How to Manage Risks at Home

• Protect your home from property risks

  There are many things you can do to identify and act on common property risks year-round. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself, your family and your home – indoors and outdoors.

  • install and regularly check all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

  • have your furnace inspected annually and clean or replace air filters regularly

  • clean and empty the lint filter in your clothes dryer after and before each use

  • keep all your floor drains clear of obstructions

  • install a sump pump or make sure the one you have is working properly and consider a backup power source in the event of a power outage

  • install backflow valves on drains, toilets and other sewer connections

  • help prevent frozen pipes by fitting with insulation sleeves

  • minimize potential basement water damage by elevating your furnace, hot water heater and electrical panel or relocate them to a higher level

  • don't store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects where they can be damaged

  • ensure all plumbing fixtures are running properly and test plumbing shut-off valves

  • don’t furnish or keep expensive items in areas – such as your basement – that may be prone to flooding

  • inspect your attic for water damage or frost accumulation and check your roof for ice dams or icicles

  • make sure eavestroughs and downspouts are clear of debris and direct water away from your building(s)

  • ensure there is proper grading sloping away from your home

  • disconnect your garden hoses before winter

  • trim tree branches away from your home and electrical wires

  • while you are away in the winter have someone check your home every day or every few days, depending upon the conditions in your policy

  • secure any loose patio furniture and barbeques when a windstorm is on its way

  • clear snow away from your house, especially pathways, basement windows, doorways, drains, gas meters and exhaust vents

  • check catch basins on the street to ensure they are not obstructed after a storm

What to know about personal liability risks at home

• Prevent slips, trips and falls

  You're responsible for keeping your property and areas such as stairs, walkways and driveways reasonably safe. You may be held liable for slips, trips and falls if you fail to keep your property free from hazards.

  Before someone visits or you host an event, make sure you address these common home hazards:

  1. Snow and ice. Use salt, shovel and/or sand to keep walking surfaces clear of ice and snow within bylaw timeframes and/or local best practices.

  2. Steps, slopes and gaps. Fix unexpected elevation changes, surface cracks or gaps within your property line or if you are a tenant notify your property owner. Condominium owners should report issues such as uneven common sidewalks to their condominium administration.

  3. Wet or slippery surfaces. Use non-slip floor covering over slippery surfaces such as wet or tile floors.

  4. Handrails. Repair or replace loose and missing stair handrails.

  5. Debris. Remove any debris – such as slippery, wet fall leaves – on walking paths.

  6. Lighting. Ensuring all areas are adequately lit.

• Know your liquor liability as a host

  Whether you’re a homeowner, condo owner or tenant, you may be held responsible for your guests' actions – even after they leave – if you serve them alcohol or cannabis.

  Here are 5 tips to help keep everyone safe:

  1. Ask who the designated driver is when your guests arrive.

  2. Ensure there are non-alcoholic beverages and food options available.

  3. Stop serving alcohol or cannabis several hours before you think guests will leave and start serving start serving coffee, tea or water.

  4. Have cash on hand for cabs and/or an extra bedroom made up for last-minute overnight guests.

  5. Keep watch and don't hesitate to ask for someone's keys if you have concerns about their ability to drive.