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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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E-Bikes - Where's the Liability

                                                  E-Bikes—Where’s the Liability?

Exercise extreme caution when using motorized electronic bicycles, known as “e-bikes”, because they may have no liability coverage.

There is no requirement for an automobile type of policy or driver’s licence to purchase or operate one. In fact, no training is required,  but if you are 16+, you must wear a helmet.

Habitational policies exclude motorized vehicles except for lawnmowers, other gardening equipment, snow blowers, wheelchairs, and motorized golf carts on the golf premises.

A good number of policies also exclude e-bikes and other such vehicles, so if you own and operate one check with your insurance provider to see exactly what you are covered for. You may have no liability coverage if you get into an accident and cause property damage or injure another person. You are still required to identify yourself, however, and may be sued by the injured party.