WINTER TIME: Potential causes and tips on loss prevention.

Christopher McCaughey
Manager Loss Control/Appraisals
The Guarantee Company of North America

The winter season is upon us and with that comes freezing rain, ice and lots of snow.

Slip and fall injuries, frozen pipes, ice damming, and roof collapse due to heavy snowfalls are a few of the losses that occur during the winter season.

Here are some tips on protecting your family and property during the winter months that may help you avoid a potentially unnecessary headache:

• Have your furnace or boiler system checked and inspected prior to the start of the heating season.
• Keep your furnace vent clear of ice and snow.
• If applicable, have your chimney(s) cleaned prior to using wood burning fireplaces or stoves.
• Have a roofing contractor check the condition of your roof annually and fix problems as they occur. This includes the flashing and seals around the chimney and skylights. As a result of this regular maintenance, your roof will last longer.
• Make sure the insulation and ventilation in the attic are adequate. Any sign of ice buildup on your roof during the winter months indicates a problem that could result in water damage.
• Remove leaves from eavestroughs and downspouts. This will allow water to properly drain away from and prevent water from entering your home. If the downspouts discharge to the ground surface, they should extend to reach at least three feet out from the side of the house.
• Have any tree branches overhanging your home or power lines trimmed or cut. These branches may fall off during a severe snow or ice storm.
• Keep exterior stairwell drains clear. This will prevent water from pooling and seeping into your basement area.
• Purchase and have ready a shovel, sand, salt, and/or sidewalk de-icer to keep your steps, sidewalks and driveways clear of ice and snow. This will reduce the possibility of a slip and fall injury from occurring.
• Hire a professional to remove any excessive snow from your roof after a heavy snowfall or accumulation that has built up over time.
• Secure and store away patio furniture and barbecues. Items left outdoors can be damaged in a storm.
• Do not store propane tanks indoors or in attached garage areas.
• If you are going away for an extended period of time you should take reasonable care to maintain the temperature in your home in order to prevent frozen and burst pipes. Also, consideration should be given to shutting off the water and draining the pipes and appliances.
• Again, if you are going away consider having a family member or neighbour check on your property regularly.

Even if we all do our best to prevent damage in our home, there is still a chance that it may occur. Here are some general guidelines on what to do if this happens:

• Make sure you and your family are safe.
• Call your broker/insurance company to report the damage.

Taking all of this into account, it is important to remember that prevention is not only an insurance concern, but will help maintain the value of your home.

This “Loss Prevention Tip Sheet” contains general information only. Policy conditions apply in all instances.