keep safe this winter

In winter we need to take care to protect ourselves, our families and our properties. Cold conditions, storms, increased risks of fire at home and poor driving conditions are some of the hazards we face at this time of year.

Here we outline some simple precautions that can be taken to lessen the risks:

Cold Spells:
• Keep the home well heated
• Check piping and tanks are adequately lagged.
• If away from property for any lengthy
periods, leave heating on low, install a timer, leave attic door open, get a friend or
neighbour to check property regularly.

Stormy/Poor Weather:
• Get a builder to check roof for damaged slates.
• Keep Gutters/Drainpipes clear.
• Check house exterior for evidence of faults/cracks.

Fire Precautions:
• Install several smoke alarms around the house.
• Check regularly that they work.
• Clean chimney at least once a year.
• Use a fire safety guard.
• Don’t dry clothes or hang items too close to fires.
• Don’t cover convector or storage heaters.
• Have ageing electrical systems checked.
• Avoid using plug adaptors.
• Switch off applicances at night and when away.
• Xmas Season: Be careful with tree lights, etc. Exercise care with candles.

Home Safety:
• Fit mortice deadlocks to external doors.
• Fit locking devices to accessible windows.
• Install a Burglar alarm.
• Don’t leave keys outside the house.
• Cancel deliveries when away.

Road Safety:
• Never drink and drive.
• Keep within speed limit.
• Wear seat belts at all times
• Check tyres regularly.
• Give your car a winter health check.
• Don’t travel in icy conditions unless essential.
• Pedestrians: -Be Safe & Be Seen. Wear reflective Bands/Vests.

Implementation of some of the above can reduce your Home Insurance premiums i.e. installing smoke and burglar alarms. If in doubt, check with you Insurers of Insurance Broker. In the event of a home fire never hesitate to contact the Fire Brigade. All good Home Insurance Policies cover Fire Brigade call out charges. Remember simple precautions can limit the risks.

Liam Hunt is the proprietor of Hunt Insurance Brokerage offering all classes of General Insurance and also Life assurance and also Life Assurance Investment Products. Member of PIBA.

Contact: Tel 09498 60130
Email: info@huntinsurances.ie
Liam Hunt T/A Hunt Insurances is regulated by the Insurance Regulator.

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