Claims Center TODAY at 5 p.m.

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:55:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate (NYSE: ALL) will close the Mobile Claims Center set up in the Publix Parking lot, 5150 Old Springville Road, Chalkville, Ala., 35126, today at 5 p.m. CT.

The current Allstate Mobile Claims Center locations as of Jan. 30, 2012, are listed below. The locations of these units are subject to change. For an updated list of locations visit www.allstate.com/catastrophe/Mobile-Response-Units.aspx

Allstate policyholders whose homes or automobiles have been damaged or destroyed by last week's tornados in the Birmingham area can still file a claim by calling 1-800-54-STORM, logging onto Allstate.com anytime, or by visiting the Mobile Claims Center in Chalkville before 5 p.m. CT today.

The Allstate Corporation
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

###

Contact: John Heid
Email: john.heid@allstate.com
Phone Number: (678) 589-6102

Allstate to Close Mobile Claims Center in Clay at 5 p.m. on Thursday

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:42:00 -0600

Chalkville location to Remain Open
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate (NYSE: ALL) has set up two Mobile Claims Centers in the Birmingham area to help policyholders affected by today's storm begin the claims process as soon as possible. The self-contained, specially-equipped units are staffed with members of the Allstate National Catastrophe Team to assist policyholders in the areas hardest hit by the storms.

The current Allstate Mobile Claims Center locations as of Jan. 23, 2012, are listed below. The locations of these units are subject to change. For an updated list of locations visit www.allstate.com/catastrophe/Mobile-Response-Units.aspx

Publix parking lot, 5150 Old Springville Road, Chalkville, Ala., 35126
Piggly Wiggly parking lot, 6730 Deerfoot Parkway, Clay, Ala., 35126 (To close at 5 p.m. on Jan. 26, 2012).

Hours of operation for all the Mobile Claims Centers are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Allstate policyholders whose homes or automobiles have been damaged or destroyed by the recent storm can contact Allstate by calling 1-800-54-STORM, visiting a Mobile Claims Center, or logging onto Allstate.com.

Contact:
John Heid
john.heid@allstate.com
(678) 589-6102

Allstate Insurance Named Top 25 Workplaces for Women

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:55:00 -0600

Allstate Named One of the Top 25 Workplaces For Women in Arizona by BestCompaniesAZ and AZ Magazine
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate Insurance Co., was recognized as one of the Top 25 Workplaces For Women by BestCompaniesAZ and will appear in the March issue of az magazine. Top 25 Workplaces for Women recognizes Allstate for its dynamic workplace that empowers leadership, diversity and innovation for women in Arizona.

"It is an honor to be awarded as a top workplace for woman," said Human Resources Business Partner Tracy Rodriguez. "We encourage leadership and innovation from all of our employees. Having such invaluable women work for Allstate is one of the major factors to growing and maintaining our success."

Allstate employees receive a number of benefits, including the following:

LifeWorks Employee Resource Program –free resources to better balance work and personal lives
Childcare Discounts
Buckle Up Baby Program – free infant car seats
Adoption reimbursement - financial aid associated with the legal adoption of a child less than 18 years of age
ConSern Education Program – employees or family members have access to a wide range of private and federal education loan options
Flexible work options

In addition to race and gender, Allstate acknowledges and values the ways in which its workface is different including age, national origin, sexual orientation, physical ability, religion, family status, work and life styles.

"By spotlighting Arizona's Top 25 workplaces for woman we can raise awareness of issues women face in the workplace and encourage Arizona companies to implement many of the best practices of the top 25," says Cami Kaiser, general manager of Republic Media.

Kaiser also says, "As the competition for employees begins to intensify in 2011, being named one of Arizona's Top 25 Workplaces for Women can serve as a great recruiting and retention tool."

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics released in 2011, women significantly impact the economy. Fifty-one percent of women are in management or professional-related positions and 46 percent of women are in the labor force. Sixty percent of employees are women at Allstate in Arizona and 42 percent of management employees are females.

For more than four years, az magazine has honored the "Top 25 Workplaces for Women" in Arizona, recognizing employers that have set the standard for women initiatives in the workplace.

The Top 25 Workplaces for Women were selected by an independent panel of judges based on benefits and programs offered to employees, dedication to a female-friendly workplace, company culture and the leadership roles of women in the workplace.

About Allstate Insurance Company:
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

About AZ Magazine:
AZ magazine is a product of Republic Media, an innovative, multi-platform media company that helps businesses navigate the advertising world. Encompassing an array of products including The Arizona Republic, azcentral.com and lifestyle magazines, Republic Media reaches more than 1.7 million Phoenix area adults each week and provides comprehensive marketing strategies that get results. To learn more about az magazine contact Cami Kaiser at 602-444-4899. To subscribe to az magazine, visit www.azmagazine.azcentral.com.

About BestCompaniesAZ, Consulting Partner
BestCompaniesAZ is dedicated to identifying, developing and promoting great companies and workplaces in Arizona. Services include employee opinion surveys, best practice benchmarking, employment branding, recruitment strategies, and award consultation and promotional services for Arizona's Best Companies. To learn more about BestCompaniesAZ statewide programs and events, visit www.bestcompaniesaz.com or call 480-545-5151.

# # #

Contact: Zach Solomon-Beloin
602-631-6339

Jefferson County Homeowners Finding Relief After Monday's Storms

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:24:00 -0600

Allstate Brings Mobile Claims Centers to Chalkville, Clay
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Publix parking lot, 5150 Old Springville Road, Chalkville, Ala., 35126
Piggly Wiggly parking lot, 6730 Deerfoot Parkway, Clay, Ala., 35126

Hours of operation for all the Mobile Claims Centers are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Allstate Corporation

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

###

Contact: John Heid
Email: john.heid@allstate.com
Phone Number: (678) 589-6102

Allstate Offers Insurance Claims Help for Customers Affected by Reno Wildfire

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:34:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate is committed to helping residents begin the rebuilding process following the Reno wildfire and has sent additional claims adjusters and resources into affected areas to help customers begin the claims process.

Allstate customers whose homes or automobiles have been damaged or destroyed by this wildfire, or were ordered by civil authorities to leave their homes can easily file a claim using one of the following methods:

Visit Allstate claims personnel on-site at the Mobile Claims Center:

1001 Steamboat Parkway in Reno
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Monday - Tuesday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Call or visit an Allstate agent
Call Allstate at 1-800-547-8676
Report a claim online at Allstate.com

In addition, Allstate is providing the following tips for homeowners when returning to their homes in the fire affected areas:

Review your homeowners policy for additional living expense coverage. Customers who were ordered to leave their homes by civil authorities may be eligible for Additional Living Expenses (ALE). Please check your homeowner policy to see what coverage it provides. If you have any questions, please contact your agent or adjuster.

