We mean that literally! Failing to clear heavy snow from your roof could cause structural weaknesses, leaks, and even buckled roofs. It’s important to clear your snow regularly. Here are a few tips to follow to make sure you clear the snow properly.
Call an expert. The combination of heights plus ice makes this one of the more dangerous maintenance tasks. Consider hiring professionals to do the job.
Use a buddy system. Keep someone around (and on solid ground) to call for help and administer first aid in case something goes wrong.
Don’t climb if you don’t have to. If you have a pitched roof, use a telescoping snow rake to remove snow (available at most hardware stores).
Do the edges last. If you need to climb up, start in the middle and work your way out.
Don’t overdo it. Try to shave the snow down to 2 or 3 inches on the roof instead of scraping the roof clean, which will risk damage to your shingles or other roof covering.
Steer clear of power lines. Metal tools and power lines don’t mix, so make sure to keep a tight hand on all your tools.
Wear protective equipment. Whatever method you use to clear your roof, make sure you take the recommended safety precautions.
For more information about heavy snow and how to clear it, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Keep Your Icicles Strictly LED
Although the icicle effect is beautiful, real icicles can come with a destructive side effect – ice dams.
What are Ice Dams?
Ice dams are caused when portions of the roof reach temperatures above 0°C causing the snow to melt and run down until it hits a section that is lower than 0°C and freezes. Over time this ice build up forms a dam. Because the roof behind this ice dam is still warmer, water gets caught behind the dam and can seep into the shingles causing water damage.
Ice Dam Prevention
Removing snow regularly, following the tips above, can help prevent ice dams from forming, but the better solution is to find and fix the root cause – probably warmth coming from your roof.
Here are some things to check for and steps to take to fix the problem:
Increase your roof insulation and make sure it is distributed evenly and extends all the way to the perimeter.
Seal any potential spots for air leakage through the ceiling.
Adjust your ventilation to draw in cold outdoor air and flush out warmer attic air.
For information about the causes and prevention of ice dams, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Uncover a Strong Sturdy Roof Next Spring
A bit of work through the winter or ahead of time can help you avoid big claims and construction in the spring. While we don’t always associate winter with water damage, we hope these tips help you stay prepared. For more Loss Prevention Tips, check out our Loss Prevention Tips Archive."
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This holiday season celebrate in safety. Make sure added decorations don’t add costs by following these Loss Prevention Tips from Red River Mutual
Decorations
However you plan to celebrate here are a few things to keep in mind as you put up your decorations this year.
Only use lights and extension cords that are in good condition.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions about how many sets of lights can be safely strung together.
Use only indoor lights and extension cords indoors, and outdoor lights and cords for outdoor use.
Use mini or LED lights as they have cool‐burning lights and save electricity.
Never remove the ground pin or file the wide peg of plug as this interferes with the electrical grounding.
Never place extension cords through doorways or under carpets.
Use only non‐flammable or fire-resistant artificial decorations.
Do not use angel hair (glass wool) together with spray-on snowflakes as this combination is very combustible.
Do not use nails, tacks or staples to hang cords and lights as this can damage the insulation on the outside of the wire, causing corrosion or a short circuiting.
For more information on decoration do’s and don’ts, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Christmas Trees
If your holiday decorations include a tree, there are some added precautions you should take when choosing, setting up, decorating, maintaining and removing your tree.
Choosing a Tree - Artificial or Fresh Cut
You can reduce the risk of a Christmas tree fire by choosing to have an artificial tree in your home. They’re beautiful, reusable and fire resistant, making them a safe choice for holiday decorating.
If you love the smell and tradition of a real Christmas tree, make sure to choose one with fresh, green needles that don’t fall off when touched.
Setting up the Tree
Before putting the fresh cut tree in the stand, cut an inch off from the base of the trunk to allow water to be absorbed and keep the tree fresh.
Positioning the Tree
Make sure to place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source that could dry out the tree or cause it to catch fire.
Watering the Tree
If you choose a fresh cut tree, allowing it to dry out can create a serious fire hazard, so be sure to keep the base reservoir full of water. A tree can absorb a surprising amount of water, so make watering part of your daily routine and expect to add at least 3-4 litres a day.
