Winter is a few months away. In many parts of the country, this means it’s time to get your home ready for the onslaught of winter storms. By taking the proper safety precautions, you can keep your family, belongings, and home safe and sound — even when inclement winter weather hits.
Here are our top tips for home storm preparedness the upcoming winter season.
Maintain The Trees On Your Property
If you have trees close to your home, garage, or other outbuildings, make sure that you inspect them before the winter storm season starts. Look for any rot, weak limbs, or damage caused by insect or weed-like pests. Trim any limbs that you suspect to be too heavy or weak.
Keep An Eye On Your Roof
If a winter storm causes damage to your home, your roof will be a main point of weakness. Before the winter season begins, have it checked for leaks and other potential damage.
Double Check Your Home’s Inventory
In the event of damage inside your home, make sure you have an up-to-date inventory of all your belongings. Do this by taking pictures or — even better — by walking slowly throughout your home with a video camera.
Keep Your Pipes Protected
Wrap any exposed pipes with temperature-control tape or foam wrapping. You can also have exposed pipes professionally insulated. When temperatures drop to extreme lows, consider turning your faucets on to a trickle. All of this can help prevent pipe freezing and possible burst pipes.
Check Your Windows And Doors
Make sure that your doors and windows have the proper weatherstripping. Where you find leaks that air or water could get through, use reinforcements or patches to fix these areas.
Make Sure You Have An Up-To-Date Copy Of Your Home Insurance Policy
Lastly, ensure that you have a copy of your home insurance policy. Look at it from time to time. It’s wise to know just what your policy covers. That say, should you experience winter home damage, you’ll know how you can make a claim where necessary.
Don’t have a copy of your policy? Call your insurance agent today. They will be happy to provide you with one.
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