Protecting Nova Scotians Since 1904
Protecting Nova Scotians Since 1904
Loss Prevention / Safety Inspection
We take pride in our loss prevention program. The efforts of our loss prevention team will significantly reduce the chance
that you may suffer a loss.
•
Loss Control Technicians, WETT (Wood Energy Technical Trained) certified;
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Safety Inspections reduce:
o
risk of fire and loss of life;
o
frequency of claims and stabilize policy rates,
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A cost free safety inspection of your property at the time a new policy is arranged and on a regular basis thereafter;
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Lower loss ratios provide for premium rebates to clients.
Water Damage
Take measures to prevent water damage:
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Loose or worn hoses to dishwashers, washing machines,
etc. should be checked regularly
•
During freezing conditions, outside taps should be drained
•
If you are going away for a period of more than four days,
shut your water off or arrange for a competent person to
check your home daily
Lightning or Electrical Surges
Take precautions to prevent damage as a result of lightning or
electrical surges:
•
Use ULC or CSA approved surge protectors on appliances or
satellite receivers and personal computers
•
Avoid using extension cords
•
Proper fusing is essential
Pellet Stoves
To get peak performance from you pellet stove, follow the maintenance procedures
outined in your owner’s manual.
•
Regularly clean and inspect your vent system and heat exchanger;
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Inspect and clean the firebox and burn pot as required;
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Inspect and replace worn gaskets;
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Clean and lubricate fans and air filters;
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Clean your hopper of pellets and fines once every ton of fuel, or as required;
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Store your fuel in a clean, dry place;
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Ensure adequate clearances from vent pipe and appliances;
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Remove all fuels from the hopper at the end of the heating season.
Wood Stoves
Inefficient wood burning appliances can be a fire hazard.
To ensure safe and efficient wood burning:
•
Installation should be carried out by a WETT (Wood Energy
Technical Trained) certified professional;
•
Your wood burning appliance should be maintained annually by a
WETT certified professional;
•
Always burn properly seasoned, clean, split dry wood that is a
mix of hard and soft wood.
Your Chimney
Keep your chimney clear and cleaned. Before and after the cold season
make sure that:
•
Your chimney is cleaned on a regular basis;
•
Creosote has not built up in your chimney or smoke pipe. It’s the
real culprit and not always obvious to the eye;
•
Check brick chimneys for deteriorating bricks and mortar;
•
Have a WETT (Wood Energy Technical Trained) certified
professional examine your chimney and clean it if need be.
Your Fuel Oil Tank
A fuel oil spill can impact the environment, family health and result in substantial
financial loss. Common causes of oil spills are:
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Pinhole leaks from interior or exterior corrosion;
•
Damaged fuel lines or filters from falling snow or ice;
•
Oil tank legs collapse from corrosion;
•
Leaking pump atomizer, or fuel oil filter;
•
Valves or fuel lines burst from pressurization during the filling process when a
vent pipe is blocked;
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Leaking underground storage tanks;
•
Oil tank topples as a result of an unstable base or footing;
•
Oil tank is overfilled at the time of delivery;
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Vehicle impact to outside oil tank.
Your Roof
Eventually your roof will need to be replaced. Remember, home
maintenance is your responsibility and not your insurance
company’s. On a regular basis, your should:
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Check your roof for loose or missing shingles;
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Check for leaks;
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Check flashing around chimney, vents, etc., and
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Maintain proper ventilation in the attic area.
Your Sump Pump
Ensure that:
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Your pump is plugged in;
•
Your float switch and back check valve are in working order;
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Your backup power source is working properly;
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Your pump is tested!
Personal Safety
For your personal safety in your home, install and maintain:
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Smoke Detectors;
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Fire Extinguishers, and
•
Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
Fraud Issues
Insurance fraud is a huge problem that costs your money. If you hear
of someone committing insurance fraud, we encourage you to report
them to us at 1-800-565-7220 or call Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-
800-222-8477. Your call will remain completely anonymous and if
your tip leads to a conviction, you may be eligible for a cash reward.
