Home Safety
Preventing Grill Fires This Summer
Now that summer is in full effect, people are dusting off their outdoor grill and enjoying the warm weather. But as the weather heats up, and people start using their grills more frequently, grill fires become more and more common. Here are some tips to remember when grilling in order to keep your home and…
Read MoreHalloween Safety Tips for Homeowners
Halloween is almost upon us! While our children look forward to this holiday full of festivities, costumes and candy it is important that be mindful of the added liability exposure this day brings to your home. We don’t mean to spoil the fun, but there are a few tips you should follow in order to…
Read MoreGree Dehumidifier Recall
A large manufacturer of many common dehumidifiers sold under various brand names has recently recalled its units because of a risk of fire. Gree Announces Dehumidifier Recall If you are using any of the dehumidifiers listed in the above link, please discontinue their use immediately and contact Gree for a refund. Note that in general,…
Read MoreSpace Heater Tips and Risks
A space heater is commonly used to warm a part of a home or office that is colder than desired. Though useful, space heaters can present a fire hazard if not operated correctly. Travelers has put created a short video outlining proper operation of a space heater to minimize the chance of fire. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n71gBxat2iw&list=SPsPkdc_BejTgaurMLCAK1cl6C2rBL0D9d
Read MoreReducing the Risk of Damage from Operating a Washing Machine
A washing machine can pose a significant risk of water damage, especially if it is connected to a home’s water supply by a rubber hose. Hundreds of gallons of water can be released in a short time if the hose breaks while you are out. Travelers has created a short video illustrating the risks involved…
Read MoreHome Insurance and Knob and Tube Wiring
My home was built in 1932 and I have knob and tube wiring in my walls. Is this safe? Many homes built in the before World War II had a type of wiring known as “knob and tube” originally installed. This practice has been discontinued, and modern building codes specify wires plastic, PVC or metal…
Read MoreHome Insurance and Aluminum Wiring
My home was built in 1970 and I have aluminum wiring in my walls. Is this safe? Many homes built in the late 1960’s to late 1970’s had aluminum wiring and components originally installed. This practice has been discontinued, and modern building codes specify copper wiring and components. Aluminum wiring is not necessarily unsafe in…
Read MoreElectrical Fires and Home Insurance
How can I help prevent electrical fires in my home? The risk of electrical fire can be minimized by following some simple rules: – Extension cords should never be run under carpeting or area rugs. Foot and chair traffic may damage the insulation on the cord over time, and exposed wire very possibly can cause…
Read More