American Property Casualty Insurance Association: 7 Winter Safety Tips for Your Home and Vehicle

CHICAGO, Illinois, Dec. 1 -- The American Property Casualty Insurance Association issued the following news release:

Winter's cold, snow and ice can cause significant damage and last year the U.S. experienced one of its costliest winter weather events on record. Winter storms caused nearly $6 billion in insured losses, during the winter of 2022-23, the second-highest year on record for winter storm insured losses in the last ten years.

"With the inevitable arrival of winter's cold and snow for many states, this is the ideal time to take precautions that will help ensure you're ready," said Bob Passmore, department vice president of personal lines for the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA). "It is important to not underestimate the impact winter weather can have on your property."

APCIA encourages consumers to prepare for winter weather by following these tips:

Winter Driving Tips (Safe Driving Tips Infographic [https://www.apci.org/attachment/static/2321/]):

* Hazardous road conditions make it even more important to take safety precautions and drive defensively. Slow down, put down your phone, buckle up, and keep extra distance between your car and other vehicles.

* Winterize your car by checking your antifreeze, battery, tires, and windshield wiper fluid. Make sure your headlights, taillights, and emergency flashers are working.

* Prepare an emergency travel kit with items such as blankets, jumper cables, a shovel, a flashlight, salt, flares, and other emergency supplies. A toolkit, bottled water, and snack food are also useful items to include.

* Always keep at least half of a tank of gas in your car.

If in an auto accident, it is important to take the following steps:

* Stay calm.

* Get immediate help if anyone is hurt.

* If possible, move the vehicle out of traffic to a safe place. Use emergency flashers to alert oncoming cars.

* Call the police to report the accident.

* Secure and conceal any valuables before exiting the vehicle.

* Write down the other driver's name, address, phone number, vehicle make, license number, insurance company and insurance policy number. If possible, get the witnesses' names, phone numbers and addresses.

* Exchange insurance and contact information only.

* Examine the damage to any vehicles involved.

* Contact your insurance company immediately to report the claim. If possible, take pictures of any damage to vehicles as it may help with the claims process.

Cold Weather Homeowners Tips (Common Winter Hazards Infographic [https://www.apci.org/attachment/static/2301/]):

* Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires. It is important to keep anything that can burn at least three feet from heating equipment (furnace, fireplace, wood stove, and portable heater).

* Frozen water pipes represent the biggest potential problem for most homes. A little advance planning will usually prevent frozen pipes. Insulate your pipes, especially those leading to the outside, and plug holes around the pipes with insulation or spray-in foam. Make sure there is warm air flowing around pipes that are located near an outside wall. Check pipes under sinks to make sure they will get adequate heat.

* Make sure there is clear access to the main water shut-off valve in case there is a leak or a pipe suddenly bursts.

Visit our site for more information about Preparing for Winter Weather and Updating Your Insurance Coverage (https://www.apci.org/winterstorms/)

According to scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this year winter is expected to be heavily influenced by the first strong El Nino in years. El Nino winters typically bring wetter and cooler weather to the southern U.S. while the north becomes drier and warmer.

"No matter what the forecast trends are, wet and wintery roads could soon dominate the landscape and contribute to why cars crash," said Passmore. "Being prepared for driving on slick roads is significant as the U.S. continues to experience a high level of auto accidents and fatalities. Roads can be particularly hazardous in the winter months and the dangers can be compounded by distracted driving or impaired driving."

Winter storms can cause significant damage that not only impacts drivers, but also homeowners and business owners. Extreme weather, burst pipes, tree limbs falling, roof or deck collapses can add up to record numbers of insurance claims.

Last Year's Winter Storm Elliot: $3.5 billion in Insured Losses

"Winter Storm Elliot, which occurred late December 2022, was a strong reminder of the importance of being prepared and resilient during the winter months," said Passmore. "The storm resulted in approximately $3.5 billion in insured losses. Following this storm, frozen pipes and water claims jumped over 400 percent overall.

Claims associated with burst pipes occurred in both northern as well as southern states which are not accustomed to the freezing weather. In 2021, Winter Storm Uri, an unprecedented ice storm, devastated communities across Texas. These storms highlight the importance of having a plan in place and taking steps to winterize your property."

Insurers are prepared to work with consumers to minimize their inconveniences and help make the claims process go as smoothly as possible. APCIA recommends that at least once a year, homeowners should talk with their insurance agent or company to review their policy.

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Original text here: https://www.apci.org/media/news-releases/release/78130/