Much like the nation’s geese, Canadians love to fly south for the winter.

In fact, the state of Florida alone receives about a million seasonal visitors, many of whom are from Canada and affectionately known as snowbirds.

Many snowbirds are retired or have professions that allow them to work off site for a period of the year in warmer climates to escape the bitter cold. Yet, it’s important to remember that before you head out for some much-needed R&R in the sunshine state, you make sure you’ve taken care of all your affairs back home to prevent a premature and possibly costly trip home.

“So many Canadians leave their homes for several months at a time each winter; yet, not all of them have taken proper precautions to ensure their property and health is protected before they leave,” said Julia Oosterman, spokesperson for leading home, auto and business insurer RSA.

To help give snowbirds peace of mind while they are away, RSA offers the following pre-departure tips:

• Keep a watchful eye: Arrange to have a family member, friend or neighbour you trust check in on your property periodically to ensure everything is fine

• Triple check: Check at least three times that you’ve turned off the stove, oven and other potentially dangerous appliances

• Leave pipes thirsty: Be sure to turn off the water to outdoor faucets before leaving; failing to do so could cause pipes to freeze and eventually burst

• Don’t sweat it: Unless someone is staying at your home regularly while you’re away, turn the heat off to conserve energy, save money and prevent condensation build up within your roof

• Be alarmed: Notify your alarm company that you’re leaving for an extended period and be sure your house alarm is set before you head out

• Rest assured: Call your insurance broker to ensure your home is properly protected in the event of weather damage or theft while you’re away

For more information about how to prepare for the unexpected while you’re away, visit www.rsagroup.ca.

- 30 -

Matt Duffin
mduffin@apexpr.com
416.924.4442 Ext 237