Most people would say their car is one of the most valuable assets they own – if not the most valuable. Despite that, however, some people make it downright easy for thieves to drive off in their pride and joy. At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we don’t want you walking out your door to an empty…

It’s an exciting time when your child is heading off to ‘college’. Whether they’re headed to school here in Montana or all the way across the country, there are a ton of things to get done – and a ton of things to pack! But one of the most important things…

College graduation is an exciting time in Montana and elsewhere for students and their parents alike. And, while it’s easy to be immersed in graduation parties and focused on first-job jitters, it’s a time of major transitions and big decisions, and it’s essential to…

You’ve probably heard this horror story before – someone loses a home due to a flood and learns after the fact that standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we want you to be educated about all of the risks you may face in Montana…

There’s nothing quite like driving a speedy, shiny classic car that turns heads and starts conversations. In fact, the beauty and elegance of old collectibles – like the 1964 Aston Martin DB5, the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray and the 1969 Dodge Charger – can be downright captivating….

Now that summer’s over and the weather is cooling down, it’s time to think about pulling your boat out and putting it away until next year. But before you do, it’s also time to make sure your boat is ready for the winter – and still has the…

You’ve probably been at the rental-car counter, listening to the representative ask if you want to purchase the company’s insurance. And the thoughts start racing through your head. “Do I really need this? Doesn’t my regular auto policy cover me? What about my credit card?…

Why should I have a home inventory? Your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports or hobby equipment, and electronic goods are all regarded as personal property. Like many people in Montana, you may own much more than you realize. Comparing the value of your belongings to the…

Ah, Valentine’s Day is near, and love is in the air. Well, love and a few other things, such as chocolates, romantic dinners, candy hearts that say “Be Mine” – and, of course, jewelry. It’s exciting to receive jewelry from a loved one – or to give it as a gift….

When choosing auto insurance, you want complete coverage for the best price. There’s a lot to think about when choosing auto insurance. In some states, to license your car you must carry liability coverage for damages incurred by others if you cause an accident, or no-fault coverage to pay…

We love it here in North East Montana, but summertime is the time for getting away! And whether your escape is by air, land or sea, Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. can help ensure you are covered. Just because you’re on vacation, though, doesn’t mean you can…

Whether you own a Jet Ski, a small ski boat, fishing boat, or a 26-foot cruiser, knowing that you’re covered by the right insurance should give you the peace of mind to relax and enjoy every minute. What We Insure We represent insurance companies that…

Buying, selling or insuring a boat in Plentywood? First you’ll need to know how much your boat and/or motor is worth. Here are a few popular pricing guides as references. NADA BUC Also, you can check out the prices on boats similar to yours using these sites: IBoats Boats.com Boat Trader…

Insuring a condominium in Montana is different than insuring a home. And the biggest difference is knowing where your responsibilities begin and end. That’s why it really pays to work with a knowledgeable insurance agent like Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc.. Read on, or call us at 406-765-1190….

Your home may be worth as much or more than your retirement account. As a result, it makes sense to track your home insurance as carefully as you do your 401k. Getting Started with Thompson/Collins Agency If you haven’t checked in recently, you might consider contacting Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. at…

What’s the secret to selecting the right amount of insurance coverage? Simple – the more information you provide, the easier Thompson/Collins Agency can create a homeowner’s policy that’s right for you. Homeowners Insurance From Thompson/Collins Agency Is Here to Protect You…

In 1984, National Night Out – “America’s Night Out Against Crime” – began as a way to promote crime prevention through neighborhood camaraderie. Since then, according to the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), the annual event has taken root in tens of thousands…

Sitting around a backyard fire pit here in Montana is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a nice summer evening. Without the proper precautions, however, it can also be quite dangerous. So before you get out the graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows for National S’mores Day…

One of the most disheartening experiences is to find flooding or extreme water damage to your treasured home. At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we know you want to protect what’s important. That’s why we’re offering these tips to help you prevent many of the most common causes of water…

