November 6, 2025
jdowdinsShorter Days, Darker Drives: Staying Safe on Central Texas Roads This Fall
Daylight saving time officially ended this past weekend, and if your evening commute suddenly feels a little darker (and longer), you’re not imagining it. With the sun setting earlier, Central Texas drivers are now facing reduced visibility, more glare during rush hour, and an increased risk of evening accidents. Whether you’re heading home from work […]
November 4, 2025
jdowdinsDon’t Snooze and Cruise: Why Sleep Matters for Safe Driving in Central Texas
We all know the dangers of texting and driving—but what about tired driving? Every year, thousands of preventable accidents are caused by drowsy drivers who thought they could power through. That’s why the National Sleep Foundation’s Drowsy Driving Prevention Week (November 2–8, 2025) is here to remind us all of one simple truth: sometimes, the […]
October 23, 2025
jdowdinsCybersecurity Doesn’t Have to Be Scary: Here’s How to Lock Down Your Digital Life
Whether you’re in Austin, New Braunfels, or anywhere across Central Texas, you’re surfing the web, checking email, managing finances, and staying connected. And while that’s all awesome – it also means you’re part of the digital world where cyber-threats are very real. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the perfect time to brush up on protecting your data […]
October 21, 2025
jdowdinsCelebrate National Teen Driver Safety Week with Your Teen Behind the Wheel
Hey there, Central Texas parents! Buckle up—this week (October 19-25) is National Teen Driver Safety Week (NTDSW), a great moment to hit “pause” and chat with your teen driver about staying safe on the roads of the Hill Country. At Dowd Insurance Agency, we’re all about helping families protect what matters most—and yes, that includes […]
October 16, 2025
jdowdinsFireplace & Smoke Detector Safety: Your Fall Home Safety Double-Check
A roaring fire and a cup of cocoa sound perfect on a chilly evening—but safety should come first. Fall is the best time to double-check your fireplace and smoke detectors. Fireplace Safety Use a fireplace screen to catch sparks. Burn only seasoned wood—never trash or cardboard. Keep flammable items at least 3 feet away. Smoke […]
October 9, 2025
jdowdinsTree Trimming: Protecting Your Home from Falling Branches
Fall in Central Texas means unpredictable storms, and overgrown trees can pose serious risks to your home. A little trimming now can prevent a lot of damage later. Why Tree Maintenance Matters Protects your roof and siding from falling branches. Prevents power outages from downed lines. Improves tree health and curb appeal. Reduces liability if […]
October 2, 2025
jdowdinsRoof Inspections: Catch Problems Before They Get Expensive
From hailstorms to scorching summers, your roof has been through a lot this year. Fall is the perfect time to give it some attention with a professional inspection. Why Roof Inspections Are Essential Your roof protects everything inside your home. Skipping inspections can lead to: Leaks that damage walls, ceilings, and insulation. Structural issues from […]
September 25, 2025
jdowdinsHVAC Tune-Ups: Stay Cozy Without Costly Breakdowns
When the first cool front rolls into Central Texas, you want your heater ready to roll—not sputtering out. Fall is the perfect time for an HVAC tune-up, ensuring your system keeps you comfortable all season long. Why HVAC Maintenance Matters Your HVAC system works hard year-round. Without regular maintenance, small issues can turn into big, […]
September 18, 2025
jdowdinsGutter Cleaning: Protecting Your Home from Water Damage This Fall
As summer storms fade into crisp Hill Country evenings, your gutters may be hiding leaves, twigs, and other debris. Out of sight, out of mind—until the first big fall rainstorm sends water spilling over the edge. Clogged gutters can send water where it doesn’t belong, like into your roof, siding, or foundation. That’s not just […]
September 11, 2025
jdowdinsWhy Chimney Cleaning Matters for Central Texas Homeowners
There’s something special about the shift from blazing Texas summers to cooler Hill Country nights. As the long days of summer start winding down, it’s the perfect time to think about your fall home maintenance checklist—and yes, that includes chimney cleaning. Whether you’re in San Marcos, New Braunfels, or tucked away in the backroads of […]