Some preventive measures you can take:

Preventing Water Damage:

• Stay in the bathroom while filling the bathtub.
• Check that the silicone around the bathtub and shower is in good condition.
• Ensure that all members of your family know where your home’s water shutoff valves are (inlet valves for water main, water heater, washing machine, dishwasher, sinks and toilets).
• If your water heater is over 10 years old check it regularly for signs of wear.
• In the Fall, make sure your gutters and downspouts are not clogged.
• Always shut off the water supply to outdoor taps before winter, and unhook any hoses attached.
• Carefully inspect your doors, windows and foundation each year to repair cracks and recaulk wherever needed.

Preventing Fires:

• Equip your home with smoke detectors. If they are well located and maintained, they can save your life. Clean them regularly and replace the batteries twice a year (for example: in March and November when the clocks change).
• Equip your home with a fire alarm system connected to a remote monitoring center.
• Place one or more fire extinguishers in locations that all family members can access easily and be sure you know how to use them properly.
• Be careful when using cooking oil.
• Clean cooking surfaces, walls and the range hood regularly, as grease deposits can catch fire easily.

For more information please see the Insurance Bureau of Canada website.

In the event of a loss it is important to know the value of your possessions. Make sure to keep an up to date inventory.