The American Insurance Association Offers 10 Tips to Help Manage Record-Breaking Cold Snap
Washington, D.C. (PRWEB) January 03, 2018 -- As much of the country endures a record-breaking cold snap, the American Insurance Association (AIA) offers these tips to help protect yourself, your home and your property in the coming days.
1. Set the temperature in your home or office above 55 degrees.
2. Check sinks, faucets and pipes (interior or exterior) for leaks and rust. Make sure exterior water faucets are properly shut off to avoid freezing in the pipes.
3. Make sure you have enough fuel for your home and generator, if you have one. If you have a fireplace, keep a supply of wood on hand.
4. Keep back-up generators and portable grills outdoors and away from windows, doors and ventilation.
5. Stock up on non-perishable food items, medicines and warm clothing so you don’t have to go outside.
6. If you suspect that one of your pipes has frozen, immediately shut off the water source.
7. During periods of intensely cold temperatures, open the cabinets that contain bathroom and kitchen pipes so that warm air flows around them.
8. Re-salt outdoor walking paths after every thaw and freeze.
9. Be careful when conducting risky outdoor activities or obtain qualified professional assistance. Clearing out gutters, cleaning off roofs and removing ice can all be dangerous and may be better conducted by professionals.
10. If you choose to shovel snow, make sure you are fit enough to do so and proceed prudently – clear reasonable amounts with each pass and take proper breaks. Again, qualified professionals may be a better choice.
Please remember that winter weather can increase the risk of house fires, frozen pipes and significant roof damage.
Maggie Seidel, American Insurance Association, http://aiadc.org, 2028287196, [email protected]
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