It may sound surprising, but there are approximately 3,000 hailstorms in the United States each year. The size of hail can widely vary – from golf-ball size to softball size. And when it starts building up size, hail can cause not just severe property and vehicle damage, but also bodily harm…

Tornadoes have caused severe and irreparable damage to tens of thousands of Americans and their property in recent years. On top of the physical and emotional fallout, many have also lost their lives as a direct result of a tornado. Although you can never control the weather or the outcome of a…

Everyone wants to keep their home safe from burglars or intruders, but not everyone wants to have an alarm system installed. There are plenty of people who prefer the do-it-yourself route, whether it’s home improvement or home security. And nowadays, there are more options than ever when it…

While fall and winter have their own pleasures – longer nights mean increased danger on the roads. You might think you drive just as well at night, but consider this: Even though nighttime driving accounts for just 23% of vehicle miles traveled, more than 50% of fatalities for vehicle…

The end of summer means many things, such as cooler weather, shorter days and … the start of football here in Montana! But most important, it means kids are headed back to school. And that means we all should be extra careful on…

There are many reasons to love the sport of boating – it can be relaxing, exciting, entertaining and even rejuvenating. But hauling a boat on a trailer and launching it at a busy Montana launch ramp can have its challenges. In fact, it can be downright stressful and dangerous and is…

Motorcyclists know that riding gives them a freedom that driving a car just can’t match. But the best riders also know that motorcycles require more focus to operate and don’t provide the same protections cars do in the event of a crash. The best riders also take great care in all…

As springtime approaches, you may be noticing something in addition to the warmer weather and awakening plants: More motorcycles on the roads in Plentywood. Riding looks like a lot of fun, doesn’t it? Just imagine heading down Montana highways with the sun shining and the road…

Winter is here, and with it comes many traditions and activities: Holiday celebrations with loved ones in Plentywood, skiing and snowboarding outings in the mountains, fireplace-lit living rooms, homemade batches of soup… and shoveling snow. Should you live somewhere in Montana…

The holidays can be a great time to get out of Plentywood to visit family you rarely get to see, hit the slopes or flee to the beach. Regardless of how you spend your time away, you need to ensure your house stays safe while you’re…

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That’s why it’s important to know how to prevent it, detect it, and protect yourself and your family from its effects. In the home, carbon monoxide is…

It’s a night full of treats for both kids and adults in Plentywood. But a number of factors – including lots of people walking in the dark, the threat of wet and stormy weather, strangers coming to your door – mean that Halloween in Montana can have some tricks up its…

For a lot of people in Plentywood, summer means getting out on the water. And you don’t even need a boat to do it – personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis and WaveRunners, provide a fun and accessible way to enjoy the…

The call of the open road is at its strongest during the summer – and so is the call of the convertible. If you’re one of those drivers who has long dreamed of dropping the top and heading across Montana and beyond, we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. have some buying tips for you….

For most of us, the Fourth of July is a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, having fun and creating memories – whether at home or away in Montana. But for some families, the holiday is a nightmare. Homes each year in…

For most of us, July 4th is a day to enjoy the pyrotechnics that traditionally mark the holiday. But for our pets, fireworks are another story – they can be traumatized by the noisy rockets and firecrackers so many of us enjoy. At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we hope your holiday is happy and safe for…

High school is full of defining moments for Plentywood teens and two of the highlights for most are prom and graduation. However, this time of year often sees other, more tragic defining moments – serious car accidents involving teens who are distracted or even under the influence of…

Almost anywhere it rains, it can flood. Even if you live in an area of that you think isn’t at risk, preparation is just as critical as with other types of emergencies. Before we get into how you can prevent, limit or react to flooding, it’s important to note that flood damage is…

When purchasing a trailer in Montana or elsewhere, stay within recommended capacity guidelines. When determining capacity, remember to include the weight of fuel and accessories in addition to the weight of the craft. Trailers come with closed or open frames. Closed frames help protect the…

You’ll no doubt hear the phrase “Happy Holidays!” about a thousand times over the next month or two. Here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we’d like to change that a little bit: “Happy – and Safe – Holidays!” While the holidays certainly bring cheer here in…

For many of our neighbors in Plentywood, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard – often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly. Each year about 400,000 people are treated for injuries from lawn and garden tools, according to the U.S….

