An Ounce of Prevention: Prep Your Home and Car for Winter Safety

In New England, winter brings more than frosty mornings and an early dusk. Ice storms, heavy snowfall and freezing conditions often lead to a rise in homeowners and auto insurance claims. At The Dowd Agencies, we understand how winter weather impacts our region, and we believe in the power of prevention. Here, we offer a few proactive steps to prep your home and car for winter safety, helping you reduce risks and avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Inspect and Maintain Key Home Systems

Your home’s heating, plumbing and roofing systems take on the brunt of winter weather. Now is the time to:

• Schedule a furnace inspection and replace filters.
• Check insulation in attics, basements and crawl spaces.
• Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams.
• Inspect the roof for loose shingles or signs of damage.
• Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.

Regular maintenance and seasonal inspections can prevent costly repairs and reduce the chance of winter-related insurance claims.

Prepare for Ice and Snow Removal

Ice and snow create a variety of hazards that can impact both physical safety and legal responsibility. Make sure you are ready before the first storm hits:

• Stock up on ice melt, sand and snow shovels.
• Service snow blowers and other winter equipment.
• Clearly mark driveways and walkways for plowing.
• Trim overhanging branches that may snap under snow load.

A well-prepared property is safer for residents, guests and service providers—and may help reduce your exposure to liability claims.

Winterize Your Vehicle

Vehicle breakdowns and accidents increase during cold-weather months, but many are preventable with proper preparation. To keep your car road-ready:

• Install winter tires or check tire tread and pressure.
• Test your battery and replace it if needed.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full.
• Replace wiper blades and refill windshield washer fluid.
• Pack an emergency kit with blankets, flashlight and snacks.

The same proactive measures that help protect you and your passengers on winter roads can help prevent the need for an auto insurance claim.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Winter is the ideal time to make sure your homeowners and auto insurance policies are ready for the season ahead. As a locally owned agency with deep roots in Western Massachusetts and Vermont, The Dowd Agencies knows how to navigate New England winters. Our experienced team can help you understand your coverage, address potential gaps and provide peace of mind—no matter what the season brings.

Reach out to speak to an expert or get a quote today.