Make necessary temporary repairs. Check your policy to see if it provides reimbursement for temporary repairs that are needed as a result of the fire to prevent further loss. Keep an accurate, detailed record of temporary repair costs to submit to your adjuster for possible reimbursement.

Review your automobile policy. Talk to your agent to determine whether or not your auto insurance policy provides coverage if your vehicle is damaged by fire.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Protect Holiday Gifts with a Home Inventory and Insurance Smarts

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:45:00 -0600

Allstate Research Shows Americans Need to Do More to Protect Their Belongings
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Americans overwhelmingly value home protection, yet many lack the proper knowledge and documentation to protect their possessions, including newly acquired holiday gifts. This comes from new research by Allstate Insurance Company, which also found that most Americans consistently employ safety precautions - such as locking doors and windows (92 percent) and testing smoke detectors (78 percent) - but fall short of home inventories.

As US Census data shows an increasing household size, Allstate's research reveals one-third of Americans (33 percent) have "significantly" or "somewhat" increased household possessions over the past two years. Despite this, few are adding to their insurance protection with increased coverage (20 percent) or a lower deductible (8 percent). Forty-two percent of Americans have made at least one major purchase within the past two years, yet almost half of those (45 percent) never contacted their insurance company to discuss coverage for those purchases. Furthermore, fewer than two-in-three (62 percent) Americans who say they have valuable items in their homes also said they have insurance coverage for them.

Goodies in the Home
Although most Americans say they have valuables and collections in their homes, many aren't familiar with what they are worth and aren't financially equipped to replace their belongings if stolen or damaged.

The vast majority of Americans acknowledge having valuables in their homes, including electronics (76 percent), jewelry (46 percent), collections (33 percent), antiques (27 percent) and artwork (26 percent).
- One in three Americans maintain a collection, citing such collectibles as coins, art, sports memorabilia, jewelry, shoes, guns, stamps, music and comic books.
Nearly one in four Americans (23 percent) admits not knowing how much their belongings are worth.
Thirty five percent are "not very" or "not at all" confident in their ability to recall every replaceable item in their home from memory.
One-in-five Americans (21%) have not kept any receipts for major household items, while just over half (52%) report keeping receipts for "all" or "most" significant purchases.
Nearly four-in-five Americans (79 percent) say it would take longer than a year - some even more than 10 years - to replace all their possessions without insurance.
- Fifteen percent say they would never be able to replace all their belongings without insurance.

Young Americans aged 18 to 29 and those with household incomes under $50,000 are the least likely to have a home inventory, with 17 percent and 28 percent respectively having created one.
While 85 percent of those with home inventories characterize their lists as "very" or "somewhat" detailed, fewer than one in three (32 percent) include appraisals and under half (48 percent) include purchase dates and locations. Only about two-thirds include receipts, product descriptions and pictures (67 percent, 65 percent and 64 percent, respectively) and 57 percent include purchase prices.
Most home inventory keepers store them in a safe location, such as a fire-proof or water-proof safe (34 percent), outside their home (27 percent), or electronically (eight percent). However, some may be keeping it in places susceptible to the same perils as their home. 13 percent store it at home but not in a safe, 7 percent say it's on their computer but not online, and 11 percent don't know where it's stored.
For those who have a home inventory, fewer than half (43 percent) report updating "every time" or "most of the time" after new purchases, and one-third (34 percent) haven't ever discussed their inventory with their insurance company.
Of the majority of Americans without home inventories, more than half (51 percent) say it's because they've never thought to conduct one, 18 percent say they don't have enough valuables to need one, 10 percent think it would be too complicated, nine percent don't think it helpful and six percent don't know where to start.

About the Survey
This survey of Americans age 18 and over was conducted by phone December 3-6, 2011, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. The margin of error for the national sample of residents is ±3.1 percent. The survey was conducted by FTI Consulting, Inc. (FTI) for Allstate.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
Laura Strykowski
(847) 402-5600
Laura.Strykowski@allstate.com

Filing a Damage Claim in the Wake of a Catastrophe

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:10:00 -0600

Allstate Provides Jefferson County Consumers Simple Steps for Recovery from This Morning’s Storms
This release contains: 1 Related Document

As it becomes safe to do so, Allstate (NYSE: ALL) suggests homeowners carefully inspect their homes after a catastrophe for damage. Allstate policyholders whose homes or automobiles have been damaged by the storms, and possibly tornados, that struck the Birmingham area this morning, can start the claim process by calling their local agent or 1-800 Allstate (800-255-7828), or by logging on to http://www.Allstate.com.

10 Tips for Catastrophe Recovery from Allstate …

Make sure your home is structurally safe. If your home has sustained serious structural damage, be extremely careful and be sure it is safe to be inside the home.
Make reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Save the receipts for temporary home repairs as these expenses may be reimbursed as part of your homeowner’s policy. Your adjuster will need this information.
If your home is uninhabitable, review your policy to find out what additional living expenses your insurance policy may provide. Keep any receipts for expenses that may be reimbursed as part of your homeowners policy.
Assist claims adjusters assigned to your case.
Notify creditors if bills have been lost or you’re unable to pay.
Prepare to file an insurance claim by gathering all relevant Allstate policy numbers.
Report possible claims promptly.
Ask your utility company to stop service if your home is uninhabitable or has been destroyed.
Inventory your home and list damaged items before your adjuster arrives. An inventory can help facilitate the claim process after a disaster.
Work with a qualified tax expert to find out about tax breaks you may be eligible for because of your catastrophe losses.

The Allstate Corporation
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Allstate Offers Reno Homeowners Advice During Wildfire Evacuations

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:32:00 -0600

Important Evacuation Information
This release contains: 1 Related Document

With the wildfire burning in Reno, Allstate (NYSE: ALL) is already responding and bringing resources into the area to help policyholders. Allstate has mobilized claims adjusters and additional resources to the area to assist customers with the claims process.

Call or visit an Allstate agent
Call Allstate at 1-800-547-8676
Report a claim online at Allstate.com
The Allstate Mobile Claims Center is being deployed to Reno and is expected to arrive this weekend--contact Kari Mather for the most up-to-date information

To ensure safe evacuation, it's vital to listen to instructions from local authorities. If nearby residents have been evacuated, or if evacuations may soon be a possibility, homeowners should prepare immediately for a quick departure. If it is safe to do so, Allstate encourages homeowners to consider the following steps when preparing to evacuate.

