Winter storms are a regular part of life in Canada. Snow, freezing rain, ice, and extreme cold can arrive quickly and cause damage to homes, vehicles, and personal property. While it’s not possible to prevent a winter storm, taking the right steps ahead of time can help limit risks and reduce the chance of costly repairs.
Preparing early also helps keep your family safe and ensures your home is better protected throughout the winter season.
What to Do When Snow and Ice Arrive
Keep walkways clear
During winter, homeowners are generally responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, driveways, and other walking areas around their property. This helps prevent slips and falls and keeps pathways safe for visitors and neighbours. When shovelling, avoid pushing snow onto the road, as it can create traffic hazards and interfere with snowplows. Many municipalities have bylaws around snow removal, so it’s a good idea to check local requirements.
Watch for ice buildup on roofs
Ice dams often form when snow melts and refreezes along the edge of a roof or inside gutters. Over time, this can lead to leaks and water damage inside your home. Removing excess snow with a roof rake from the ground may help reduce ice buildup. If ice dams continue to form, a roofing professional can assess the situation and suggest long-term solutions.
Preparing the Inside of Your Home
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Winter increases the use of furnaces, fireplaces, and other fuel-burning appliances. Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because it cannot be seen or smelled. Regularly testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replacing batteries when needed helps ensure these safety devices work properly when you need them most.
Create an emergency preparedness plan
Winter storms can lead to power outages, travel delays, and limited access to supplies. Having a plan in place helps reduce stress during unexpected situations. An emergency kit should include items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, and a basic first-aid kit. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is stored and what to do during an emergency.
Steps to Take Before Temperatures Drop
Clean gutters and secure downspouts
Before winter arrives, clear leaves and debris from eavestroughs and make sure downspouts are firmly attached. Snow and ice can become very heavy, pulling loose gutters away from your home. Proper drainage also helps prevent water from pooling near your foundation when snow melts.
Trim nearby trees and branches
Heavy snow and ice can cause weak or overhanging branches to break. Trimming trees near your home reduces the risk of damage to your roof, windows, or vehicles. If you’re unsure which branches pose a risk, a professional assessment can help identify problem areas.
Protect pipes and outdoor faucets
Pipes located in unheated areas or outside your home are more likely to freeze during winter. Shut off water to exterior faucets, drain any remaining water, and disconnect hoses. Taking these steps can help prevent frozen or burst pipes, which often lead to expensive repairs.
Why Winter Preparation Matters
Preparing for a winter storm is about more than convenience. It helps protect your home, reduces safety risks, and may prevent insurance claims caused by avoidable damage. Regular maintenance and simple precautions can make a meaningful difference throughout the winter months.
At Choice Insurance Services, we encourage Canadian homeowners to take a proactive approach to winter safety and ensure their insurance coverage is ready for the season ahead.