Lighting the Tree
Check lights and cords before using for cracks, frayed wires, damaged light sockets or any signs of wear or overheating. Replace immediately if any problems are found.
Only use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory like CSA or ULC. This proves that the items have been tested and meet Canadian safety standards.
Remember to always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving the house or going to sleep.
Removing the Tree
The biggest risk of Christmas tree fires is after Christmas day. When you’re busy with gatherings or vacations, it’s easy to forget or stop watering and let the tree dry out.
If you know you are going to be away, it’s best to get the tree out of the house or taken down before you leave. Check with your community for recycling depot locations or curbside pick-up schedules.
For more information about Christmas tree safety check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Candles
You may want to set the ambience this holiday season, by lighting a few candles around the house. Here are a few tips to keep flickering flames from becoming roaring fires.
Placing Your Candles
Position candles well away from flammable objects and materials like curtains, lampshades and plants, and well away from any possible contact by pets or children.
Place candles on heat-resistant surfaces which will not transmit heat to the furniture on which they are placed and place them on something to catch any dripping wax.
Keep candles out of drafty locations.
Never move a lighted candle.
Install a smoke detector in every room where candles are burned.
Lighting and Maintaining Your Candles
Never light a candle in a situation in which you might fall asleep before blowing it out.
Never leave a burning candle unattended.
Keep candle wicks trimmed. This will allow your candle to burn cleanly, safely and without smoking. Trim the wick to about 1/4″ every time you burn.
Keep wick trimmings and other debris out of the pool of melted wax.
When blowing out a candle, hold your index finger in front of the flame and blow at it. Air will flow around your finger, extinguish the candle from both sides, and prevent hot wax from splattering.
Religious Gatherings
It’s also important to keep candle safety a priority if you attend any religious gatherings over the holiday season.
Don’t pass around candles from person and when lighting candles at a candle lighting service, have the person with the unlit candle dip their candle into the flame of the lit candle.
If you light a candle that must burn continuously, or will be unattended, enclose it in a glass container in a sink or some other place where it can be surrounded by water.
A safe, fuss-free option is to use an LED alternative.
Celebrate in Safety
We hope these tips and tricks will give you a little peace of mind this holiday season and help you put your money, time and attention towards the ones you love, not an expensive claim situation. "
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In recognition of workplace health and safety month, we’ve compiled Loss Prevention Tips for two high-risk workplaces – commercial kitchens and auto repair shops. Because of the increased risk of fire and health hazards it is important to remain extra vigilant to avoid a claims situation. However, many of these tips can be useful in any workplace. Read on to find out how you can take simple precautions to create a safer work environment and prevent a loss in the future.
Commercial Kitchens
As commercial kitchen technologies, equipment, and cooking techniques continue to advance, so should safety measures. Every kitchen is different, but here are a few things to check for to make sure your workplace is set up to avoid fires and deal with them when they arise.
Exhaust Ventilation
Clean you exhaust vents frequently to avoid grease buildup. Grease buildup can cause kitchen hoods to crack, swell, blister or deteriorate. It can also increase damage caused by fires. By doing regular cleaning and maintenance you can avoid expensive repairs, voided warranties, and an unsafe workplace.
Fire Extinguishers
Keep a K-class fire extinguisher in your kitchen. We suggest making monthly inspections in addition to annual maintenance from a licensed fire service provider to help make sure you are compliant with code and ready in an emergency. It is also important to train your employees to take the role of first responder in the event of a fire.
Appliances
Unplug electrical cords when your appliances are not in us. Cords and combustible items such as potholders, boxes, and plastic utensils should be kept away from hot surfaces and water sources and only microwave-safe utensils and cookware should be used in the microwave. Finally, utilize the kitchen hood to properly vent the kitchen, creating a healthier workplace and decreasing your risk of fire.
Maintenance
Dress for success. You employees’ uniforms should fit appropriately and work correctly for more than aesthetic reasons. Loose-fitting clothes or open jackets are at risk of coming into contact with open flames or hot surfaces. It is also important to warn your employees about the dangers of flammable hair products and loose long hair. Pulling their hair back and using non-flammable products will make them safer when dealing with heat in the kitchen.
