Home hacks to weather winter storms
AAA Insurance
Winter storms can devastate your home. Ice, snow, rain and wind are all potential dangers, but taking preventive steps to winterize your home can make it safer and may even save you money over time.
“It’s never too early to start preparing for winter weather,” said Chrissy Hall, Vice President of Sales & Insurance with AAA South Jersey. “Implement a few key changes over the weeks ahead. You’ll be happy you did when the storms hit.”
Prepare your home
- Check your heating system: Before firing up your furnace, boiler or chimney, have your heating system(s) serviced. It’s a good idea to have these checked at least once a year.
- Inspect and insulate pipes: Carefully inspect pipes for cracks and leaks, and have them repaired as soon as possible. Insulate exposed pipes and seal cracks to prevent them from bursting.
- Know the location of the main water shutoff valve: If your pipes freeze, the quicker you shut off the water, the better chance you have of preventing them from bursting and causing major damage.
- Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: According to the Insurance Information Institute, residential fires and carbon monoxide poisoning increase during the winter. Regularly check your detectors to make sure they are in working condition.