Before leaving the home…

Collect all important papers and documents. This includes banking, insurance, and financial information, as well as bills and checkbooks.
Think carefully about what items are easily replaceable by insurance and what items are not, like family heirlooms, keepsakes, and pictures.
If you don't have an up-to-date home inventory, walk through your home with a video or still camera. At the same time, make a list of what items you want to take during an evacuation. An inventory can help facilitate the claim process.
Contact your Allstate agent to determine whether your homeowners policy provides for additional living expenses if you've been evacuated from your home under mandatory orders.

If leaving the home…

Respect local authorities and law enforcement decisions on when to evacuate and when it is safe to return home.
Notify neighbors and friends of your intended destination, and exchange contact information.

Contact:
Kari Mather
602-284-4087 (cell)
@AllstateSW

Allstate Offers Consumers Tips to Prepare for Tornado Season

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:49:00 -0600

Tips Help to Ensure Safety and Minimize Damage
This release contains: 1 Related Document

While spring may be a few weeks away yet, it's the perfect time to prepare for the potential for tornados. The Southeast Region was hit hard by tornados last spring, and the images of the damaged caused in Tuscaloosa, Ala., North Georgia and Raleigh are still fresh on the minds of many.

While no one can predict exactly where a tornado will touch down, Allstate (NYSE: ALL) encourages homeowners to be prepared and protect their home and possessions in the event of a natural disaster.

As an industry leader in catastrophe response, Allstate offers the following loss prevention tips to help consumers to protect themselves, their homes and their businesses from damage:

Create an Emergency Plan

After you have learned about the risks that may affect your community, talk to your family about those risks and the general risks of fire and severe weather. Discuss how to respond to each disaster. Get everyone involved.
Draw a floor plan and mark two safe rooms or areas that family members can go during a tornado, such as a room with no windows or a basement. Rehearse your emergency plan twice a year.
Remember to have only appropriately-aged family members safely shut off water, gas and electricity at the main switches.
Post emergency telephone numbers near each phone and teach children to use them.
Tell family members how to use the radio to listen for emergency information.
Consider purchasing and using a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather Radio in your home during the storm seasons to receive important weather warnings.
Designate a local and out-of-town contact for your family members to call in case you're separated. Long-distance calls are sometimes easier to make during a local emergency.
Collect all important papers and documents. This includes banking, insurance, and financial information, as well as bills and checkbook.
If you don't have an up-to-date home inventory, walk through your home with a video or still camera. An inventory can help facilitate the claim process.

Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit

Make household members aware of where supplies are stored. Use an easy-to-carry container such as a backpack, duffel bag or covered trash container. In the kit, consider including items such as:

A three-day supply of water, including a gallon of water per person per day.
Nonperishable food and a manual can opener.
A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes for each family member.
Blankets or sleeping bags, a first-aid kit with essential prescription medications.
Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
Credit cards and cash or travelers checks.
Place important paperwork in waterproof containers. Include financial information, important phone numbers, wills, insurance policies, immunization records, and passports.
Baby items, extra glasses, contact lenses, extra set of car keys, etc.

Prepare Your Home

Depending on where you live, consider the following measure to prepare your home in advance for potential disasters:

Fasten shelves securely; secure water heaters by strapping them to wall studs.

Allstate agents and The Allstate Foundation work with consumers and communities year-round to help reduce the risk posed by natural disasters and prepare to recover quickly if a disaster strikes. For additional disaster-related information, consumers can visit Allstate's catastrophe information center at Allstate.com. The site contains useful information and tips on what to do before, during, and after a catastrophe.

Contact your local Allstate agent for more information on this topic.

###

Contact:

John Heid
Email: john.heid@allstate.com
Phone Number: (678) 589-6102

The Allstate Foundation Awards $296,500 to Ohio Community Organizations

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:38:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

The Allstate Foundation, a charitable organization focused on fostering strong communities, awarded grants totaling $296,500 to Ohio organizations in 2011. The Allstate Foundation supported several community organizations that address its focus areas of safe and vital communities, economic empowerment, and tolerance, inclusion, and diversity.

"Allstate is proud to support so many worthwhile causes in Ohio through The Allstate Foundation," said Allstate Field Senior Vice President Thomas F. Clarkson. "We believe it's our responsibility and in our best interest to build partnerships to support the communities where we live, work and do business."

Grants by The Allstate Foundation included:

$75,000 to Columbus-based Ohio Domestic Violence Network for its Expanding Economic Opportunities for Safety, Survival and Security program,
$35,000 to Cleveland-based Facing History and Ourselves for its Student Leadership Project,
$30,000 to Cleveland-based Underwings Project, Inc. for its programs to support economic empowerment for domestic violence survivors,
$30,000 to SAVE - Students Against Violence Everywhere for its teen safe driving initiatives in Ohio, Indiana and Michigan,
$25,000 to Junior Achievement of Akron for its Summit County schools programming,
$15,000 to the Akron Urban League for its summer enrichment program, and
$10,000 to the YWCA of Greater Cincinnati and $10,000 to the YWCA of Cleveland for their domestic violence survivor support programs.

Allstate Agency Hands in the Community Award
The Allstate Agency Hands in the Community grant program recognizes exclusive agents and personal financial representatives for outstanding commitment to community service with a $1,000 donation to each of the charitable organizations for which they volunteer. To qualify for a grant, recipients must show evidence of volunteer work that has had a positive impact on the local community. Allstate awarded $50,000 in AAHIC grants to support community organizations across Ohio in 2011.

Among the recipients were:

Agency Owner/Personal Financial Representative	Agency Office City	Charitable Organization
Lee Paulson	Akron	Master Gardeners of Summit County
Larry Penny	Alliance	Pace, Inc.
Bill Snook	Ashland	Transformation Network
Craig Walters	Baltimore	Fairfield County Foundation
Don Paltani	Beachwood	Northeast Ohio Hydrocephalus Support Group, Inc.
Toni Cali	Beavercreek	Greene County Cosmos
Julius Livas	Boardman	The Young Men's Christian Association of Youngstown, Ohio
Bob Kenderes	Brunswick	Near West Theatre
Gary Thornton	Bryan	Junior Achievement Of Northwestern Ohio
Jim Warneke	Calcutta	Boy Scouts of America, Crew 82
Benjamin Cahoon	Cambridge	Soccer Association for Youth
Darryl Dillenback	Canton	Boy Scouts of America
Steve Fenstemaker	Centerville	Optimist International Foundation
Sandra McAllister	Chillicothe	Weecare Outreach, Inc.
Tanya Howard Grace	Cleveland Heights	Kym Sellers Foundation
Candi Davis	Columbiana	Columbiana Youth Baseball, Inc.
Trevis Davie	Columbus	Boosters Club of Canal Winchester, Inc.
Jason Durica	Cortland	Trumbull Mobile Meals
Lee Hamill	Cuyahoga Falls	Battered Women's Shelter
Rachel Dean-Haas	Dublin	Junior League of Columbus, Inc.
Thomas Dietz	Dublin	Columbus Ice Hockey Club, Inc.
Greg Lowe	Dublin	Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International
Sue McCandless	Fairfield	Ross Local School Band
Michael Kazee	Galloway	Galloway Baseball Club
Tami Smith	Grafton	Grafton-Midview Public Library
Brian Macy	Huber Heights	New Carlisle Rotary Club Foundation
Thomas D'Amico	Kettering	American Cancer Society
Sam McLean	Lima	Northside Neighborhood Association
Brian Planz	Lima	Amil Tellers of Dramatics, Inc.
Jim Kahoe	Middleburg Heights	Revere Booster Club, Inc.
Kerry Fairbanks	Niles	Children's Rehabilitation Center
Iris Kessler	North Olmsted	North Olmsted Eagle Boosters, Inc.
Karl Kessler	North Olmsted	North Olmsted Eagle Boosters, Inc.
Tonia Maxwell	Norwalk	Project Leadership of Huron County
Gabriel Cicconetti	Painesville	(two grants) Downtown Painesville Organization and Painesville Community Improvement Corporation
Jim Twiggs	Springfield	Springfield Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association
David Maute	Springfield	Springfield Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association
Rick Ferrell	St. Clairsville	St. Clairsville Area Soccer Association, Inc.
Patty Rose	Troy	Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.
Daniel Gossman	Wellington	(two grants) The Salvation Army and Main Street Wellington
William Hensley	West Chester	Animal Friends Humane Society
Owen Gorman	West Chester	Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County, Inc.
Mary Bauer	Westerville	Columbus State Community College Development Foundation, Inc.
Mark Portale	Westerville	Ohio Special Olympics, Inc.
Richard Schofield	Willoughby	Greyhound Adoption of Ohio, Inc.
Peggy Gum	Youngstown	Childrens and Family Service

The Foundation also awarded $16,500 to Ohio community organizations through its other grant programs.

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstate.com/foundation.

Contact:
Jeff Ormond
248-994-9393
Jeff.Ormond@allstate.com
Twitter: @AllstateGr8Lake

The Allstate Foundation Awards $253,500 to Michigan Community Organizations

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:29:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

The Allstate Foundation, a charitable organization focused on fostering strong communities, awarded grants totaling $253,500 to Michigan organizations in 2011. The Allstate Foundation supported several community organizations that address its focus areas of safe and vital communities, economic empowerment, and tolerance, inclusion, and diversity.

"Allstate is proud to support so many worthwhile causes in Michigan through The Allstate Foundation," said Allstate Field Senior Vice President Thomas F. Clarkson. "We believe it's our responsibility and in our best interest to build partnerships to support the communities where we live, work and do business."

Grants by The Allstate Foundation included $75,000 to Detroit-based Junior Achievement (JA) of Southeast Michigan to support Finance Park, which teaches elementary and high school students financial literacy concepts and career exploration opportunities.

The Allstate Foundation also awarded $50,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Michigan in Farmington Hills for its Youth for Unity program, $50,000 to Okemos-based Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence for its Building Capacity Towards Economic Self-Sufficiency project, and $20,000 to Turning Point of Mt. Clemens for its domestic violence education program.

Allstate Agency Hands in the Community Award
The Allstate Agency Hands in the Community (AAHIC) grant program recognizes exclusive agents and personal financial representatives for outstanding commitment to community service with a $1,000 donation to each of the charitable organizations for which they volunteer. To qualify for a grant, recipients must show evidence of volunteer work that has had a positive impact on the local community. Allstate awarded $52,000 in AAHIC grants to support community organizations across Michigan in 2011.

Among the recipients were:

Agency Owner Personal Financial Representative	Agency Office City	Charitable Organization
John Parr	Allen Park	Society of Notre Dame De Bonsecours, Inc.
Cliff Hart	Ann Arbor	Get Fit Shiawassee
Steve Pero	Bay City	4-H Horsemanship for Handicappers
Mike Nicley	Clinton Township	Romeo Junior Bulldogs Youth Football League, Inc.
Brian Hodson	Coldwater	Tibbits Opera Foundation and Arts Council, Inc.
LeAndra Champnella	Dearborn	Grosse Ile Youth Recreation Association, Inc.
Paula Schembri	Garden City	Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan/Vic & Lucille Wertz Club
Russ Hammond	Grand Ledge	Grand Ledge Area Youth Football, Inc.
Heather Holland-Matthews	Grand Ledge	American Cancer Society, Inc.
Craig Terpstra	Grand Rapids	Greater Grand Rapids Chamber Foundation
James Voogd	Grand Rapids	Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International
Valerie Jager	Grand Rapids	Kalis Cure for Paralysis Foundation, Inc.
Mark Noffsinger	Grandville	Lutheran Child & Family Service of Michigan
John Weber	Grayling	Crawford County Community Christian Help Center
Tom Salingue	Hastings	Wayland Youth Baseball & Softball League
Chris Webb	Jackson	Cascades Humane Society, Inc.
Cheryl Bowker	Livonia	Livonia Fire Department
Michael Kokoszka	Livonia	Livonia Police Department
Brendan McCarthy	Marshall	National Exchange Club Foundation, Inc.
Patricia Schulte	Marysville	Society of St. Vincent De Paul Council of The United States
Peter Schulte	Marysville	Society of St. Vincent De Paul Council of The United States
Larry Deford	Midland	Junior Achievement of Central Michigan
Patrick Carey	Midland	Fraternal Northwest Little League
Michael Love	Mt. Pleasant	Junior Achievement of Central Michigan
Mark Noffsinger	Muskegon	Trout Unlimited
Bruce Faber	Novi	Northcentral Maltese Rescue, Inc.
Pam Currie	Okemos	Child & Family Services of Michigan
Linda King	Paw Paw	Carnegie Community Center, Inc.
Tom Osterbrock	Plainwell	Rotary District 6360 World Community Service Foundation
Scott Cunningham	Riverview	Riverview Police Department
Thea Collins	Rochester Hills	Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan/Vic & Lucille Wertz Club
Frank Kimmel	Rochester Hills	Rothmund-Thomson Syndrome Foundation
Mark Brooks	Roseville	Grosse Pointe Rotary Foundation
J.C. Brooks	Roseville	Rotary Club of Grosse Pointe-Sunrise Foundation, Inc.
Todd Terry	Shelby Township	Little-Ma-Power Enrichment Academy
Robert Mazigian	South Haven	Lutheran Child & Family Service of Michigan
Chris Sarkella	South Lyon	Kiwanis Foundation of South Lyon
James Jackson	Southfield	Optimist Youth Foundation of Detroit, Inc.
Jennifer Troy	Southfield	SKIP, Inc. Community Resource Services
John Ivkov	Sterling Heights	FEESA - Feed Employ Educate South Africa
John Weber	Traverse City	Father Fred Foundation
Patricia Bryan	Traverse City	Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation
Mark Smith	Troy	National Association of Black Accountants
Bryan Gras	Walker	Holland Police Department Defensive Teen Driving
Kelly Weaver	Walled Lake	Hospitality House
Al Lindsey	Warren	Lions Visually Impaired Youth Camp, Inc.
Bob Hart	Washington Township	Romeo Lions Club Charities, Inc.
Barney Knorp	Westland	Livonia Storm Girls Fastpitch
Cliff Hart	Williamston	Williamston Police Department