Grease Traps
A grease trap or interceptor should be installed by a licensed plumber in your commercial kitchen. It collects grease, preventing it from going down the drain and is required in most communities by a Sewer By-Law. These traps will save you from costly cleanups associated with fat, oil and grease buildup in your sewer. A well-maintained grease trap should be cleaned once a week or when more than 50% full. For more information about Grease Traps and grease trap maintenance, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip and for more information about commercial kitchen safety in general try this Loss Prevention Tip
Auto Repair Safety
Auto repair and body shops are among the businesses which experience fires most frequently. Between the storage of flammable liquids and the risks associated with spray painting and welding the potential for fire is high. It is important to follow maintenance and schedules and recognize situations that could result in a fire.
Here are some general tips that could prevent a fire in your workplace:
Material Safety Data Sheets
Gather MSDS sheets from manufacturers to ensure you’re storing and using materials in a safe manner. Use equipment according to manufacturers’ specifications.
Training
Make sure your employees are properly trained and have proper certification to perform spray painting and welding.
Proper Storage
Store flammable paints, thinners and adhesives in approved fire-rated cabinets away from ignition sources. Store oxygen and fuel tanks separately; away from heat and sunlight in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Equipment Checks
Check electrical equipment to locate wiring that is frayed or cracked and could cause sparks near welding or painting equipment and make sure that equipment is properly grounded.
Work Environment
Make sure your workplace is clean and dirty to avoid accidents. Clean oil spills immediately, remove trash daily and keep oily rags and clothing in a CSA listed closed metal container until you dispose of or launder them.
Labels
Labelling your materials can prevent mix-ups. You should also secure dangerous materials like gas tanks away from high traffic areas.
Heat and Flames
Keep anything that may overheat or spark away from highly flammable work that is highly flammable. This includes space heaters, portable lamps and anything else that may spark or overheat.
You should take extra special precautions when engaging in the following two activities:
Spray coating operations represent a high risk of fire and explosion hazards. Spraying flammable/combustible liquids or materials near any source of ignition or in the presence of a source of ignition can result in serious physical injury or death. Inhalation of materials used in spray coating is a significant hazard as well. For tips, PPE, facility requirements and more, check out this Loss Prevention Tip.
Hot work (like welding) continues to be a leading cause of industrial fires, consistently in the top five across all industries. Taking precautions can save property and lives. For more information about how to ensure your employees safety check out this Loss Prevention Tip.
For more information about keeping your auto repair shop safe and loss free, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Have a Backup
Wherever you happen to work, fires can happen even after all the necessary preventative measures are taken. Should your employees need to evacuate, emergency lights and exit signs will be critical in assisting them to the nearest safe exit. Emergency lights and exit signs require monthly checks and extensive annual inspections, so partner with a fire protection provider to ensure your lights are operational.
This health and safety month, follow these tips and avoid claims situation, while making work safer for you employees. To find more Red River Mutual Loss Prevention Tips go to our Loss Prevention Tips Archive."
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In Canada, heating your home is serious business. Canadian winters don’t mess around, and when it comes to safety – neither should you. Having a well-maintained up-to-date heating system in your home can keep your loved ones safe from the risks that come with extreme cold.
We’ve compiled some safety and loss prevention tips for some of the common, but higher-risk heating options for Canadian homes.
Space Heaters Safety
Space heaters are the leading cause of home fires during the winter months, but disaster can be prevented with a few precautions.
Purchasing Your Space Heater
Only purchase newer models that have overheat protection, a tip-over switch and a guard around the heating element. Look for an option that is listed with a nationally-recognized testing laboratory. Buying older or cheaper options could put your safety at risk.
Placing Your Space Heater
Keep your heater at least three feet away from combustible or flammable items such as drapes and furniture and place it on a flat, level surface away from cluttered or high-traffic areas of the home or sources of water.
