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Tip of the Month

                                                                                                       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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Auto Scam Alert

It is important to use a licensed broker/agent when purchasing insurance. Even if a friend refers you to someone who says they sell insurance, make sure they are legitimate. An unlicensed seller can take cash from a victim to set up an auto insurance policy, but not secure coverage, keep the money, and leave the victim out thousands of dollars and driving without coverage. Sometimes a temporary card is issued  but permanent ones are usually never received nor is the actual policy document. 

This is one example of an increasing number of scams involving the sale of insurance. Criminals are also preying on the public through classified websites like Craigslist and Kijiji, or exploiting referrals through auto repair shops and car dealerships.