IBC to Ontarians: prepare for a winter thaw

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has published its ‘top 10 tips’ to prepare for a winter thaw and is encouraging Ontarians to take heed.

“With a warm-weather system quickly moving into Ontario this week, especially through the northern regions of the province, there is potential for significant snowmelt, ice jams, and flooding,” IBC vice president for Ontario and Atlantic Amanda Dean said in a release.

“It is important that property owners and renters take necessary precautions and protect their properties to minimize potential damage. By following a few simple steps, residents can better protect their families, homes, and businesses.”    

IBC recommends the following tips that brokers could pass on to their clients:

1. Keep all of your basement floor drains clear.
2. Make sure downspouts are clear of debris and that they direct water away from your home to help prevent ice-damming on roofs and basement flooding.
3. Move valuable items out of your basement to higher levels in your home.
4. Create an emergency preparedness plan for your family and assemble, or top-up, disaster safety kits for your home, car, and office.
5. Prepare for power outages. Have flashlights and portable lighting ready. When using candles, always be mindful of fire hazards.
6. If flooding is imminent, and it is safe to do so, shut off electricity to the areas of the home that may be affected, and use sandbags or install flood shields or built-up barriers to stop water from entering through basement windows and doors.
7. Have someone check your property if you are away.
8. Charge electronics and have backup power sources available.
9. If you need to drive, clear all of the snow and ice from your vehicle before you start out. Drive according to the conditions, and do not drive over flooded roads.
10. If you have a detailed home inventory, check that it is up to date.

According to The Weather Network, a February thaw is sweeping Ontario amid “temperature anomalies”.

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