Using Your Space Heater
It is important to remember that space heaters are only temporary or supplemental heating, not a permanent solution. Don’t leave them on while you are gone or sleeping. Heaters should also never be used to dry fabric or thaw pipes; both increase your risk of fire and shocks.
Powering Your Space Heater
Use only the fuel recommended by the manufacture as the wrong fuel could burn hotter than the equipment was designed for. When refueling, turn off the heater and let it cool down completely before adding fuel. Wipe away any spills promptly. Before you buy a kerosene heater, check with your local fire department to ensure that it is legal.
For electric heaters, don’t use extension cords to plug in your space heater and keep the heater’s cord in the open. It’s also important to check regularly for frayed wires or damaged insulation. For more information about Space Heater safety check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Domestic Fuel Oil Tank Safety
This type of heating, which is popular in rural areas can put you at risk for oil spills and leaks that can damage the environment, negatively affect your health and damage your property. Here are some preventative measures you can take to protect your home and loved ones.
Be aware of the smell of oil. Fuel oil contains a small amount of benzene, a known carcinogen, so contact your heating contractor immediately of you smell fuel oil.
Ensure your oil tank and heating system is installed by a professional heating contractor to ensure efficiency and safety and have your oil tank, fuel lines and furnace inspected by a certified oil burner technician at least once a year.
Check to ensure that your oil tank is approved by Underwriter’s Laboratories of Canada (ULC) and includes a vent alarm or whistle to prevent overfilling. Never use a used fuel tank or transfer oil from one and consider replacing your tank every 15 years.
Place your oil tanks at least 100 feet from the nearest well and protect tanks located beside driveways with concrete posts to prevent vehicle impact. Install a roof or shield above the tank to protect it from falling snow and ice.
Oil tanks should rest on a solid, non‐combustible, level surface. Tanks should not be touching a wall, resting on wood or raised on stacked blocks.
Finally, it is important to inspect your tank regularly to catch problems early. For a self-inspection checklist, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Wood Stove and Fireplace Safety
Wood stoves and fireplaces can be a source of warmth light and beauty in your home. Here are some tips to prevent that cozy warm flame from turning into a dangerous fire.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Have your wood stove or fireplace inspected annually by a certified specialist and replace or repair any cracked or missing chimney bricks, mortar or corroded flashing. Ash buildup can increase your risk of uncontrolled fires, so remove ash regularly and store it in a covered metal container out of reach of flames. You should also remove any other debris and materials that are flammable from around the hearth. Finally, never restrict the air supply to your stove or fireplace as it can result in a buildup of creosote – increasing your risk of fire further.
Using the Right Fuel and Burning Responsibly
Limit your fuel to dry, well-seasoned wood to avoid creosote buildup and never use flammable liquids to start a fire. The goal is small fires that burn completely and produce less smoke. Never leave your fire unattended and have a fire-extinguisher ready and smoke detector on every floor.
Protecting Your Loved Ones
Place barriers around your stoves and fireplaces, particularly if there is anyone under the age of five in the household and make sure children are supervised around any flames. It’s also important to make sure everyone on the house learns fire safety. For more child-specific safety information, check out this Loss Prevention Tip.
Don’t Sacrifice Safety for Warmth
However you’ve chosen to heat your home, we hope some of these tips help you rest easy knowing you’ve taken precautions to help prevent a loss this winter. For more Loss Prevention Tips, check out our Loss Prevention Tips Archive."
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Your moving date is set, but one question lingers in the back of your mind - is your new home safe for your family? Here are some potential problem areas to look at and correct if needed before the move-in day. If not corrected, some can result in serious injury, or even death. It's worth your time to take a few minutes and make sure your new home is move-in-ready and at Red River Mutual we want to help. Follow this checklist to help you and your loved ones avoid injury and protect your new property.
Home Checklist
Lead-Based Paint
If you’re moving into a house that was built before 1978, take a second look at the paint job. There might be layers of paint below the top-coat that are lead based and pose a real risk when they chip. You can call (1-800-424-LEAD) to get the paint chips analyzed. If lead paint is found it should be removed immediately.
