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TrueNorth Winter Prep Guide

posted by TrueNorth Risk Management on Thursday, November 14, 2024

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With some parts of the country experiencing unseasonably warm weather, it’s not too late to take preventative measures and winterize your home and your vehicle. 

Along with storing grills and outdoor furniture, consider these additional steps:

  • Protect Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and bursting. During extreme cold, consider letting faucets drip slightly to keep water moving. Don’t forget to drain garden hoses and clean window wells. 
  • Inspect and Clean Gutters: Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams, which can cause water damage to your roof and walls. Consider investing in a roof rake or gutter guards to further protect your home.
  • Service your Heating System: Have a professional inspect and service your furnace or boiler to ensure it’s working efficiently. Remember to replace filters monthly. If your home has a chimney and fireplace, inspect them annually. This is also a good time to check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.
  • Check insulation: A home energy assessment (also known as an energy audit) can help keep your home comfortable and safe year-round. Depending on the age of your house, this may also be a good time to seal windows and doors.
Key maintenance tips to prepare your vehicle for winter weather:
  • Tires and brakes: Reliable braking performance is crucial for winter driving. and tire pressure can drop in colder temperatures. Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth and are not too old. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider switching to winter tires.
  • Battery health: Test your battery to ensure it’s holding a charge. Keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion.
  • Fluids check: Ensure antifreeze is at the correct mixture and the oil is changed. Replace wiper blades and make sure windshield washer fluid is suitable for the season.
  • Emergency Kit  Essentials: Pack a blanket, flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, non-perishable food, water and a snow shovel. Cat litter can also provide necessary traction in heavy snowfall.
  • Tools: include jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge and a multi-tool.

Protect your home today! These tips could help you avoid filing a claim during the winter months.

More winter home and auto maintenance tips:

       Auto Tips      Home Tips

Connect with our team of specialists to determine whether you may need additional coverage.

Sources:

Winter Weather Driving Tips: Prepare Your Vehicle | NHTSA

14 Ways to Winterize Your Home | Lowes

About Author



In addition to helpful weekly guidance on home and auto, TrueNorth provides a number of insurance options to protect your family from risk. For information on a home or auto quote, visit www.iTrueNorth.com or call us at (319) 739-1277. We'd like nothing more than to help safeguard the things that matter most to you. 



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