NEW YORK -- Home insurance rates are rising around the country, as evidenced by rate increases by several major firms in Florida. But there are ways to economize. The Insurance Information Institute offers several simple steps to lower your home insurance rates:

		Marshall Loeb is a senior correspondent for MarketWatch.com.

Increase your deductible. If you are willing to pay more toward a loss if you ever have a claim, usually you can lower your premiums.

Consolidate your insurers. Purchase your homeowners insurance from the same company where you buy your auto policy. You might be able to snag a discount.

Make your home safer. Security and safety systems such as deadbolts on doors, burglar alarms, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and automatic sprinklers make your home more attractive to insurers. Find out whether your company offers a discount for these measures.

Set up an interior inspection. You may be able to get 10 percent to 15 percent off if you allow an insurance company inspector to review the inside of your home when you sign a new policy.

Be loyal. Find out if your insurance company offers loyalty discounts. If you've been with the same insurer for a certain number of years, you may be able to get a reduced premium.

Don't smoke. Let your insurance company know if you don't smoke. Some insurers offer discounts to nonsmokers.

Shop around. It's much easier to compare prices these days. Many state insurance departments offer price comparisons for major insurance companies.