The Foundation also awarded $6,500 to Michigan community organizations through its other grant programs.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstate.com/foundation.

Contact:
Jeff Ormond
248-994-9393
Jeff.Ormond@allstate.com
Twitter: @AllstateGr8Lake

The Allstate Foundation Awards $197,000 to Indiana Community Organizations

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:24:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

The Allstate Foundation, a charitable organization focused on fostering strong communities, awarded grants totaling $197,000 to Indiana organizations in 2011. The Allstate Foundation supported several community organizations that address its focus areas of safe and vital communities, economic empowerment, and tolerance, inclusion, and diversity.

"Allstate is proud to support so many worthwhile causes in Indiana through The Allstate Foundation," said Allstate Field Senior Vice President Thomas F. Clarkson. "We believe it's our responsibility and in our best interest to build partnerships to support the communities where we live, work and do business."

The Allstate Foundation gave a $65,000 grant to Indianapolis-based Junior Achievement (JA) of Central Indiana and $15,000 to Fort Wayne-based JA of Northern Indiana to support Finance Park, which teaches elementary and high school students financial literacy concepts and career exploration opportunities.

Supporting its signature program on financial empowerment for survivors of domestic violence, The Allstate Foundation also awarded $65,000 to Evansville-based Holly’s House for its Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy and Emergency Assistance Fund.

Allstate Agency Hands in the Community Award
The Allstate Agency Hands in the Community (AAHIC) grant program recognizes exclusive agents and personal financial representatives for outstanding commitment to community service with a $1,000 donation to each of the charitable organizations for which they volunteer. To qualify for a grant, recipients must show evidence of volunteer work that has had a positive impact on the local community. Allstate awarded $42,000 in AAHIC grants to support community organizations across Indiana in 2011.

Among the recipients were:

Agency Owner/Personal Financial Representative	Agency Office City	Charitable Organization
Steven Folgate	Anderson	Animal Protection League, Inc.
Ann Alexander	Anderson	Habitat for Humanity International, Inc.
Charles Norton	Bloomington	Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monroe County, Inc.
Kenneth Heatley	Bloomington	Pourhouse Café, Inc.
Ted Paris	Brazil	YMCA of Clay County, Inc.
Patrick Terry	Carmel	Little League Baseball, Inc.
Ranjit Puthran	Carmel	The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International
Vince Moore	Columbus	Family Service of Bartholomew County, Inc.
Margaret Bolinger	Decatur	Golden Meadows Home
Laura Sanders	Evansville	Kiwanis Club of Historic Newburgh Kiwanis Foundation, Inc.
Kevin Helming	Evansville	Kiwanis Club of Historic Newburgh Kiwanis Foundation, Inc.
Sam Tanoos	Evansville	Newburgh Girls Softball, Inc.
Bo Liao	Fishers	China Journal Indiana
Peggy Drenth	Fishers	Hamilton Centers Youth Service Bureau, Inc.
Keith Mathews	Fishers	Lawrence Fallen Officers Memorial Fund
Nader Rezkalla	Fishers	Lawrence Township Boys Basketball League, Inc.
Darren Vogt	Fort Wayne	Fort Wayne Zoological Society, Inc.
Matthew Welker	Greencastle	Putnam County Youth Development Commission, Inc.
Johnny Burum	Hammond	Heroes Camp, Inc.
Sandra Toporski	Hobart	Phi Beta Psi Sorority
Kathy Jordan	Huntington	Huntington County Humane Society, Inc.
Adrian Smiley	Indianapolis	101 Black Men of Indianapolis, Inc.
Tyrone Henry	Indianapolis	Damien Center, Inc.
John Persinger	Indianapolis	Hollis Adams Foundation, Inc.
Willis McKinney	Indianapolis	Indiana Special Olympics, Inc.
Sara Pyle	Kokomo	United Way of Howard County, Inc.
Jan Nielsen	Lafayette	Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana
David Rees	Marion	Marion Community School of the Arts, Inc.
Rusty Jack	Marion	United Way of Grant County Indiana, Inc.
William Wiley	Merrillville	Tolleston Alumni Association
Renita Fleming	Mishawaka	South Bend Parks & Recreation
Justin Sorensen	Muncie	Boy Scouts of America
Greg McCammon	Muncie	Central Indiana Sarcoidosis Support Group, Inc.
Patti Hoffman	South Bend	Real Services, Inc.
Bryan Sponsler	Terre Haute	Art Spaces - Wabash Valley Outdoor Sculpture Collection
Mike Jones	Terre Haute	Big Brothers Big Sisters of Vigo County
Thomas Pitts	Terre Haute	Community Theatre of Terre Haute, Inc.
Pete Barry	Vincennes	Vincennes Rotary Foundation, Inc.
Kenneth Wilson	Wabash	Wabash County Young Mens Christian Association, Inc.
Tom Gregg	Zionsville	American Cancer Society, Inc.

The Foundation also awarded $10,000 to Indiana community organizations through its other grant programs.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstate.com/foundation.

Contact:
Jeff Ormond
248-994-9393
Jeff.Ormond@allstate.com
Twitter: @AllstateGr8Lake

Don't Forget Fireplace, Portable Space Heater Safety

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:20:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

With temperatures falling and costs to heat your home rising, many are turning to alternative heating sources, such as wood burning stoves, electric radiators, kerosene or oil heaters.

