Risk & Business Magazine General Insurance Service Spring 2023 | Page 12

HOME SAFETY
MEGAN HERROLD , CLIENT SERVICE ADVISOR , GENERAL INSURANCE SERVICES

Home Safety Considerations

BY MEGAN HERROLD

Warm summer weather may seem far away right now ; however , spring is fast approaching , and it is time to start thinking about heading outdoors . It is never too late to start home maintenance to keep you and your family safe . Here are a few safety tips you will want to be sure are in place .

OUTDOOR SAFETY
Outdoor maintenance is more than having the greenest lawn on the block . It is one of the first steps in protecting your home from damage and accidents . As a landowner , you have an obligation to protect anyone coming onto your property from getting injured and to protect your home from any damages . The next time you are outside , you should consider the following :
• Ensure trees and landscaping are not touching the home
• Clean up any tripping hazards
• Keep any chemicals , pesticides , or fertilizers in a secured location
• Inspect walkways for cracks or unlevel surfaces
• Scout out and remove toxic plants
• Install and / or maintain outdoor lighting
• Protect against harmful bugs , rodents , and animals
HOME SAFETY
Outdoor safety does not end in the yard . It also continues to the outside of your home . Keeping up on your home maintenance will help lessen unexpected repairs and will help catch issues before they become a problem . Consider the following :
• Inspect siding for chipped paint , cracks , holes , or missing pieces
• Inspect the roof for any damages or debris
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