Winter Hazards Part III: Residential

In Part Three of the Winter Hazards series we take a look at winter dangers to residential properties. In Part One we covered Winter Hazards to Your Car, and in Part Two we focused on Winter Hazards to Your Commercial Business. As with your car and your business, there are many hazards to your home that become very real during the cold of winter. Here are some of the top residential hazards and what you should do to minimize them.

Winter Heating Hazards

If you use a chimney, make sure you have a professional clean it and ensure its usability. A chimney fire can be devastating. Check electrical cords and outlets for dangerous wear and tear such as sagging. Check things like electrical blankets and electrical heaters for any signs of wearing out. Read more about preventing home fires here.

Christmas Decorations

One thing you may not think of is Christmas decorations. Greenery such as wreaths or Christmas tress need to be watered. If they are not, they will turn into tinder as they dry out. Regularly water your Christmas tree, and use a spray bottle to water wreathes. When you use Christmas lights, make sure they are in good condition and don’t leave them on too long or overnight without someone being nearby.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can lead to serious damage. Even a small crack can leak incredible amounts water in a short period of time. Make sure your pipes are properly insulated. In addition heat tape can be wrapped around the pipe in places insulation is not feasible. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off the faucets leading to them. When it gets cold, let a trickle of warm water flow through the pipes, as this is often enough to keep them from freezing. If you are going out of town, set the thermostat no lower than 55.

Preventing Ice Dams

Ice dams can cause a serious back up of water which can cause water damage to your home when it begins to melt. To decrease the likelihood of a snow dam you can do a few things. First, remove all leaves, sticks, and random debris from gutters. Second, try to limit the amount of snow that accumulates on your roof. Third, keep gutters free from icicles. Finally, make sure your attic insulation and attic vents are good enough to regulate the temperature of the attic. All of these options will reduce the likelihood of an ice dam.

Power Outage Hazards

Finally, the most dreaded hazard is that of losing power in the middle of a cold, extended blizzard. Make sure you have all the essentials like flashlights, heating fuels, nonperishable foods, and plenty of warm blankets and clothes. Be sure to know what the signs of hypothermia are. Store good drinking water and water than can be used to flush the toilet. Finally, be careful before you venture outside. It’s likely there are downed live wires. Read more about power outages here.

Want to know more about the hazards that can affect your house?  At H&K Insurance Agency in Watertown, MA we know how important your house is to you. Contact us to help protect your home and family from the dangers associated with winter. We offer full homeowners insurance to insure what your hold most dear. Our expert team will be happy to help you with any questions or concerns about your policy this winter.