Whether you live in Montana, or elsewhere, hail storms don’t last long, but they pack a real punch. Every year, hail causes nearly $1 billion in damages, mostly to repair roofs and cars. A single series of evening storms in North Texas in May of 2011 caused an estimated $200 million…

To stay safe on Plentywood streets, you need the right skills to control your ride, and the best safety equipment for just-in-case. Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. cares about your safety – so keep these helpful tips in mind when you ride: When You Ride{regional_designations:cond}, whether it’s in…

Being on the water in your boat can be a real joy, but it pays to know what to do if you’re involved in an accident in Montana, or if something happens to your personal watercraft (PWC) when it’s on shore. A capsized PWC may take on water,…

At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. we recognize one of the fastest growing American pastimes is recreational boating. While many boaters cruise in sailboats and powerboats, personal watercraft (PWC) have become a popular way to enjoy the water too. Recreational boaters use them as tenders on larger boats, to…

In most places in the United States, Sunday, March 13, 2011, is Daylight Saving, when clocks are moved forward one hour. Regardless of whether Daylight Saving Time is recognized where you live, we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. want to suggest it’s still a great time to improve your…

Avoid any delays and unexpected problems when you take your recreational vehicle or motorhome out for what should be a relaxing trip from Plentywood. Follow some of our suggestions below, and consider investing in some maintenance and safety classes to help ensure happy travels across…

Your Identity Belongs to You. Some Suggestions From Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. to Help Protect It. One smart and effective way to protect yourself against identity theft in places like North East Montana is to prevent it. If your identity is stolen, you’ll be…

Believe it or not, every state in the U.S. has some degree of risk from earthquakes, including Montana. If you live in an area susceptible to earthquakes, make sure you speak with Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. in order to determine whether you are covered, or if you should purchase separate earthquake…

If the unthinkable happens, we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. understand that your most valuable assets are more than just items on a balance sheet. That information is critical during a time of catastrophe. Sites to Check Out The following sites are additional resources to assist with preparing for…

If there’s anything more satisfying than melting into the couch following a multi-course Thanksgiving dinner complete with all the fixings, it has to be shopping for the best deals of the season the day after in Plentywood. Hitting the shops on Black Friday has become a ritual that is…

Buying a new car in Plentywood is an exciting time – but it can also be stressful. After all, you’re trying to get the best deal on price, while also deciding on the make, model and features you need. Here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we can’t really help you become a master…

Simple steps can lead to savings in your pocket. Spending less money is much easier than perfecting your tight turns at high speeds on a gravel road. Take a look at some simple ways to lower your motorcycle insurance costs for Montana, riders like you. Ride More. Worry…

Insurance might be a necessity, but spending lots of money on it isn’t. We here at Thompson/Collins Agency know that you’d rather be mapping out your next destination instead of worrying about your bank balance, so read our recommendations below and start saving. If you live in…

How much you pay for insurance depends on many factors. Following the suggestions below may help you lower the cost of your classic car or collector vehicle insurance at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. in Montana. Before you buy If you’re thinking of buying a classic car or antique automobile, check…

Who doesn’t want to save money on homeowners insurance? For homeowners and renters in Plentywood – and elsewhere – you have options when it comes to lowering your home insurance costs. North East Montana – How You Can Lower Your…

Drivers ask the team at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. this more than just about anything else – how do you save money on auto insurance policies? There are a number of factors that go into determining the cost of your car insurance premiums, and Thompson/Collins Agency has some helpful suggestions to help…

Whether you’re headed to the nearest Montana state park or traversing multiple state lines, a little planning will help you make the most of your summer motorcycle getaway. Not sure where to start? Our tips will help you figure out where to go, what to pack (spoiler alert: not too…

