Winter has a way of inviting us in. Sofas feel softer, blankets are fluffier, and families get closer as we all spend more time indoors. But, while we turn our homes into snug retreats, it’s worth remembering that winter comfort can come with a few hidden risks if we don’t look properly.
“Cold weather changes how we use our homes,” says Wynand van Vuuren, client experience partner at King Price Insurance. “We bring out appliances that have been packed away, and we use more electricity. This is where small oversights can turn into bigger issues.”
Start with the things that bring the heat. Electric blankets and heaters are dusted off after months of disuse, and Van Vuuren suggests looking for worn cords, cracked plugs, or loose connections before switching them on: “When it comes to electric blankets, even small frays or exposed wiring can be dangerous, so replacement is always the safer option if anything looks less-than-perfect.”
Gas heaters come with their own set of precautions: Only use cylinders and gas from reputable suppliers, and always keep a window slightly open to allow airflow and prevent the build-up of harmful gases.
Then, look at the things impacted by water. Freezing conditions can affect geysers and pipes, increasing the chance of leaks or bursts. Van Vuuren advises you to stay alert for water marks on ceilings, damp patches on walls, or changes in water pressure, because catching these issues early can prevent more serious damage later.
When it gets cold outside, many households start to dry their washing indoors, often over heaters, but this can lead to a fire risk and create excess moisture in the air.
This moisture can, in turn, lead to mould, which can damage belongings and harm your health. A dehumidifier is a safer and more energy-efficient way to dry clothes while keeping your indoor air breathable.
Then comes what Van Vuuren calls ‘cosy chaos’. Heaters hum, kettles boil, stews simmer, and all the entertainment devices are used at the same time. This means a warm, happy family but it can also mean that electrical circuits become dangerously overloaded. The simple fix is to spread usage out, avoid overloading a single plug point, and install a circuit breaker on your distribution board in case of power surges.
Some more seasonal risks and solutions include:
- Fireplaces can add to the temperature and atmosphere provided they’re properly maintained. Clean the chimney regularly, always use a screen to contain stray sparks, and never leave children unsupervised.
- A flickering candle can set the mood but should never be left unattended or placed near soft furnishings that can catch alight easily. Enjoy the glow, but always extinguish it before leaving the room.
- Smoke detectors and an easily accessible fire extinguisher bring your home’s safety rating right up. But remember, knowing how to use an extinguisher is just as important as having one…
- Nothing warms your feet like a hot water bottle, but check them for leaks or cracks before filling them, and then make sure they’re closed properly, to help prevent burns from boiling water.
- It’s tempting to keep the heat turned up all night, but it’s much safer (and kinder to your electricity bill) to unplug heating devices before going to sleep or leaving the house.
Van Vuuren says that warmth should be comfortable, not questionable, and having the right insurance in place is a sure-fire way to guard your home against winter’s warning signs: “Think of insurance as part of your cold weather routine. You wouldn’t step out into the cold without a jacket and scarf, and keeping your home warm deserves the same kind of layered protection.”
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Author: Nhlalenhle Dlangalala from ByDesign Communications on behalf of King Price Insurance.
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