Allstate and the Home Safety Council offer the following tips for staying safe while using alternative heating sources this winter:

Portable Space Heaters

Purchase electric space heaters that bear the mark of an independent testing laboratory, such as UL, ETL, or CSA
Place space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn - including furniture, people, pets and window treatments
Turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep
Supervise children and pets at all times when a portable space heater is in use
Use kerosene heaters only where permitted by law. Use the recommended grade kerosene and never use an alternative fuel. Kerosene heaters must be fueled outside
Never use space heaters to dry clothing or blankets

Fireplaces and Wood Stoves

Burn only seasoned hardwood - not trash, cardboard boxes, or Christmas trees because these items burn unevenly, may contain toxins, and increase the risk of uncontrolled fires
Have a professional chimney sweep inspect chimneys annually for cracks, blockages and leaks and have them cleaned and repaired as needed
Keep all persons, pets and flammable objects, including kindling, bedding, clothing, at least three feet away from fireplaces and wood stoves
Open flues before fireplaces are used
Use sturdy screens or doors to keep embers inside fireplaces
Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and inside or near sleeping areas
Keep young children away from working wood stoves and heaters to avoid contact burn injuries

For safety tips on this and other topics, please contact your local Allstate agent.

Contact:
John Heid
john.heid@allstate.com
(678) 589-6102

Allstate Expands Comprehensive Employee Wellness Program with Grand Opening of Onsite Wellness Center

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 09:00:00 -0600

Employees and their families have easy access to many medical services
This release contains: 4 Videos, 4 Photos, 1 Related Document

Allstate Insurance Co. (NYSE: ALL) today announced the opening of a state-of-the-art onsite medical facility for employees and their families. The Allstate Wellness Center is the latest addition to the company's range of services that support the wellbeing of its employees and their families.

The new facility, which features a physician, a nurse practitioner, a physical therapist and a health coach, will give Allstate employees – as well as their family members and Allstate retirees – a setting where they can receive medical care and health information that encourage long-term wellbeing.

"Our goal is to build a culture that embraces and encourages our employees' pursuit of wellbeing in all aspects of their life," said Catherine Winn, vice president, Human Resources. "The Wellness Center is an innovative facility that provides onsite medical care while offering employees an opportunity to save on rising health care costs."

Allstate's Wellness Center offers an innovative, holistic approach to medical care, offering physical examinations, vaccinations and immunizations, wellness counseling, physical therapy, blood pressure checks, laboratory services and screenings. The facility will also include a pharmacy that will open later this spring.

All employees enrolled in a company-sponsored self insured medical plan are eligible to receive preventive care at the Wellness Center at no cost. Depending on their medical insurance coverage, non-preventive care can be received for as little as a $10 co-payment.

The Center joins a wide selection of offerings designed to encourage health and wellbeing for company employees. Allstate's Energy For Life workshop, its Destination: You walking program, wellness coaching and subsidized, more nutritious meals in the company cafeterias all contribute to employees' overall wellbeing. A second wellness center is scheduled to open at Allstate's campus in Irving, Texas this summer.

Allstate, City Year and the Edgewood Foundation Give Back to Columbia in Honor of Martin Luther King Jr.'s Spirit of Community Service

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:47:00 -0600

Allstate and non-profits across the country inspire year-round volunteering
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate community partners City Year and the Edgewood Foundation will host Give Back Day projects in Columbia, S.C, this morning of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day for Allstate employees and agency owners.

"Just like the charge led by community hero Martin Luther King, Jr., Allstate employees and agency owners want local residents to experience the power of volunteering," said Spokesperson John Heid. . "Allstate's Give Back Day will hopefully inspire people to start the year giving back and continue to make a positive difference in local communities the remaining 364 days of the year."

The interactive Allstate.com/GiveBackDay Web site highlights Allstate's commitment to the African-American community and is powered by VolunteerMatch, an online search engine offering volunteerism and civic engagement opportunities. VolunteerMatch contains thousands of volunteer opportunities in communities all across the country, and matches volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits.

For more than 80 years, Allstate has helped people protect what's important to them and make their lives - and their communities - more secure. One way Allstate gives back to local communities is through the volunteerism of its people. Collectively, Allstate agency owners and employees donated more than 180,000 hours of time in 2010.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
John Heid
john.heid@allstate.com
Phone Number: (678) 589-6102

Allstate, 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Atlanta Community ToolBank and CHRIS Kids Give Back to Atlanta in Honor of Martin Luther King Jr.'s Spirit of Community Service

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:43:00 -0600

Allstate and non-profits across the country inspire year-round volunteering
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate Insurance Company will mobilize "Give Back Day" events in communities across the country, including Atlanta today (Jan. 16, 2012, Martin Luther King Jr. Day). Give Back Day, now in its fourth year, honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s commitment to year-round volunteerism.

Allstate community partners 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Atlanta Community ToolBank and CHRIS Kids will host Give Back Day projects in Atlanta this morning of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day for Allstate employees and agency owners.

Contact:
John Heid
john.heid@allstate.com
Phone Number: (678) 589-6102

Allstate to Discuss Fourth Quarter 2011 Earnings With Investors

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:57:00 -0600

This release contains: 1 Related Document

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) will conduct a conference call and webcast at 9 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) on Thursday, Feb. 2 to discuss fourth quarter 2011 earnings. The company will issue a news release announcing quarterly results at or after 4:05 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Feb. 1. Shortly thereafter, the company plans to post supplementary financial and statistical information online. These materials will be available on Allstate’s website at www.allstateinvestors.com.

The investor webcast also can be accessed at www.allstateinvestors.com. For those unable to participate in the live event, a webcast replay and downloadable MP3 file will be posted on the company’s website shortly after the event ends.

The company’s 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K will be filed by its due date of Feb. 29.

Contact:
Maryellen Thielen
(847) 402-5600

Allstate and local residents honor Martin Luther King Jr. by giving back

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:48:00 -0600

"Give Back Day" inspires community year-round volunteering
This release contains: 1 Related Document

In markets across the country including Columbia, Allstate will mobilize Give Back Day events to further Dr. Martin Luther King's commitment to giving back to the community through service. Allstate, City Yea and the Edgewood Foundation are teaming up to host three Give Back Day projects in Atlanta on the morning of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The fourth-year initiative reinforces Allstate's commitment to giving back to communities and inspiring all people to volunteer their time to worthy causes on Jan. 16 and throughout the entire year.

Local residents and representatives from City Year and the Edgewood Foundation, Allstate Insurance Company employees and Allstate agency owners will all take part in projects at the Edgewood Foundation, 2500 Elmwood Ave., Columbia, S.C., 29204.

Allstate encourages citizens interested in local volunteer opportunities to visit Allstate.com/GiveBackDay for ways to participate in Give Back Day on January 16, 2012 and throughout the year. The interactive website highlights Allstate's commitment to the African-American community and is powered by VolunteerMatch, an online search engine offering volunteerism and civic engagement opportunities. VolunteerMatch contains thousands of volunteer opportunities in communities all across the country, and matches volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
John Heid
john.heid@allstate.com
(678) 589-6102

Allstate and local residents honor Martin Luther King Jr. by giving back

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:44:00 -0600

"Give Back Day" inspires community year-round volunteering
This release contains: 1 Related Document

In markets across the country including Atlanta, Allstate will mobilize Give Back Day events to further Dr. Martin Luther King's commitment to giving back to the community through service. Allstate, the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, the Atlanta Community ToolBank and CHRIS Kids are teaming up to host three Give Back Day projects in Atlanta on the morning of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The fourth-year initiative reinforces Allstate's commitment to giving back to communities and inspiring all people to volunteer their time to worthy causes on Jan. 16 and throughout the entire year.

Local residents and representatives from the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, the Atlanta Community ToolBank and CHRIS Kidswith Allstate Insurance Company employees and agency owners will take part in projects at these locations on Monday, Jan. 16:.

Humphries Elementary School, 3029 Humphries Drive, Atlanta, Ga., 30354
Atlanta Community ToolBank, 55 Ormond St., Atlanta, Ga., 30315
CHRIS Kids, 2045 Graham Circle, Atlanta, Ga., 30316

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
John Heid
john.heid@allstate.com
(678) 589-6102

Make a Financial Fitness Resolution in 2012

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:26:00 -0600

Allstate Financial Offers Tips on Reducing Stress and Getting Financially Fit
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Have you been feeling stressed lately? While many resolutions like fitness and healthy eating are probably underway, have you had a chance to be financially fit? This could be contributing to some of your stress.

While there are many contributors to stress - from work to commuting - money and finances are arguably one of the biggest sources of stress in our lives. It is a major area of conflict for couples, causes headaches and nausea according to Rockford, Ill. Family Credit Counseling Service which surveyed consumers with credit card debt in 2008. Financial stress also increases your likelihood of developing gum disease according to research published in the Journal of Periodontology.

According to Neil Barney, a Utah-based Allstate personal financial representative, here are five steps to help reduce the financial stress in your life:

1. Get Help
There are financial professionals who can provide guidance to repair your financial health by helping to assess your financial situation and assist you with investments and savings products to meet your future goals. You should also conduct research on your own by visiting Web sites, attending seminars and reading books that provide information on finances and investing.

2. Exercise
Work those financial muscles. It takes time and effort to reach your financial goals. If you're on a diet, you've likely set a goal of how many pounds you want to lose. If you're a collector, you've likely set a goal of how many items you want to own. If you're serious about saving money, it's no different-setting specific goals helps you focus on where you want to be. Without goals, you'll have no idea how much money to put aside from your take-home pay. That can make it too easy to spend it all, or to save far less than you could have, if you had simply determined a goal amount.

3. A Dollar a Day Keeps the Stress Away
Start saving now. In order to reap the financial benefits of compounding, you need to start saving as soon as possible. Even with all your bills and expenses, it's usually possible to find a little bit of money to invest. Track your expenses for one month and scrutinize your spending habits. Can you save $5 per day by brown bagging your lunch rather than eating out? Will cutting back on premium cable channels free up $15? Earmark financial windfalls like bonuses, tax refunds, or birthday gifts for investing. If you find it too painful to put in the entire amount, commit a certain percentage to your savings.

4. Reward Yourself For a Job Well Done
You work hard, and when you retire, it will be time to reap the benefits. No matter what your retirement dream is, it takes some preparation to make it happen. The 2004 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey found that most Americans have not saved enough for retirement. Only eight percent of survey respondents had completed 10 basic retirement preparedness steps and only 38 percent had completed fewer than five. If your current savings efforts are falling short of your future goals, consider consulting with a financial professional to review your current insurance and financial needs and see if you have what you need to protect what you have today and prepare you for tomorrow.

5. Wipe Away the Credit Card Blues
Paying off high interest loans from credit cards could help lower your financial stress, especially if you're having trouble making the minimum payments due on your credit card balances, or making late payments. Working to eliminate credit card debt can help to ease your mind, and less consumer debt may help to keep your overall credit in good standing. Residents of many states are now eligible to receive, once per year, a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com for more information.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:
Kari Mather
602-631-6248

Make a Financial Fitness Resolution in 2012

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:34:00 -0600

Allstate Financial Offers Tips on Reducing Stress and Getting Financially Fit
This release contains: 1 Related Document

According to Ketan Patel, a New Mexico-based Allstate personal financial representative, here are five steps to help reduce the financial stress in your life:

2. Exercise
Work those financial muscles. It takes time and effort to reach your financial goals. If you're on a diet, you've likely set a goal of how many pounds you want to lose. If you're a collector, you've likely set a goal of how many items you want to own. If you're serious about saving money, it's no different—setting specific goals helps you focus on where you want to be. Without goals, you'll have no idea how much money to put aside from your take-home pay. That can make it too easy to spend it all, or to save far less than you could have, if you had simply determined a goal amount.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
www.twitter.com/allstatesw

Don't Let Romantic Valentine's Day Plans Backfire

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 -0600

Allstate Offers Protection Tips for Couples and Their Gifts
This release contains: 1 Related Document

For romantic couples with the perfect gift and romantic evening planned, be sure to properly guarantee Valentine's Day festivities won't backfire. This Valentine's Day, Allstate encourages couples to safeguard themselves and their gifts with the following safety and protection tips.

"Let's say you're planning a romantic evening complete with a roaring fire, soft music, flowers, chocolates, and candles. You've thought of everything, but you're probably not thinking about the potential hazards that could arise," says Allstate Exclusive Agency Owner Joe Keller. "Fireplaces, wood stoves and candles can quickly lead to fires in the home."

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more fires occur in residences in the winter than in the other two-thirds of the year. To turn up the heat without getting burned, consider some simple steps to avoid fire-related loss.

Candles

Be aware of the placement of candles, keeping them away from walls, window treatments, papers and other flammable materials. Place candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
Check the label on each candle for proper usage. For example, it is often recommended that candles not be burned for more than a few hours at a time, and that candles be extinguished when the wick is within a half inch from the base.
Before lighting, trim the wick to approximately one-eighth of an inch.
Store matches and lighters in a secure location, out of the reach of children.
Do not leave lighted candles unattended; they should be within your sight at all times.