Mold & Mildew
Check your basement walls for mold and mildew. If there is an mold present it is probably an indication of a humid environment. Check your gutters, downspouts and fill in any areas where the grading in the foundation isn’t like the rest of the house. You should also invest in a dehumidifier to prevent possible respiratory illness.
Kitchen
This is a room where electrical appliances and waters have the potential to be in close contact. In addition to keeping countertop appliances away from water sources, ask you electrician about wall sockets that act as a circuit breaker, cover unused plugs with safety plugs and put latches on bigger appliances like freezers. You can also consider safety latches and entrance covers on garbage disposals and switches to keep small hands safe. Finally, make sure you have a fire extinguisher handy.
Electrical
Make sure the previous owner wasn’t a do-it-yourself electrician. If anything from your electrical panel doesn’t look uniform with the other wiring or you find any odd or extra wiring coming out from the closet, floor, ceiling or under carpets, call an electrician. Do not attempt to fix it yourself – this is an area that should only be dealt with by a professional.
Smoke Detectors
Keep a minimum of two smoke detectors per household with at least one on each level and another in the kitchen. We suggest setting a reminder to check the batteries every season.
Stairways
Make sure your stairways are well-lit (additional lighting can be easily added) and keep them free of clutter. If you have children, make sure the railings are less than 8” apart to avoid small heads getting stuck between the bars.
Hot Water Tank
Check your hot water tank for durability and make sure the thermostat is set between 38 and 54 degrees Celsius to avoid accidentally scalding anyone in your home – particularly young children.
First Aid Kit
Make sure the last item you pack and the first item you unpack is a first-aid kit. Moving is full of risks that can result in injury, so keep it on hand and make sure it’s in a handy place for future accidents when you’re done.
For more things to look for and for further childproofing tips check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless and odourless gas. Because you can’t see, taste or smell it, it can affect you or your family before you even know it’s there. Even at low levels of exposure, carbon monoxide can cause serious health problems. You can test your new home for carbon monoxide when you move in and place detectors in the kitchen, the garage, near furnaces, space heaters, wood stoves and fireplaces.
For more things you can do to make sure that you and your loved ones aren’t harmed by carbon monoxide, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Slips & Falls
Slips and falls are one of the most common causes of non-fatal major injuries. All home, business and property owners are responsible for managing the risks of slipping and tripping to prevent injury and liability claims. Effective solutions are often simple, affordable and easy to implement.
Categories of Falls:
Trip & Fall - caused due to encountering a foreign obstacle or object in the walking path.
Stump & Fall- caused when a moving foot comes across an impediment on the surface, which could be a tacky point or a defect that impedes the foot.
Step & Fall - caused when the foot finds an unexpected failure, void or hole in the walking surface.
Slip & Trip - caused when the contact between the sole of the shoe and the floor fails to lend support to the walker's center of gravity.
Preventing Falls in Your Home
Look for slip and trip hazards around the home, including floor coverings and their condition, uneven floors, stairways and handrails, condition of walkways, trailing cables and areas that are sometimes slippery due to spillages. Don’t forget to check any outdoor areas, remembering that weather conditions may be a factor. Snow covered, icy steps and walkways pose a serious slipping hazard.
Installing handrails, proper lighting, clearing clutter, securing rugs and mats, leveling any slopes or stairs and cleaning and clearing any indoor spills or outdoor snow and ice that could cause a fall can protect your family and help you avoid a claims situation.
Check out the full Loss Prevention Tipfor more safety measure you can take to prevent slips and falls in your home.
Now, Enjoy Your New Home
Moving can be hectic and busy, but it’s important to step back and look at safety to make sure you and your loved ones have a home that you can create stories in for years to come. Doing due diligence on moving day and replacing, repairing and upgrading hazardous items in the home might seem like a big investment, but it could save you an even bigger claim in the future.
To find more Red River Mutual Loss Prevention Tips go to our Loss Prevention Tips Archive."
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string(6884) "Summertime in Canada means it’s backyard season. We all need to make the most of the warmer weather, but we also want to be safe while doing it. That’s why Red River Mutual has compiled a list of do’s, don’ts, tips and tricks to make sure your backyard fun doesn’t turn into a claim situation. Let’s start with the main attraction – your BBQ.
