It is officially winter, bringing cold weather to Minnesota. And it isn’t just any winter. This winter, cooking at home and indoor activities are at an all-time high. With more time spent at home, there are a few safety tips you should keep in mind to help you, your family and your home stay safe this winter. The expert insurance adjusters for MN, Norcia Insurance Consultants, know just about every possible risk out there and here to discuss some of the most important safety tips for this year’s Minnesota winter.
Inspection of your heating system. Before your furnace begins working its hardest, it’s important to ensure it doesn’t have any major issues that could create a dangerous situation. Have your heating system professionally inspected in order to check the safety limits and burners for proper operation. An improperly working heating system can create carbon monoxide hazards as well as other dangers.
Chimney inspection. Another area of the home that has to do with heat and also requires inspection are your wood-burning fireplace chimneys. They should be checked and cleaned of soot buildup to ensure proper air flow and safe operation.
Roof inspection. Winter can be hard on roofing, your home’s #1 defense against the elements. So, now is the time to contact your roofing contractor to come out and inspect your roofing and gutters. Overlooked simple repairs, such a missing or displaced shingles, lose or leaky gutters, damaged flashing or caulking, cracked flanges can lead to more costly damage.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detector inspection. With a winter spent mostly indoors and the constant running of your heating system, it is important to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Also make a habit of changing their batteries. Home fire alarms should last about 10 years, but it is important to check on them consistently to ensure they’re working as they should to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.
Professional dryer vent cleaning. An often neglected task that is very important this time of year. Bulky clothing and blankets can put extra strain on your dryer so clothes dryer vents should be checked for a buildup of lint or blockage. If drying times are getting longer, it means the vent may be getting restricted and not allowing the proper airflow through the appliance.
Did you know that dryer fires occur in the thousands every year? That is why it is so important to do what you can to keep your home’s dryers running safely. And, it helps to hire a professional dryer vent cleaning company to ensure a thorough job. But, if a fire does occur and causes damage to your home or property, be sure to contact the fire department right away. And, when you need help filing your insurance claim, seek assistance from our experienced public adjusters.
These are just some of the most important safety tips to follow this winter. Are you interested in learning more about how our public adjusters in MN can help you in the event of a fire or other damages this winter? Call Norcia Insurance Consultants at 866-512-LOSS (5677) or Schedule a Free Consultation.
