It’s Getting Cold This Weekend – Time to Winterize!

Before the cold and miserable weather arrives in Kentucky this weekend, it’s a good idea to winterize your home and your vehicles. These tips will help you avoid claims on your insurance policy and keep your claim-free discounts intact!

Here are some tips for your home:

1. Check the gutters. It seems like gutters are on every single “home maintenance tips” list, and there is a good reason for this fact. Gutters are one of the main drivers of the rainwater away from your home. Water can do lots of damage, so be sure there aren’t any leaves or other debris in your gutters that will impede water flow. Make sure they are affixed to the home correctly and don’t have any gaps in the metal. Be sure they are attached to the downspouts correctly too.
2. Have your furnace/heating system inspected to be sure it is in proper working order. Change the filter(s).
3. If you have a chimney, have it cleaned and inspected.
4. Check for drafts around your windows and doors and replace weatherstripping if needed.
5. Be sure you have have snow-removal supplies, just in case.
6. Trim your trees. Remove branches that could hit your car or home if they broke off during a winter storm. If it’s a big job, hire a licensed professional.
7. Disconnect your garden hose, including the extra connector piece.

Here are some tips for your vehicles:

1. Be sure your tires are ready for winter. Replace ones that have worn treads. Maintain the correct tire pressure for the lower temperatures.
2. Pack a winter safety kit for your trunk.
3. Replace the wiper blades and fluid.
4. CHECK THE BATTERY!
5. Be sure all fluids are topped off.
6. Check belts and hoses.

Here are a few links for more information from the experts.

https://www.bridgestonetire.com/tread-and-trend/drivers-ed/how-to-winterize-a-car

https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/winter-preparedness-checklist

https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/11-ways-to-winterize-your-home-on-a-budget-10169