26/11/2023
Winter is a magical time, but the cold weather, snow and ice brings with it health and safety risks - it’s therefore essential to take extra precautions to ensure the wellbeing of yourself, your family and your property. In this blog post, we'll discuss common winter hazards and how to minimise risk.
Eliminate Trip and Slip Hazards
Ice can be hard to see, so always walk carefully, take shorter steps, wear proper footwear and check for trip hazards while you're outside. Driveways, garden pathways, patios, and decks are typical trouble spots – and it can be tricky to see slippery decks or loose slabs during the colder months. If you do fall, take a moment to get your bearings and assess if you’re injured – if so, make sure to call for help immediately.
Prevent Fallen Branches and Trees
Trees and branches can become a danger to houses, people, pets and vehicles at any time of the year, but especially during the winter months as a result of the weather – with the weight of snow or strong winds causing them to fall, for example. Pruning trees helps to keep them healthy and safe. Whilst in some cases, it’s simple enough to trim trees yourself, sometimes, it’s worthwhile hiring a professional who knows what they’re doing.
House Fires
Did you know that around 43 fires a year are caused by faulty electric blankets, 3 fires a day are caused by heaters, and, in England, 3,800 chimney fires occur each year? [1]
It’s not just heating that contributes to an increased risk of fire during the colder months, with festive decorations and candles also posing a safety hazard. There are many steps you should follow to avoid fires during the winter months, including testing electric blankets regularly and turning them off before you get into bed, ensuring heaters are uncovered and away from curtains, and never leaving fairy lights or candles unattended.
Insurance
Whilst we do our best to avoid hazards as winter descends, unfortunately the risk of unforeseen events that could disrupt your life and your finances is still amplified. Having adequate insurance cover is crucial during this season to safeguard your home, your health, and your peace of mind. For example - home insurance provides a financial lifeline against winter-related damage to your property. Whether it's a burst pipe from freezing temperatures, a roof leak caused by heavy snowfall, or damage from a winter storm, home insurance can help you cover the costs of repairs and replacements.
Accident protection insurance is equally important for the winter months, as the risk of slips and falls increases on icy sidewalks and snow-covered surfaces. This coverage can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with accidents caused by winter hazards.
By investing in insurance cover, you can navigate the winter season with greater confidence, knowing that you're protected against the financial burdens that unexpected events may bring.
Talk to Us
By understanding winter hazards, taking preventative measures, and reviewing your insurance policies each year, you can enjoy the beauty of winter while protecting your home and loved ones safe. At Owl Financial, we’re here to help you make sure you have the right cover to protect you through winter – get in touch with a specialist Owl Financial Protection Adviser to find out more.
Approved by Openwork Limited on 27/11/23
[1] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6287b5f8d3bf7f1f44695435/Fire_Safety_in_the_Winter_v4_-_Web_accessible.pdf