Your BBQ
It’s hot, occasionally on fire and in the middle of everything, so it’s important to take precautions before you fire up the grill. Every BBQ comes with its own set of safety instructions, but these are a few steps you can take to keep you and your property safe.
Place your BBQ on a level surface away from the house, garage and anything it might harm such as children or pets. Also keep it away from other flammable or meltable items like deck chairs, wood or vinyl siding.
Never grill inside your home or garage – even if it’s raining.
Never light a propane or natural gas BBQ with the lid closed. Gas buildups can occur resulting in singed eyebrows, or more serious explosions.
If you can’t light your gas or propane BBQ the first few times, turn it off, let the gas dissipate and try again.
Keep lit cigarettes, matches and any sources of gas as far away from the hot surface and grease on your barbecue.
Never use gasoline on a charcoal grill. Only use starter fluids designed for your grill. It’s a case of spend now, save later.
These simple steps can help you prevent small things (like melted siding), but also major losses for you and the people you care about. For more ways to make sure your backyard BBQ is a success check out our full Loss Prevention Tip.
Your Propane
One of the more dangerous items sitting in your backyard might be a propane tank. It’s a necessary part of your successful backyard barbecue, but should be treated with care. Here are some handling and usage tips you can check off to make sure you stay safe.
Transporting your propane tank
Keep valves closed and insert safety plugs – even if the tank is empty.
Always stand it upright and keep it in a well-ventilated area.
Always set it down gently.
Always secure it when transporting in vehicles.
For added peace of mind, try storing it in plastic milk crates.
Never leave it in a vehicle for extended periods of time.
Keep it away from heat or flame.
When Using a Propane Tank
Place and secure it on a firm base, away from excessive heat.
When connecting your propane cylinder, note that the cylinder-valve connection has a left-hand thread. This can only be used with appliances approved for propane.
After you have connected the cylinder, check for leaks. Use soapy water or a leak detector.
Fully open the cylinder valve so that it operates properly.
Always use a pressure-reducing regulator to stabilize your tank.
Do not let the propane cylinder get too hot as the pressure will rise.
That may seem like a lot of things to look out for but mishandling a propane tank can result in expensive claims, and more importantly, harm to the people you love. Keep your propane safely stored and take every safety precaution this summer. For a full checklist check out our Loss Prevention Tip.
Your Backyard
Keeping your backyard in tip-top shape could have benefits that go beyond a nice place to sit down and relax. It could also prevent a fire.
Keeping your grass healthy, cut, and watered to creates a natural firebreak, and cleaning up dead leaves and twigs from your yard, roof and gutters removes chances for fires to start and spread.
Things like using a spark arrester on your equipment to prevent sparking, following the BBQ safety tips above and communicating to any children on the property the dangers of playing with fire can also reduce the risk of a fire starting on your property.
Finally, keeping a water resource on hand is important. You never know when you might need it and saving time by having it handy can save property and lives. For more information about backyard fire hazards, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Your Animals
While you’re looking after your backyard it’s also important to look after the safety of any pets or livestock that share the space. Fire safety is a concern when heat sources are used incorrectly or overlooked. Here’s some tips to keep in mind if you are raising backyard livestock.
Make sure that heat lamps and space heaters are properly secured to keep them from being knocked over.
Keep heat lamps away from anything that can burn.
Ensure that space heaters are designed and approved for permanent heating in agricultural buildings.
Regularly brush cobwebs and dust from light fixtures and electrical outlets.
Choose light bulbs that have covers to protect them from dirt, moisture and breaking.
Do not use extension cords in the animal housing building unless it’s for temporary use.
Choose electrical equipment that is designed for agricultural or commercial use and have all installations done by a qualified electrician.
Be careful with electrically heated animal waterers. Make sure the cord and plug are in good condition and are properly grounded.
Regularly check all electrical wiring for fraying or damage.
Choose electrical outlets and switch boxes designed to keep out dust and water.
Store baled hay away from livestock and ensure hay and bedding storage is not near anything that can burn.
