Winter Storms Ahead: Are You Ready?

We admit it: as insurance agents, our picture of winter isn’t exactly cozy. Winter storms mean traffic snarls, hillsides turning to sheets of ice, and cars sliding around like hockey pucks. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to burst, frost swells and many other types of damage. In addition, heating your home with fireplaces and decorating with holiday lighting can increase the risk of fire.

Winter Safety Precautions

To help reduce weather-related hassles this winter, keep the following safety tips in mind:

·       Winter-proof your car with good snow tires or chains, new wiper blades, antifreeze, and emergency road supplies.

·       Keep your attic cool to help prevent ice dams. Insulate the attic floor and make sure it is well-ventilated.

·       Never overload circuits with holiday decorations.

What to Do When a Winter Storm Hits

·       If you do not have to drive, stay put. If you must drive, make sure you’ve winterized your car and have a full tank of gas.

·       When the air is cold, keep bath and kitchen cabinet doors open so warm air can circulate around pipes. If pipes do freeze, let them thaw normally, as they’ll be less likely to burst.

 

·       If the power goes out, make sure to never leave candles or fires burning unattended. If you use a portable generator, follow the instructions in the user manual and do not use it indoors.

Know What Your Insurance Covers

At Hunkins & Eaton Insurance Agency in Littleton and Lisbon, NH, we want to help you rest easy, and you will be more relaxed knowing that you have protection in the event that a winter storm damages your property. Remember that your insurance policy will cover repair or rebuilding costs, but your deductible will apply. Check your policy to confirm what specifically is covered as well as the deductible you have chosen.

For additional information about winter storm protection and to review your coverage, give us a call at 800-427-3975. For additional safety tips and useful resources, please read our other blog posts, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.