Keeping your sidewalks safe this winter

November 9th, 2011  |  Home Insurance

Making snowy and icy sidewalks and front walkways safe for the public should always be a priority. This is important for two reasons: preventing anyone from injuring themselves in a fall; and protecting yourself from a fine, or worse, a lawsuit. 

Municipalities have varying rules and regulations for the clearing of snow and ice, but homeowners should also be aware that they could be liable should an injury occur on or in front of their property. A number of insurance claims each year involve injuries resulting from falls on ice and snow. And while an insurance policy is there to protect you from such hardship, a few simple steps can prevent action being taken:

• Don’t wait to shovel – Start removing the snow soon after it’s fallen, even if it means having to shovel twice – two lighter loads will be easier on your back and arms than tackling it all at once.

• Salt, salt, salt – It’s cheap and can prevent hard-to-move ice from forming. If you have pets who don’t like the salt on their feet, sand works well, too.

• Invest in the right tools – Brooms for light snow and metal ice breakers for the harder accumulations can both come in handy over the winter.

Remember that everyone will be shopping for snow and ice removal equipment after the first big blast of winter. Get to the store early this year to ensure you’re not left moving snow with your kids’ novelty shovels.

To ensure you have the right home insurance coverage, compare insurance quotes online with HUB InsuranceHunter.ca, and connect with one of our brokers to discuss your insurance needs and what plans work best for you.