Previous article
For many cottagers, May 24 is known as the weekend to “open the cottage.” It is an annual ritual – time to check for winter damage, turn on the water and electricity, and clean the cottage in preparation for the exciting summer months that lie ahead.
While many cottagers are concerned about possible break-ins, according to Allstate Insurance of Canada theft accounted for only 12 per cent of cottage-related claims in 2009. In fact, wind related damage was the number one cause for claims, followed by water and fire damage.
Allstate offers the following tips to help prepare yourself, your family and your cottage for a safe season:
- Keep your yard clear: Strong winds can turn lawn furniture, barbecues and tree branches into destructive missiles. Keep the area surrounding your cottage clear of any objects which could potentially become airborne and cause significant damage.
- Secure your roof: Your roof is the most important and vulnerable part of your cottage. There are many options available that provide additional protection. To find out what is best suited for your property, have your roof professionally inspected and keep it well maintained.
- Trim the trees: Remove weak trees and trim branches which could fall on your cottage causing avoidable damages.
- Clear your eavestroughs: Regularly clean and maintain your eavestroughs and downspouts to make sure they are not clogged with debris.
- Clean your chimney: If you have a chimney or woodstove have it professionally cleaned and inspected for damage. A professional may be able to spot hazards you wouldn’t be able to see yourself.
- Check your BBQ: Clean barbeques and heating appliances before use. Check propane tanks regularly for leaks, loose connections or blockages.
- Check before starting fires: Contact your local fire department, municipality or the Ministry of Natural Resources for any restrictions on burning before starting campfires or burning brush. Never leave a fire unattended.
- Install and maintain smoke detectors: Protect your family by installing smoke detectors on every floor of your cottage. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once year. Also, have a fire extinguisher on every floor.
- Store boats safely: Fibreglass, the most commonly used material in canoes and boats, is extremely flammable. Be sure to store them away from any buildings and lay them upside down, one metre above ground level, either on a rock or clearing.
- Check your insurance: Check with your insurance provider to ensure you have sufficient coverage.
For more information on how to protect your cottage or to arrange an interview with Amy Woods, Allstate’s official spokesperson, please contact:
Ingrid Pulpan
Thornley Fallis Communications
(416) 515-7517, ext. 341
pulpan@thornleyfallis.com
