It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be challenging if you don’t have the right coverage in place for you or your business. However, there are things you can do before disaster strikes. The first is to be sure to let your insurance provider know of any specific needs you may have.
But let’s get real here for a sec. Who really takes the time for that? Well, when the temperature outside nears zero, there’s a lot that can go wrong with your house, car or business. At IBC, we value our clients and truly want to make sure you are taken care of, no matter what. If you were to experience any damage to your home or business from a winter storm, we first want to make sure you have the right coverage.
This is the perfect time to examine your insurance policies, so you know without a doubt you’re covered and review your limits to make sure you have enough coverage. Allow us to help you with a little checklist to keep you, your family and your business safe this winter season.
Prepare Your Business
- Arrange for regular snow removal, adding in sand and salt when needed to keep your customers and employees safe.
- Be mindful of slippery surfaces inside as wet shoes become more frequent.
- Check pipes and sprinkler systems regularly and be sure to turn off those that need to be for the season.
Prepare Your Home
- Check seals on all windows and doors to ensure there isn’t a water leak or cool air flowing in.
- Have your furnace checked to make sure it is working properly and make sure to change your air filter.
- If you have a fireplace, every two years get a chimney sweep to lessen the chances of a chimney fire, especially if you use it on a regular basis.
- Clear out your gutters and turn off sprinkler systems.
- Be sure to have shovels, salt and sand available for sidewalks and driveways.
- Make sure critical areas and systems like your sump pump, generator, carbon monoxide detector and fire alarms have all been checked and are working properly.
Prepare Your Car
- Warm up your car before you start driving. Extreme cold can be very hard on your vehicle.
- Check your tires, bad tires on an icy road…is well…dicey.
- Fill your gas tank when it hits half full, the weight helps and also ensures if you do get into an accident you can leave your car on for heat.
- Keep a first aid kit in your car for any unplanned injuries (this is good all year around).
- Inspect headlights and taillights so in snowy weather your oncomers can see you.
Winter weather can be beautiful, but it is always good to be prepared. If you’re not sure about what your insurance all covers or your limits, visit with your insurance provider today. Need a quote? Contact IBC to discuss your insurance needs and get a complimentary quote by calling 712-277-2424.
