As temperatures drop and holiday activities pick up speed, insurance claims can spike. Want to keep your family and property as safe as possible through the winter and beyond? Here’s what to keep in mind. 

Fire Prevention 
Heaters, candles and decorations help to make the season cozy and bright. Unfortunately, all three can increase your risk of a home fire. 

Reduce the chance of a mishap by keeping anything combustible at least 12 inches away from heat sources or open flames. And of course, be sure to extinguish candles and turn off space heaters when no one is around to monitor them.

Break-In Deterrents 
If you’re heading out for a day of shopping, make sure your vehicle and your home are secure by locking all doors and windows, keeping valuables out of sight and making use of smart safety technology.

Shopping online? Have packages shipped to you at work or ask a stay-at-home neighbor to collect them from your doorstep soon after they arrive. 

Road Safety 
Now’s also the time we start seeing an uptick in traffic volume and accidents. Between busy holiday travel days and possible inclement weather, drivers have a lot to watch out for. 

Here are some reminders to help you avoid an accident:

  • Don’t text or try to multitask while behind the wheel. 
  • Don’t use cruise control when the weather is icy or snowy. 
  • Prevent skids by gradually accelerating and decelerating.
  • Leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles when you can.

Practicing good sense at home and on the road means you’ll have less to worry about and more time to spend with your loved ones.

Have questions? Reach out today.

Happy Holidays from Puffenbarger Insurance and Financial Services.

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