Piled Up Risks, Piled Up Prevention: Your Winter Safety Guide

Winter is here, and with it come the usual routines—scraping frost, layering up, and keeping something warm in your hands. But beyond the daily hassles, many homeowners start asking the same questions: How do I keep my home safe in freezing temps? What should I do to prevent winter damage? What does my insurance actually cover this time of year?

At Pine Insurance Agency, we’re here to make those answers simple. Below are practical tips to help you protect your home, avoid common winter risks, and stay prepared for whatever the season brings.

Safe Snow Removal Practices

Living in a cold-weather region practically means adding “snow removal” to your winter resume. Whether it’s clearing the driveway before work or keeping sidewalks walkable for visitors, staying on top of snow is part of the season. It also plays a big role in keeping you and anyone who sets foot on your property safe. Here are a few tips to make the process easier and safer:

1. Review Your City’s Snow Removal Ordinance: Every city has its own rules. Make sure you understand them to avoid fines.
2. Know Who’s Responsible: If you are renting, make sure to clarify with your landlord who is responsible for snow removal. Homeowners, decide if you will handle the job or if you should hire a professional.
3. Warm Up Before You Begin: Do a few simple stretches to prevent straining your muscles.
4. Lift Smaller Loads of Snow: Lifting too much snow can increase the risk of injuries. Take lighter scoops and push the snow when possible.
5. Take Breaks as Needed: Snow removal is not a race. Give yourself plenty of time to get the job done and take breaks when needed.
6. Check Your Insurance Coverage: Review your policy to understand your liability if someone slips and falls on your property.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Cold weather doesn’t just freeze your face; it can freeze your pipes, too. When that happens, you could be dealing with anything from a temporary water outage to a major (and messy) burst pipe. To help you stay ahead of the freeze, here are some practical tips:

1. Drain Outdoor Hoses: Disconnect and drain your hoses. Shut off exterior spigots.
2. Add Insulation: If pipes are in an exposed area like the basement and crawl spaces, consider adding extra insulation.
3. Keep The Heat On: Don’t let the indoor temperature drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you are away.
4. Let a Trickle of Water Run: On cold nights, keep a trickle of water running from the faucet.
5. Open Cabinet Doors: Opening doors will allow more heat to flow around pipes.
6. Save Your Local Plumber’s Contact: If a pipe does burst, this will save time and possibly reduce damage.
7. Review Your Insurance Coverage: Not all policies cover damage from frozen pipes. Check with your local agent to confirm what is included in your plan.

As the snow piles up outside, remember: your risks don’t have to pile up with it. With a few smart habits and the right insurance coverage, winter becomes a lot more manageable.

If you’d like help reviewing your policy or making sure you’re protected this season, the team at Pine Insurance Agency is just a call away.