MMA Blog

Jack Frost Nipping at Your Home - Tips for winterizing and protecting your property this season

Winter can be a magical time of year, but it also brings challenges for homeowners. From managing snow and ice to reducing fire risk, a few simple steps can help keep your home and family safe. Plus, winterizing your home doesn’t just protect your property, it helps prevent accidents and liability issues. Here’s your guide to preparing for whatever Jack Frost might throw your way.

1. Manage ice and snow to reduce liability

Snow-covered landscapes are beautiful, but with them comes the responsibility of preventing slips and falls. Regular shoveling and deicing walkways, driveways, and steps can reduce injuries for you and anyone visiting your home — limiting your liability risk.

2. Inspect trees and branches for potential hazards

Heavy snow and ice can add significant weight to tree branches, making them more likely to snap and potentially damage your property. Before winter settles in, inspect the trees around your home and trim any overhanging branches — helping avoid costly repairs and insurance claims.

3. Clean your ducts, vents and chimneys for fire prevention

Winter means spending more time indoors with the heating system and the dryer running full blast, increasing the risk of household fires. Dirty air ducts and clogged dryer vents are common culprits for house fires. To reduce the risk:

  • Clean your dryer vent at least once a year. If you have a long dryer vent, large family, pets and lots of bulky items, you may need to clean your dryer vent three or more times a year. 
  • Have your air ducts cleaned by a professional every three to five years. And clean or replace air filters regularly.
  • Make sure your chimney is inspected and cleaned. The National Fire Protection Association recommends cleaning your chimney at least once a year, regardless of how often you use it. If you use your fireplace frequently, you may need to clean it more often.

A household fire can spread quickly, potentially affecting not only your home but also your neighbors’. Reducing fire hazards creates a safer environment for everyone nearby.

4. Check smoke detectors and replace batteries

Working smoke detectors are essential year-round, but especially in winter, when heating systems, fireplaces, candles, and holiday lights are in use. Test each smoke detector in your home and replace batteries at the start of winter.

5. Clear accumulated snow and ice on your roof

Snow and ice accumulation on roofs is a risk factor for structural damage. In extreme cases, the extra weight can cause a roof to collapse. Clearing snow off your roof as needed can prevent this issue, and specialized snow rakes can help you remove buildup safely from the ground.

6. Review your insurance coverage

Winter weather can increase your risk of liability and bring unexpected damage to your home and vehicles. To give you peace of mind, now is an ideal time to make sure your homeowner's, auto, and other insurance policies are up to date.

Don’t go it alone – reach out to us!

If you’re uncertain about your current coverage or want advice on the best ways to protect your property this winter, contact us. Our team is happy to review your personal policies, provide guidance on customized coverage options, and answer any questions you may have.

Erika Close is a Personal Insurance Business Development Coordinator with MMA, specializing in personal insurance and offering advice for individuals and families’ unique needs. To connect with Erika, please email Erika.Close@MarshMMA.comor call (406) 327-6587.

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