Following these tips may take some extra time and effort, but they’ll keep your livestock and property safer. To learn more about backyard animal safety, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Now, Enjoy Your Summer
Warmer weather brings a lot of perks with it and one of them is the chance to enjoy your backyard. So, sit back and relax knowing you’ve taken the necessary precautions to prevent a claim. Don’t forget to check out our Loss Prevention Tips Archive for more ways to act now and save later."
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No matter what your farm looks like, we can guess there are probably a few fire-related risks around. You may have outbuildings, equipment and even livestock to consider when protecting your farm against fire. While Red River Mutual is here to help you in the event of a claim, we want to show up earlier to help you avoid a devastating loss like this before it happens. So, we’ve compiled a checklist of things to look out for this year that will make it less likely for a fire to happen – and more likely that you’ll be prepared if one does.
General Farm Safety Tips
Farms can be large, and the risks might seem endless, but we’ve broken down some of the key areas to upgrade, check and prepare. Let’s start with some general fire safety tips. While many, or all of these may already be familiar to you, these are often-missed steps that end up resulting in a fire or loss situation. Using this as a backup safety checklist could save you money and time later.
Fire Safety Checklist
Equip crop dryers with controls that will automatically shut off blowers or dampers when they get too hot.
Make sure your family and employees know the barn is a no-smoking zone.
Make sure all refueling stations are outdoors and that everyone you work with knows to turn off their engine prior and to let it cool.
Ensure that your hay is properly dried before putting it in the barn to avoid spontaneous combustion.
Ensure that all electrical installations and wiring are inspected and approved by the hydro authority in your region.
Make sure your incinerator is equipped with a spark arrestor and is located at least 30 meters from any major buildings.
Attach lightning rods to all major buildings.
Label and store pesticides in a separate building.
Make sure all fuel is stored outdoors.
Now, let’s look at some specific tips for a major fire hazard that is present on most farms: flammable liquids.
Flammable Liquid Storage and Use
Vapours from flammable and combustible liquids can ignite, causing a fire. When we say flammable liquids, we mean gasoline, paints and lacquers, or anything else that is easily combustible.
The most important thing to remember is to keep these items away from heat and flame. Store them in a cool, dry and unoccupied place in their original containers if possible. Always keep them firmly sealed and never store them in glass containers.
Second, it is important to deal with spills immediately. If you spill liquids on your clothing, remove the items and dry them outdoors. Once dry, the clothing can be laundered.
The same goes for oily rags. Never leave wet rags in a pile. Instead, spread them out in a safe area to dry and weigh them down so they don’t blow away. When storing the dry rag, place them in a ULC-certified, non-combustible metal container with a self-closing lid. Fill the container with a water and detergent solution which will break down the oils. Never use gasoline as a cleaner, or to break down grease.
A Note on Transferring Flammable Liquids
Transferring flammable liquids come with their own set of rules and safety equipment. For a detailed look, check out this Loss Prevention Tip.
Responding to a Fire
Safety Plan
If a fire does break out, it’s important to have a well-planned fire emergency procedure. Here’s an outline you can use, with modifications for your specific farm.
When a fire breaks out in a house or farm building, evacuate everyone from the building immediately. Normal exits may be blocked, so you must have emergency exits.
Close all the doors and windows (including machinery doors) as you escape the fire; failure to do so may cause air drafts which will fan the fire.
When everyone is out of the building, call your local Fire Services Department. Give them your name, address and the exact location of the fire.
Never allow anyone to re-enter a burning building.
Another key thing to consider when creating your safety plan is the size and location of fire extinguishers.
For more details and resources to use when you build your safety plan, check out this full Loss Prevention Tip.
A Note on Fire Extinguishers
The right type of fire extinguisher in the right place can make the difference between a quickly controlled blaze and a major claim situation.
There are two main uses for a readily-available fire extinguisher
To suppress a fire along an escape route.
To extinguish or contain a fire until the fire department arrives.
If your farm is in a remote area and emergency response time is slow, this makes the presence of a fire extinguisher even more important.
What type of fire extinguisher do I need?
