NU Online News Service, April 13, 3:30 p.m.EDT

The Nevada Surplus Lines Association said in cooperation withthe Nevada Division of Insurance it has launched a televisionadvertising campaign advising consumers to do thorough researchbefore buying insurance.

It features participants in risky extreme sports promoting themessage that when it comes to insurance coverage they won't takerisks.

In a statement, the NSLA said the 2009 Public Education Campaigneducates about consumers who perhaps are risk-takers by day and intheir personal lives but take no chances when it comes to theirbusiness, auto, homeowners, health, life and personal insurancepolicies and realize the value of conducting thorough researchbefore purchasing a policy.

Launched statewide today, the effort includes 30-secondtelevision spots, Web site banners and upgrades to www.nvinsurancealert.com tosupport consumer and insurance agent questions and concerns, theNSLA explained.

The advertisements focus on six everyday "thrill seekers"participating in extreme outdoor activities: Rowena Singer,downhill skier; Richard Blocki, bull rider; Dana Gregg, sky diver;Mark Jary, rock climber; Jim Stephens, kayaker; and Sally Sidders,acrobatic pilot.

The association said each is shown "living life to the fullestand enjoying their extreme sport of choice," and the second half ofthe ad spot "reveals the clear message that in spite of theirenthusiasm for extreme recreational sports they will not take anychances or unnecessary risks when it comes to their insurance plansto protect their loved ones, businesses and valued assets."

The campaign aims to drive consumers to www.nvinsurancealert.com tofurther educate them and create a level of awareness to thepossible risks of unauthorized insurance companies or illegitimateinsurance policies and products.

It reminds consumers to "Check before you write a check."

Nevada consumers can call 888-467-4195 to verify whether theirchosen insurance plan or policy is placed with an authorizedinsurance company, while being provided with the appropriatebenefits and tools needed.

The taking "No Chance" campaign is for business, auto,homeowners, health, life and personal insurance policies.

NSLA said the www.nvinsurancealert.com Website is continuously updated to include the latest news andinformation and to provide additional tools and resources to assistconsumers in making informed and smart choices when researching orpurchasing insurance policies and products.

Information about the campaign can be obtained from Kay Lockhartat 775-882-1366, or via fax at 775-883-0524.

Material about protecting personal assets is available fromMaria Dias, public information officer of the Division ofInsurance, at 775-687-4270 ext. 278.

Nevada Insurance Alert and www.nvinsurancealert.com arefunded by Nevada Surplus Lines Association, presented by the NevadaIndependent Insurance Agents in cooperation with the NevadaDivision of Insurance.