Fireplaces/wood stoves

Be sure that ashes are completely cool before removing them from a fireplace. Use a metal pail or can to transport ashes. Where available, use the clean-out chute located in the fireplace to dispose of ashes.
Have chimneys professionally cleaned once each year.
Before lighting a fire, check that the flue is open to avoid smoke damage.
Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby.

This Valentine's Day consumers are estimated to spend over $17 billion on gifts, according to the Insurance Information Institute. When purchasing a diamond engagement ring or other expensive jewelry, it's important to think about protecting this investment.

If jewelry is stolen, Allstate Homeowners, Condominium, Manufactured Homeowners, or Renters policy can provide actual cash value protection by adding the Scheduled Personal Property (SPP) endorsement.
SPP coverage provides additional protection against loss or damage to special treasures. It is protection not typically provided with standard property coverage.
SPP benefits typically include: no deductibles to meet, coverage for lost or damaged items, coverage for an array of valuable personal property, such as jewelry, furs, silverware and antiques.

"A significant benefit to having SPP coverage is that it offers all-risk protection, which means customers are insured for all different types of perils, including loss of the stone, a chip in the diamond, misplacing the item, and so on," says Keller.

SPP coverage is not limited to jewelry. Valuables such as cameras, musical instruments, fine art, sports equipment, stamp or coin collections, tools, and furs are just some of the items that people insure through the SPP coverage option.

For more information, contact an Allstate agent for a comprehensive policy review or visit www.allstate.com to determine which optional protection would meet your needs.

Keller recommends reviewing current coverage with a licensed advisor, by appointment, at The Keller Agency located at 6321 Riverside Plaza Lane NW in Albuquerque. "Insurance coverage is important and we want to ensure that you have all the right coverage before a loss occurs," states Keller.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248

Don't Let Romantic Valentine's Day Plans Backfire

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 -0600

Allstate Offers Protection Tips for Couples and Their Gifts
This release contains: 1 Related Document

"Let's say you're planning a romantic evening complete with a roaring fire, soft music, flowers, chocolates, and candles. You've thought of everything, but you're probably not thinking about the potential hazards that could arise," says Allstate Exclusive Agency Owner Lisa Eshleman. "Fireplaces, wood stoves and candles can quickly lead to fires in the home."

Candles

Be aware of the placement of candles, keeping them away from walls, window treatments, papers and other flammable materials. Place candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
Check the label on each candle for proper usage. For example, it is often recommended that candles not be burned for more than a few hours at a time, and that candles be extinguished when the wick is within a half inch from the base.
Before lighting, trim the wick to approximately one-eighth of an inch.
Store matches and lighters in a secure location, out of the reach of children.
Do not leave lighted candles unattended; they should be within your sight at all times.

Fireplaces/wood stoves

Be sure that ashes are completely cool before removing them from a fireplace. Use a metal pail or can to transport ashes. Where available, use the clean-out chute located in the fireplace to dispose of ashes.
Have chimneys professionally cleaned once each year.
Before lighting a fire, check that the flue is open to avoid smoke damage.
Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby.

If jewelry is stolen, Allstate Homeowners, Condominium, Manufactured Homeowners, or Renters policy can provide actual cash value protection by adding the Scheduled Personal Property (SPP) endorsement.
SPP coverage provides additional protection against loss or damage to special treasures. It is protection not typically provided with standard property coverage.
SPP benefits typically include: no deductibles to meet, coverage for lost or damaged items, coverage for an array of valuable personal property, such as jewelry, furs, silverware and antiques.

For more information, contact an Allstate agent for a comprehensive policy review or visit www.allstate.com to determine which optional protection would meet your needs.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248

Make a Financial Fitness Resolution in 2012

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 -0600

Allstate Financial Offers Tips on Reducing Stress and Getting Financially Fit

According to Keith Kellett, an Arizona-based Allstate personal financial representative, here are five steps to help reduce the financial stress in your life:

2. Exercise
Work those financial muscles. It takes time and effort to reach your financial goals. If you're on a diet, you've likely set a goal of how many pounds you want to lose. If you're a collector, you've likely set a goal of how many items you want to own. If you're serious about saving money, it's no different—setting specific goals helps you focus on where you want to be. Without goals, you'll have no idea how much money to put aside from your take-home pay. That can make it too easy to spend it all, or to save far less than you could have, if you had simply determined a goal amount.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248
www.twitter.com/allstatesw

Are you ready for some football?

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 -0600

Allstate Offers Safety and Insurance Protection Tips Prior to Super Bowl
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Fact: According to Hallmark Cards, Inc., the Super Bowl represents the No. 1 at-home party event of the year - even bigger than New Year's Eve.

Super Bowl XLVI is days away, which means many Americans are hosting or attending a Super Bowl party. No one wants to spoil the game day fun, so Allstate Insurance Company is recommending tips to prepare and protect party hosts and guests getting ready for the Super Bowl.

Worried about a raucous guest falling and injuring himself in your home? Check your homeowners policy to make sure you have personal liability protection that provides adequate coverage for your home and assets. Liability protection provides coverage when others are injured or have sustained damage to their property for which you are responsible. If an accident in your home does happen, make sure the injured persons are comfortable and call for medical assistance if needed.
What if that guest breaks your pricey antique vase in his fall - will your insurance replace it? Protect your home valuables - like fine art, collectibles or sporting equipment - with a scheduled personal property endorsement to your homeowners policy. Scheduled personal property provides protection for loss or damage to personal property items not always covered under traditional homeowners policies.
Protect yourself and your guests. Provide non-alcoholic beverages to guests and don't let drunk or drowsy guests drive home.

After the party, its important to take precautions to ensure a safe ride home. Unfortunately, drunk and drowsy drivers on the road with you could make your drive home a dangerous one. To protect your family traveling home after the big game:

Don't drink and drive. If you know you will be drinking alcohol, use a designated driver or public transportation. Many cities even offer safe ride home programs.
If you spot an impaired driver on the highway, maintain a safe following distance and don't attempt to pass.
Report a suspected drunk driver immediately to area law enforcement. Give police as much information (i.e., license plate number, make, model and color of vehicle, direction vehicle is traveling, physical description of driver) as possible.
Allow enough travel time, especially when traveling long distances. Drowsiness can reduce reaction time almost as much as drinking.
Stop driving if you become sleepy while on the road.

# # #

Contact:

Kari Mather
602-631-6248