Trading in mosquito nets for big screen TV sets – Ontario's baby boomers aren't exactly roughing it in the great outdoors anymore.

As boomers trade in their corner offices for an escape to the lake, the once rustic weekend getaway is increasingly taking on the look of urban living with all the fancy accessories that go with it - from flat screen TVs to designer ranges.

But unlike a city home, far too many Canadian boomers upgrade the cottage without seriously considering how to protect it in the event of a severe storm or burglary. It's no longer the humble abode it once was and to ensure that you secure your comfort and personal savings for years to come, it's critical that any upgrades are accompanied by a home insurance update.

"It's paramount for cottage owners to ensure their properties are well protected, particularly during the off-season when they're not there to supervise the property," said Michael Robinson, president of PBL Insurance Limited. "The last thing cottage owners want is to be worrying about their summer sanctuaries in the off-season and there are a number of steps they can take to provide them peace of mind."

While conducting annual building maintenance, including modest security measures, is vital, having an appropriate insurance policy is now increasingly a must for cottage ownership. Of the many options available for boomers to protect against the various pitfalls, PBL Insurance Limited offers WA's 50 Unique, an insurance solution that couples home and auto coverage and is designed to cater to the needs of Ontarians aged 50 or older, including a number of options for seasonal homeowners to ensure their property is protected.

Also, to help protect your cottage against theft, PBL Insurance Limited offers the following tips:

- Use solid hardwood or metal doors with deadbolt tamper-proof door locks while away from the cottage
- Avoid keeping valuables at the cottage while away for extended periods
- Ask a neighbour to check on the property during the off-season
- Don't forget about the other buildings you may have such as a garage or shed - lock up roof and vent openings to keep the squirrels away. Protect chimneys with a cap
- Talk to your local insurance broker to ensure you have the insurance coverage that's right for you

For more information about protecting your cottage or how to insure it, contact PBL Insurance Limited or visit www.pblinsurance.com.

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Matt Duffin
mduffin@apexpr.com
416.924.4442 Ext 237