Ah, summer. It’s warm outside and comfortable inside, with air conditioners and fans blowing a cool breeze throughout the house. What a perfect time of year! Until the power goes out, that is. Now it feels just as warm inside as it is outside – possibly worse. Everyone’s…

The kind of tree that adorns a person’s home during the holidays can provoke debate as much as Coke vs. Pepsi or Chevy vs. Ford: When it comes to Christmas trees, do you choose live or artificial? Do you cut your own at a local tree farm, or do you prefer the convenience of a tree bought at a…

Fall has arrived, but there’s still time to get ready for winter weather, including storms. Extreme cold is always a possibility here in Plentywood, so we at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. have compiled some tips to help you stay safe and limit damage. Preparing your home Perform basic winter…

Americans celebrate Memorial Day in the spring and Veterans Day in the fall. While it can be easy to confuse the two holidays, Memorial Day is set aside to honor American’s war dead; Veterans Day is intended to honor the service of all U.S. veterans, both living and dead. In fact,…

Fall is a wonderful time to be outside on your bike, thanks to the crisp, cool weather and changing colors of the landscape. Staying safe on the road in autumn requires some special precautions, however. Because we at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. want you to be around to enjoy the beauty of the open road,…

As the weather warms, you’re likely to start seeing announcements for classic car shows in Montana. These automotive events are a great way to kick start your weekend or vacation. Classic car shows are held all across the country, from small rural towns to large metropolitan areas in…

If you’re an avid boating enthusiast and you’ve tired of the typically exhausting practice of hauling your boat to and from your favorite body of water, waiting in lines at launch ramps and winching it in and out every time you boat, it may be time to…

If you love the water, few things are better than boating season. Summer just wouldn’t be summer without spending those long, hot days, cooling off with a lazy dip in the water, dropping a line in hopes of catching a “big one,” or having an…

You know that taking to the road in your RV is fun – that’s why you do it! But vacationing on the road can have its troubles, like dead batteries, flat tires and missed destinations because of wrong directions. Wouldn’t it be great if there were tools and gadgets to help avoid…

With the days getting longer and the weather starting to get warmer, we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. are starting to think about spring. (Or at least hoping that springtime is coming, anyway.) And whether spring arrives on time, we’ve got you covered with tips to get you ready for the season….

For many, the holiday season is a time for celebration and fun with loved ones. But for others and North East Montana, the season can be one of the loneliest times of the year. At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we know how…

The holiday season is here – time to eat good food and join together with loved ones. For many who have families far away, this is also is the time to pack up and get out of Montana. If you are gearing up to travel and have pets at home, you’re probably considering their holiday…

As the holidays approach, regular habits tend to fall to the wayside. Folks who are consistently rested lose sleep, habitual fitness fanatics sink into recliners and, occasionally, even the most environmentally committed citizens loosen up on their personal rules. With a little know-how, along with…

It goes without saying that keeping yourself and your family healthy through the holiday season in Montana can be a challenge. When you combine chillier temps, housebound days, year-end deadlines and pre-holiday preparation – not to mention kids passing around colds at school like…

The seasons are changing, and the colors of autumn abound. Regrettably, fall’s stunning display is often accompanied by some unwelcome weather hazards in Montana – namely, wind – that can cause considerable damage to the very trees that produce those beautiful fall leaves. At…

Finally, we’re welcoming fall, that eagerly anticipated season when we get to enjoy cooler temps, colorful leaves, the start of school and, of course, football season in Montana! Football season in Plentywood brings with it a whole host of seasonal activities for football fans,…

Summer has ended, but there’s no need to fret here in Plentywood: Fall brings with it crisp, cool days, wonderful colors – and football season! It also brings some maintenance tasks. We here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. recommend you ensure your home is ready for fall and winter weather in…

There’s nothing quite like taking a road trip in an RV. Whether you’re headed to somewhere nearby in Montana, or somewhere farther away this summer, we at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. want you to get the most out of your travels….

