Introduction

As a business owner, it’s important to be prepared for potential floods, which are one of the most common hazards in the United States. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), all 50 states are at risk of flooding in some capacity. In addition, a study published in the Nature Climate Change journal predicts that the annual cost of flood damage in the United States will increase by more than 25% by 2050—from $32 billion to $40.6 billion.

The impact of floods on businesses can be devasting, resulting in lost production, sales, income and labor time; transportation costs; decreased tourist activity; and utility disruptions. In fact, 40% of small businesses never reopen following a natural disaster, according to FEMA and the U.S. Department of Labor. Therefore, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your business from potential flood damage.

Review Insurance Coverage

Flooding is a cause of loss that is not typically covered by commercial property policies; businesses usually need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. Before catastrophe strikes, it’s important to take the time to conduct a detailed insurance policy review to ensure the coverage is adequate. In fact, if your commercial property is in a high-risk flood area and you have a mortgage from a federally regulated or insured lender, you are required to purchase a flood insurance policy. Considerations when searching for a policy include:

• Policy limits: Are the building(s) and contents insured to value?
• Business interruptions: Is there coverage for a potential loss of income while the premises are unusable?
• Extra expenses: Is there coverage for any extra expenses incurred while operating the business out of a temporary location?

Prepare Your Property

FEMA reported that more than 20% of flood claims come from properties outside of flood zones. This means it’s important to take precautions to protect your property before a flood occurs, even if your business is located outside a typical flood zone. Here are some tips to prepare your property for a flood:

• Create a flood plan that includes evacuation routes; crucial business details; gas, water and electric supply information; contact sheets for people and their responsibilities; inventory and electrical equipment details; and a list of disaster recovery companies.
• Create a data backup and recovery plan so critical business data is regularly backed up and stored offsite or in the cloud since data loss can severely impact business operations.
• Utilize dry floodproofing techniques, such as keeping flood-protective materials on hand, installing watertight shields over doors and windows, and implementing flood gates or permanent flood doors.
• Raise important equipment, electrical components and documents above expected water levels and store them in waterproof and fireproof containers if necessary.
• Landscape with native plants and vegetation to prevent soil erosion and allow flood waters to drain more efficiently.  
• Use flood-resistant materials for floor and wall coverings, insulation and building exteriors.
• Inspect the exterior building and roof/gutters regularly to ensure they can withstand wind and water from storms and flooding.
• Verify that all installed backflow valves and closures are functional to prevent chemicals, toxins and debris from entering clean water supplies.  
• Have backup systems such as portable pumps and alternate power sources located above the base flood elevation.
• Anchor fuel tanks to prevent damage to your building or other properties downstream, along with potential leaks, fires, explosions or pollution risks.

Conclusion

Being prepared for floods is essential for safeguarding lives and minimizing the impact of these natural disasters. By understanding the causes, recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond, your business can effectively navigate the challenges of floods.

While it may seem overwhelming, you can work with qualified insurance professionals to learn more about and assist with flood preparedness practices and policies. Contact us today for more information.

For farming operations, where Mother Nature is both a partner and a wildcard, managing risks isn’t just smart—it’s essential. One of the cornerstones of agricultural risk management is **crop hail insurance**, a policy that can make the difference between resilience and financial ruin. While its primary focus is on the damage caused by hailstorms, many policies include additional benefits, such as fire coverage, making it a critical tool for safeguarding a farmer’s livelihood.

Why Crop Hail Insurance Matters

Hailstorms can strike without warning, and even a few minutes of pelting ice can destroy acres of crops, wiping out an entire season’s labor and investment. Crop hail insurance ensures farmers don’t bear the full brunt of these unpredictable events. Here’s why it’s indispensable:  

1. Financial Protection: It covers the cost of replanting or the loss of yields, reducing the financial strain caused by hail damage.  

2. Customization: Farmers can select coverage based on the unique risks of their region and the value of their crops.  

3. Timely Payouts: In the wake of a disaster, rapid financial support helps farmers recover and prepare for the next season.  

The Hidden Gem: Fire Coverage

What truly elevates many crop hail policies is including fire coverage. Fires, caused by natural events like lightning or accidental human activity, pose a grave threat to crops. This coverage fills a significant gap, offering protection against:  

– Fires ignited during drought conditions.  

– Damage caused by nearby wildfires spreading to farmlands.  

– Loss of harvested crops stored in the field.  

Fire coverage is particularly important as no other policy offers protection against fire for standing crops. By bundling fire protection with crop hail insurance, farmers get comprehensive coverage against two major risks. Here are some pictures of our client’s farms near Herscher, IL. Last year, a fire started after a dry, windy day, and within 30 minutes, over 300 acres were destroyed.

