For many families, the holidays mean Christmas lights, bringing a tree indoors, sitting around their wood-burning fireplace, baking homemade cookies and wrapping presents. But hopefully, your holidays don’t include insurance claims! As many of us know, many hazards can arise this time of year and the last thing you want for Christmas is the need to file an insurance claim. At Norcia Insurance Consultants, we are the experts in insurance claims for Green Bay and the surrounding areas and would like to offer some tips on how to make sure your holidays are as safe as possible.
The Lights
Before stringing up the lights, carefully inspect them each year and discard any with frayed cords, cracked lamp holders, or loose connections. When replacing bulbs, unplug the light string and be sure to match voltage and wattage to the original bulb. And, always unplug or turn off holiday lights whenever you leave the house and before going to bed. You can even use an outdoor timer to turn lights on and off but make sure it is certified by CSA International.
And, never connect more than one extension cord together; instead use a single cord that is long enough to reach the outlet without stretching, but not so long that it can easily become tangled. By avoiding electrical hazards like these you can also decrease the chance for insurance claims this year.
The Tree
Make sure your tree is fresh and not dry. Purchase a freshly cut tree, as they are more resistant to ignition. Keep tree watered and away from any open flames like candles or fireplace.
The Alarm
Test your smoke alarms monthly to make sure they work, and be sure to install smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home and especially near sleeping areas.
Tending the Fire
At least once a year, preferably either right before or right after winter, have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned. In your fireplace, make sure the only thing you are burning is wood. Do not burn wrapping paper, lumber scraps, construction scraps, painted wood or other pieces of treated wood. Make sure you only burn wood that is dry and cured. This means the logs need to have been split, stacked and dried for at least 8 to 12 months.
And these are just a few of the ways you can help protect your home from then need for insurance claims this holiday season. For more information about insurance claims in Green Bay, call Norcia Insurance Consultants at 866-512-LOSS (5677), or you can contact us to set up your Free Consultation.
