The air is crisp, the trees outside are hosting their own art show, and most people can’t wait to dig into their first soup of the season. With all of the sensory stimulation fall brings, one mustn’t let the joy of autumn blind our risk management instincts. There are claim-types that are popular in the fall. Continue reading to learn what they are and how to avoid, or at least mitigate, damage from these loss-inflicting events.
First and foremost, water damage leads to a large number of claims in the fall. These claims are the result of heavy rains and freezing pipes. Proactively having a property’s roof checked for leaks or any weak areas, coupled with ensuring gutters are clean, will reduce the chance of damage due to rain water. Additionally, having a property’s plumbing system reviewed by a license plumber, and following his or her recommendations for keeping pipes from freezing and bursting will also reduce the chance of loss due to water. In short, as the cold weather approaches, having a professional run a diagnosis on your home is the safest way to understand the current condition of your home and can help homeowners prepare accordingly.
Secondly, fire damage creates a host of insurance claims in the fall. With the cold weather brings an increase in the use of candles, stoves for cooking and fireplaces to keep warm. Hiring a certified chimney professional to evaluate the fireplace is a proactive approach homeowners can use to ensure their fireplace is working properly. When cooking, using basic safety tips will decrease the change of fire. For example, don’t leave food unattended or leave the home while cooking. Also, don’t wear loose clothing while cooking and keep all flammable material away from the stove. Purchase a fire extinguisher that remains stationed in the kitchen. Finally, learn candle safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association.
Lastly, rear-end collisions see a sharp increase in the fall. This is largely due to low visibility driving conditions. From frequent rains to foliage falling and landing in the streets, fall offers unique circumstances that require drivers to be more alert to avoid an accident. Always keep a safe traveling distance behind the car in front of you. Pay attention to speed limit and go slower if weather conditions impair vision. Take your vehicle to your mechanic to ensure all lights are working properly as well as to evaluate the car’s breaking system- in the event stopping short is necessary.
The fall can bring both invited and uninvited changes to our homes. However, taking a proactive approach to personal risk management will help keep losses at bay this fall season.