A Policy Rooted in Resilience

The beauty of crop hail insurance with fire coverage lies in its adaptability and forward-thinking design. Farming is unpredictable, and even the best-prepared operations are vulnerable to forces beyond their control. This type of insurance acts as a financial safety net, allowing farmers to focus on growth, innovation, and sustainability.  

Crop hail insurance with fire coverage is an investment in the future of farming. It doesn’t just protect crops; it protects the heart of a farmer’s hard work and dreams.  Here at Dimond Bros, our team of crop insurance experts knows that each farm is different and is ready to help you understand your options.

Scott Jensen

VP – Farm and AG Services

In today’s competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent has become more challenging than ever. One effective strategy that employers can adopt to stand out is the offering of worksite benefits. These are additional perks provided at the workplace that enhance employees’ overall well-being, financially and physically. Here are key benefits of offering worksite benefits.

1. Enhanced Employee Attraction and Retention: In an era where job seekers are looking for comprehensive compensation packages, worksite benefits such as health screenings, fitness programs, and financial planning services can make a company more attractive. They not only help in attracting qualified candidates but also play a crucial role in retaining existing employees.

2. Improved Employee Well-Being: Worksite benefits contribute significantly to employees’ health and wellness. Offering on-site fitness classes, wellness screenings, or ergonomics consultations can encourage employees to lead healthier lifestyles, thereby reducing absenteeism and increasing productivity.

3. Increased Productivity: Employees who feel valued and supported through worksite benefits tend to be more engaged and productive. Programs that promote work-life balance, such as flexible working hours or remote work options, can lead to higher job satisfaction, which in turn boosts performance.

4. Enhanced Company Culture: Worksite benefits foster a positive work environment. When employers invest in the well-being of their employees, it creates a culture of care and loyalty. This not only enhances morale but also fosters teamwork and collaboration among staff.

5. Cost Efficiency: While offering benefits incurs costs, they can lead to higher employee retention rates and lower turnover. The long-term savings associated with reduced hiring and training expenses far outweigh initial investments in worksite benefits.

In conclusion, worksite benefits are an effective way to show employees that they matter, creating a workplace that attracts talent, increases productivity, and strengthens company culture. Investing in employee well-being is a win-win for businesses and staff alike.

For more information regarding worksite benefits, please contact Mike Holley, Vice President of Life & Health for Dimond Bros Insurance. Mike.holley@dimondbros.com           

The immediate aftermath of a storm can be overwhelming and knowing where to turn is difficult. Dimond Bros. Insurance is here to help. The following guidance outlines some need-to-know information to help you navigate recovery.

Insurance Tips

• Contact your insurance provider immediately to begin the claims process. Ask what to expect and note any filing deadlines or required documentation.
• Itemize damaged possessions and take photos.
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your home but consult your insurance provider before signing contracts with remediation or maintenance contractors for significant work. Check that contractors are licensed, bonded and insured.
• Meet with your loss adjuster to discuss the next steps.

Personal Safety Guidance

• While attempting to stay warm (in the winter) or cool (in the summer), minimize the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning; never heat your home with a cooking oven or use a generator, grill or camp stove inside.
• During power outages, disconnect electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

Weather Alerts

• National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/

Disaster Assistance Recovery Resources

• American Red Cross: 1-800-733-2767 or https://www.redcross.org/find-your-local-chapter.html
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): 1-800-621-3362 or https://www.fema.gov/
• Salvation Army: 1-800-725-2769 or https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/
• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/disaster-distress-helpline

Knowing where to go for help and what to tackle first can be challenging in the aftermath of a storm. Dimond Bros. Insurance can guide you through recovery actions, streamline the insurance process, and help you and your family regain some normalcy. Contact us today to find out more.

For #ThrowbackThursday we are taking a trip down memory lane as we honor our history and past. 

In 2017, Dimond Bros. Insurance celebrated 150 years of service in the insurance industry.  Albert and George Dimond started Dimond Bros. Insurance in Arcola, IL in 1867 and to celebrate that milestone anniversary this video was created: About Us – YouTube

Many of the same faces remain a part of our steadfast team at Dimond Bros. today and the message of who we are rings true even in 2025.  We hope you enjoy this #throwback to share a piece of who we are and our history.

The days of compartmentalizing physical, mental, financial and emotional well-being are over. In 2025, organizations are adopting a holistic approach that considers the entire employee. Expanding all aspects of wellness support is meant to help meet workers’ needs and expectations. While organizations may have already increased their mental health support in the past few years, some are now pivoting and ramping up financial wellness efforts in 2025.

This article highlights four employee wellness trends to monitor in 2025.