With summer drawing near and the weather warming up, Montana neighborhoods come alive with the sights and sounds of the season: Lawnmowers, power tools and backyard barbecues, to name a few. For many people, those things all bring to mind one specific person: Dad. And since Father’s Day…

Whether you’re planning a trip to a local attraction in Montana this summer, or headed all the way across the country, you want your vacation to be relaxing. It’s a getaway from work, not to mention your day-to-day life. So…

Ah, Memorial Day – the long weekend that serves as the unofficial kickoff to summer – is almost here. It’s a time for road trips, barbecues and all kinds of outdoor activities in and around Montana. Of course, we at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. want your long weekend to be a safe one,…

Spring is a time of new beginnings in Montana – and now is a great time to take on some cleaning and organization tasks around your home. If you’re anything like many of us here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., some of these tasks are long overdue! Here are some tips to get you started in…

As the second Sunday of May nears, it’s time to think of ways to celebrate mothers – although, of course, that’s a worthy pursuit at any time of year! At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc., we thought it would be fun to give you a little of the history behind Mother’s Day, as well as a few…

Boat Maintenance Tips for Montana Proper maintenance can extend the life of your boat, reduce the need for costly repairs, and help ensure the safety of your passengers in Montana. Clean and Care for Your Boat{regional_designations:cond}, whether it’s in…

Although they are often skippered by teens and young adults, boats are not toys. Both the craft and its operator must comply with all Federal and state requirements, no matter whether you live in Montana or elsewhere. If you’re heading out on the water, {lakes:cond}whether it’s…

In most places in the United States, Sunday, March 11, 2012, is Daylight Saving, when clocks are moved forward one hour. We here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. want to remind you it’s also a great time to improve your family’s safety. Be safe in your Plentywood home Health and safety agencies…

Of course, because spring is a time for new beginnings, cleaning and organization around the house are very popular this time of year. If you’re ready to tackle that monumental chore, read on for some helpful information. (And if you’re so tidy and organized throughout the year that…

If you live or vacation where the weather gets cold and the snow starts falling, some people are content to cozy up next to the fire with a good book and concentrate on staying warm. For others, though, it’s time to get excited – because it’s time to break out the snowmobiles and…

Millions of Americans will do some traveling this holiday season – the majority of it by car. Of course, winter weather creates a unique set of challenges on the roadways, whether you’re simply driving around in Plentywood or headed to . At Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc.,…

First things first: If you’re a snowbird, and headed away from Plentywood this winter to a sunnier and warmer spot, you can move on to the next article. Just know that we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. wish you a safe journey – and that we’re all a little jealous. But no hard…

Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters. All are common issues here in Montana, and they’re not only annoying – they also cost you money in decreased energy efficiency and higher utility bills. Would you like to save $200 to $400 a year on your energy costs in…

Whether you’ve got a rowboat or a big cabin cruiser, we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. want to make sure you have the tips you need to keep your boat protected when it’s not in use. The first step in winterizing your boat …

Just like hamburgers and hot dogs, a sizzling grill is a symbol of summer in Plentywood. And grilling isn’t just about great food. Backyard barbecues often create treasured memories with friends and family. Keep in mind, however, that when you grill, you’re literally playing with…

It’s happened. There’s water everywhere – in your walls, under your carpets and soaking into your belongings. Whether caused by a burst pipe, a broken water heater or flooding, there are things you can do immediately to salvage belongings and limit damage or loss. Here…

You don’t have to be directly hit by a tornado in Montana to experience damage. Taking some time to prepare could save you thousands of dollars and hours of clean-up. Know What Your Insurance Covers and How Much You Need In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide, but…

With Earth Day fast approaching, we here at Thompson/Collins & Associates, Inc. thought it would be a good time to talk about preventative measures you can take to avoid harming the environment, in addition to carrying an insurance policy that provides coverage for fuel spills and pollution liability. Maintain a…