The Weather is Changing, And So Is the Time: Safety Tips for September/October

As winter starts to set in most of us will be spending more time indoors. Now is a good time to review this checklist for safety, comfort, and savings.

Around your home…

• Make sure your fireplace and chimney have been cleaned
• Install motion detection lights on the outside of your home – it will save energy and add a touch of safety
• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are functioning properly and have good batteries
• Make sure all furnace ducts and hot water pipes are sealed and insulated
• Consider using a programmable thermostat for energy conservation
• If you regularly arrive home after dark, use a timer on interior lighting for safety, so lights are on when you arrive home

Your car…

• Check fluid levels
• Get an engine tune up
• Check your tire tread and review winter driving tips
• Be aware of children playing around streets after dark
• Check your battery; starting power is more crucial when it is colder
• Keep a blanket, flashlight, and shovel in the trunk

For Halloween…

• Choose safe costumes for your child. Make sure their vision is not obstructed in any way, that the costume allows for comfortable movement and breathing, and is flame resistant.
• Make sure adults accompany smaller children when trick-or-treating
• Send kids out with flashlights, and if appropriate, a cell phone
• Make sure children cross streets at well light intersections and obey traffic signals
• Be sure to check your kid’s candy before they eat any

Thanks for reviewing these insurance safety tips.