It’s that time of year, winter is upon us and there are several things to consider to be safe and help prevent accidents that lead to insurance claims!
Buildings/Dwellings:
Whether it is your commercial building, rental property, or personal home here are some basic things to keep in mind:
- Make sure your furnace temperatures are set correctly so they will produce the right heat amount for the coming winter weather conditions.
- Check the furnace filters for cleanliness, replace if necessary. Same with dryer vents in your home.
- Keep inside temperatures consistent and running so that your pipes don’t freeze.
- Outdoor water spigots should be left open with the inside valves closed so water isn’t reaching the spigot.
- Check windows for cracks, etc., make sure they are closed properly and are tight, assess if any caulking/sealing is needed, ensure all insulation is up to date.
- Check all gutters, alcoves, awnings, etc. for leaves or other debris that would cause ice damage.
- Check your roof for any damage and schedule repairs if needed.
- Clean walkways, driveways, sidewalks, prep with salt or sand as needed so ice doesn’t form, remove snow or ice as quickly as possible after a storm.
- Have plenty of “welcome” mats in place for visitors to wipe feet and remove as much snow, slush, etc. before entering your home or workplace
Driving:
- Have your personal auto, or commercial vehicles checked for winter, radiators have antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid topped off, wipers ready for winter weather, check tire tread, tire pressure corrected, snow tires if necessary (studded tires).
- Have ice scrapers, extra blankets, and safety gear ready in case of accident or emergency.
- Drive for the conditions, not the speed limit – slush and black ice are not a driver’s friend!
- Be extra careful of the other drivers around you- you never know when a car may slide or spin.
- Pay attention to weather forecasts in your area, and areas you are driving to.
Personal safety:
- Dress warm/in layers. Limit skin exposure in freezing temperatures. Wear the appropriate clothing for your activities.
- If shoveling snow, or any other rigorous outdoor activity- make sure you can physically tolerate the activity, do not do more than you can handle, get a physical if necessary.
- Use appropriate safety gear when shoveling snow – protect yourself from back injuries. Make sure boots/shoes have the appropriate tread so you do not slip or fall.
- If using equipment, make sure the equipment has been serviced properly and is in appropriate working condition. Make sure you understand how to use the equipment correctly and safely.
Whatever activity you perform this winter take extra care of your safety and well-being and of course – please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or tips on how you can be winter ready!
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and safe winter!