As winter approaches, Canadians understand that while the beauty of snow-covered landscapes is enchanting, it also brings the challenge of keeping our homes safe and warm. Cold weather can present significant risks to both property and personal safety. From freezing temperatures to heavy snowfall, it's important to prepare your home for the upcoming season. Here's a handy checklist of cold weather safety tips to ensure you're ready for the winter months.

Schedule a professional furnace inspection
Your furnace is the heart of your home's heating system, and regular maintenance is essential for keeping it running smoothly. Before the winter chill sets in, schedule a professional inspection to ensure your furnace is in excellent condition. A well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns during the coldest days of the year.

Check and replace air filters
Air filters are crucial for maintaining your home's indoor air quality and ensuring the efficiency of your heating system. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust and debris, forcing your furnace to work harder and increasing energy costs. Make it a habit to check and replace your air filters regularly to keep your system running efficiently.

Seal your windows and doors
Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs and make your home less comfortable. To keep warmth in and cold air out, inspect your windows and doors for drafts. Seal any gaps using weather stripping or caulking. This simple step can enhance your home's energy efficiency and keep your family cozy all winter long.

Test carbon monoxide detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, colourless gas that can be deadly if it goes unnoticed. Because heating systems can be a source of CO, it's vital to ensure your detectors are working correctly. Test your carbon monoxide detectors before winter arrives, and replace any old batteries to keep your home safe.

Check smoke alarms
Fires can occur at any time of the year, but they are especially common in winter when heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters are in use. To ensure your safety, regularly test your smoke alarms to confirm they're functioning properly, and replace the batteries twice a year.

Maintain a safe fireplace
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, it's critical to follow safe burning practices. Always use dry, seasoned wood and have your chimney cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of creosote, a flammable substance that can cause chimney fires. Ensure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from escaping into your living area. If you have a gas fireplace, it's also important to have it cleaned and inspected regularly.

Use space heaters safely
Space heaters are a convenient way to warm up a cold room, but they can also pose a fire risk if not used properly. Always place space heaters on a flat, stable surface and keep them at least one metre away from flammable materials, such as curtains and furniture. Never leave a space heater unattended and always turn it off when you leave the room or go to bed.

Drain outdoor faucets
Don't forget to disconnect and drain your garden hoses before winter sets in. Once that's done, insulate your outdoor faucets with foam covers to protect them from freezing temperatures. This simple step can help prevent costly damage to your outdoor plumbing.

Insulate pipes
Frozen pipes are a common winter hazard that can lead to costly water damage. To prevent this, insulate any exposed pipes in your home, particularly those located in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Pipe insulation is an affordable and effective way to protect your plumbing from freezing temperatures.

During extreme cold snaps, keep a drip going
To help prevent pipes from freezing, keep a small trickle of water running through them during extreme cold spells. This helps relieve pressure in the pipes and reduces the likelihood of freezing. Be sure to let both hot and cold water run through your taps to prevent any issues.

Check your roof
Heavy snowfall can cause ice dams on your roof, which may lead to water leaking into your home and damaging your ceilings and walls. Before the snow begins to fall, have your roof inspected for any damage, and clean out your gutters of any debris to ensure proper drainage.

Consider installing gutter extensions
To better protect your home from water damage, think about installing gutter extensions. They help direct water further away from your home's foundation, which reduces the risk of water seepage and soil erosion. By extending the reach of your gutters, you can prevent water from pooling near your foundation. This is especially important during winter when snowmelt can create excess runoff.

Install or maintain exterior lights
As winter brings shorter days and longer nights, it's essential to ensure your outdoor areas are well-lit. Install or maintain outdoor lighting to enhance visibility around your property and deter potential intruders. Consider using energy-efficient LED lights and motion sensors that automatically illuminate pathways when needed. Regularly check and replace the bulbs to keep your outdoor spaces bright and welcoming.

When it snows, keep your walkways and driveway clear
Snow and ice can create dangerous conditions around your home, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Prioritize removing snow and ice from these areas throughout the winter. Use de-icing products, such as salt or sand, to improve traction and reduce the risk of accidents.

Review your home insurance policy
Pay close attention to the inclusions and exclusions related to winter weather events. Understanding these details will provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect in the event of a winter-related claim. Depending on your location and the specific risks you face, consider enhancing your protection with additional optional coverage. For instance, additional water protection covering sewer backup and overland water. It's also essential to be aware of your policy's deductibles and coverage limits.

Winter in Canada can be challenging, but by taking proactive steps to prepare your home, you can stay safe and warm throughout the season. If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-494-0090 to review your existing home insurance policy. If you're not insured with OTIP and are shopping for home insurance, call us at 1-888-892-4935 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!