1. Addressing Employee Burnout

Many of today’s workers are burnt out; a recent report by a talent advisory firm DHR Global revealed that 82% of employees are experiencing burnout. While health experts used to correlate remote work with positive mental health benefits, in 2025, they’re predicting equal levels of stress and burnout regardless of working location. So, unfortunately, employers shouldn’t expect employee burnout to disappear anytime soon.

Top drivers of employee burnout include long hours (58%), overwhelming workloads (35%), and difficulty balancing work and personal life (34%), according to DHR Global’s report. Burnout can be caused by stress, so employers are also looking at how stress shows up in the workplace and impacts employees. A recent survey by corporate wellness platform Wellhub found that nearly half (47%) of workers identify work stress as the primary cause of their deteriorating mental health—and that was consistent across most generations. Baby boomers are more concerned about inflation, while Generation Z, millennials and Generation X agreed that work stresses them out the most.

In an effort to prevent and alleviate rising levels of stress and burnout, more organizations are prioritizing flexible work arrangements, mental health days, realistic workload expectations and designated downtime to help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance. Employee assistance programs (EAPs), counseling services, stress management workshops and digital platforms for mental health assistance are increasingly becoming key components of workplace wellness initiatives. More employers are also investing in resources to destigmatize mental health (e.g., anti-stigma campaigns, mental health literacy training and EAPs) and foster a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking mental health support.

2. Prioritizing Financial Wellness

Money is a significant stressor for employees, and concerns have been exacerbated by prolonged inflation pressures over the past couple of years, growing debts and skyrocketing medical costs. In fact, more than 6 out of 10 Americans currently live paycheck to paycheck. PYMNTS Intelligence data also revealed that people say the top reason is that they don’t earn enough. While many organizations’ budgets are prepared for salary increases in 2025, they may still be insufficient to keep up with inflation.

Moreover, health care costs will once again increase substantially this year. Add all these financial responsibilities up, and it’s no wonder that workers today are worried about how they will earn a living and pay their bills.

Employers can help reduce employees’ financial stress by exploring financial wellness resources and support options and offering attractive programs for current and prospective employees. In addition to raising wages and offering competitive benefits, employers are exploring financial wellness resources, such as emergency savings funds, retirement savings, financial literacy workshops and one-on-one financial counseling. Financial wellness is a critical component of well-being and can be a competitive offering, especially as workers closely examine their salaries, medical bills and everyday expenses. Today’s workers are not only asking for but now expecting these lifelines from employers.

3. Engaging Employees Through Social Connections

According to Gallup, employee engagement in the United States reached an 11-year low in 2024. Additionally, employee satisfaction returned to a record low, and workers are seeking new job opportunities at the highest level since 2015. Organizational changes (e.g., team restructuring, additional job responsibilities and budget cuts) often cause employees to feel frustrated or disconnected from their jobs. Remote and hybrid work models can also make employees feel physically distant from their colleagues and teams.

While employee quit rates haven’t increased yet, a troubling trend is at play. Workers are staying with their current employers but feel more disconnected than ever. Gallup has coined this new era as “the Great Detachment.” Before workers start switching employers by the masses in 2025, organizations have an opportunity to reengage their workforce and rebuild employee commitment. Some ways to accomplish this can be by confirming organizational priorities and, if needed, resetting work expectations. More than ever, workers want to feel like their work is meaningful and has a purpose, which can further motivate them. Managers and supervisors can help direct reports connect their contributions to a mission or purpose.

4. Personalizing Wellness Programs With AI and Data

Recent technological advancements in employee wellness incorporate digital health platforms, wearable technology, artificial intelligence (AI) solutions and data analytics. More employers will explore leveraging technology to personalize employee wellness benefits.

Technology can enable real-time health monitoring, personalized wellness plans and immediate, 24/7 access to health resources and services. Virtual health platforms can help overcome barriers to health care access. With AI, organizations can also gather data on employee health metrics, work habits, stress levels and preferences. This kind of data can be used to customize wellness recommendations and detect or manage health issues. Nutrition, exercise, mental health and stress management are different for everyone, so AI and data analytics can help tailor support to match each person’s unique needs. As AI becomes more commonplace in 2025, technology has the potential to help personalize and improve employees’ well-being experiences and encourage preventive care.

Summary

This renewed focus on holistic wellness is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how companies approach employee care. By prioritizing mental, emotional and financial well-being in health and wellness initiatives, organizations can create a supportive culture that encourages education, open conversations and utilization of available resources.

Organizations can start by evaluating current wellness initiatives and considering ways to improve them. To ensure offerings and investments resonate with the workforce, it can be helpful to survey employees first to see what they find most valuable and necessary for their overall well-being. Contact our Vice President of Life and Health, Mike Holley at mike.holley@dimondbros.com or your Dimond Bros. agent for more wellness-related workplace guidance.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice.