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                                                                                                       Barbecue Season Is In Full Swing: Don’t Go Up In Flames


The joys of outdoor cooking also bring fire and associated risks. Here are some safety reminders for gas and propane barbecues to protect you and your property from harm or damage.
•    Never operate a barbecue in an enclosed space, close to a structure, or near combustibles. Have a one metre radius around it free of obstructions. 
•    Keep your barbecue in tip top shape. Check for hose breakage, valve leaks, and other parts before securing the tank well and turning on the gas. 
•    When in use, never leave the grill unattended, and when finished turn the tank off before the burners so the remaining gas in the lines can burn off. This can help prevent a flash the next time the BBQ is in use.
•    Make sure your fire extinguisher is easily accessible and in good working order. 
Additional Tips
•    Propane companies use an additive to create an unpleasant odour like rotten eggs to make a propane leak easier to detect, so you can shut off supply immediately, stop using the grill, and clear the area.
•    Although the risk of carbon monoxide is low when using a BBQ outdoors, it is not entirely eliminated. Learn to recognize the signs of CO2 poisoning and take appropriate action.
•    Store propane tanks in an upright position, in a spot where they are unlikely to be knocked or bumped to prevent any safety risk.
 

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Top 5 Steps to Prevent or Limit Water Damage to Your Home

More frequent severe weather patterns, bigger and better homes containing more contents and finished basements, as well as aging municipal infrastructure, have all contributed to the increase in size and frequency of water damage claims. In 2014, over 3 billion dollars in water damage related claims were paid out by the Canadian insurance industry.  

  1. If your area is susceptible to sewer back-up, make sure your home has a back-flow valve and plugs for drains, toilets and other sewer connections installed.
  2. If you don’t have a sump pump, install one. If you do have one, test it to make sure it is working.
  3. Store items in plastic containers at least 12” off the basement floor.
  4. Keep eavestroughs and downspouts clear of debris and make sure water flow is directed away from the foundation.
  5. Make sure you lot is properly graded to direct run-off away from the foundation and entranceways.