The best type of fire extinguisher for a farm is a multipurpose “ABC” type. This extinguisher will work for ordinary combustible materials (i.e. wood, paper, hay, etc.); flammable liquids (i.e. gas, oil, grease, etc.); and electrical fires. This means that whatever your farm looks like, you have a fire extinguisher that’s up to the job.
What is the right-sized fire extinguisher for me?
You should also consider the size of your fire extinguisher. Different sizes work better in different situations. For smaller farm vehicles and workshops, a 5- to 10-pound ABC extinguisher is recommended. For larger machinery, barns and silos, we recommend having at least a 10-pound ABC extinguisher on hand and an additional pressurized water extinguisher.
For more information on the best type of fire extinguisher for each situation, check out this full Loss Prevention Tip.
Be Prepared
Fires can happen year-round and can have devastating outcomes. It’s important to be cautious and prepared to not only save your property, but lives on your farm. Look around your farm, spot the hazards and take the time now to save later.
For more Loss Prevention Tips for your home and farm, visit our Loss Prevention Tip Archive."
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string(5451) "Spring is the season when farms come to life. The weather gets warmer, workdays get longer, crops are planted and livestock is born. With all that activity, measures that could protect you from a loss can slip through the cracks. At Red River Mutual we want to help pick up the slack.
We’re sharing some Loss Prevention Tips to help keep you and your property safe this spring.
Livestock Handling Safety
When you handle livestock there are a lot of variables. You have to consider both your animals and your equipment. While you can’t completely remove the element of unpredictability that comes with working with living creatures, you can take steps to make sure your equipment is there for you when you need it.
Your Facility
Make sure your chutes and alleys are wide enough for free passage of the animal but not wide enough for the animal to turn around in.
Use catwalks on the outside of the alley or chute so you can keep separation between you and your livestock.
Make sure your walls and chutes are solid.
Place turns in the alley to reduce chances of the animal being frightened from the outside.
Floors should be designed for easy cleaning and to guard against slipping.
You
Always provide yourself with an escape route when working with an animal in close quarters.
Use safety footwear with appropriate soles, leather gloves and clothing that is not overly loose.
Wear adequate respiratory protection to reduce the potential of inhalation of organic dust particles such as animal dander, molds, spores and plant particles.
Carefully follow administration directions for veterinary medicines and take great care to avoid needle sticks or direct personal contact with the drugs or animal body fluids.
Your Animals
Avoid rough handling.
Create a facility that puts their safety first (non-slip floors, avoidance of bright lights)
Avoid loud shouts or noises that could startle an animal.
Taking precautions now could save you from veterinary bills, trips to the hospital, broken equipment and loss of livestock. For more information about safe handling of livestock, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip on Livestock Handling.
Fertilizer Safety
When you work with fertilizer, there’s potential for major accidents. From environmental contamination to explosions.
Hazard reduction and prevention starts with good design and construction, and risk to tanks already in service can be reduced through tank maintenance and inspection.
Avoid purchasing used tanks. Relocation and installation can compromise the structural integrity of the storage unit
Ensure that employees are aware of the hazards. If they know the risks, they’ll take safety measures seriously
Avoid overfilling tanks. This increases your likelihood of damage and accidents.
Perform regular inspections. Look for all possible risks and include a close external inspection for leaks, corrosion, poor welds or any anomalies in the surface of the tank
Check vents for any blockages by. Plugged vents could cause your tank to collapse inward.
For more on Fertilizer safety and tank maintenance, check out the full Loss Prevention Tip.
Transportation Safety
Spring is also an opportunity to dust off your ATV. Whether for work or recreation, it’s important to maintain the condition of your ATV and make sure it’s in tip top shape before you hit the road. Here’s some tips to help you prevent breakages and put your safety first.
Pre-ride inspection
Check the tires or tracks for wear, and rims and for damage.
Look over your controls and make sure connections and cables are intact.
Check the chain for worn links and sprockets for broken teeth and ensure there's enough lubrication.
Ride ORVs in appropriate settings
Avoid roads and streets, since ORVs are not designed nor intended to be driven on concrete or asphalt with larger cars and trucks. Also, avoid improper terrain that may encourage the ORV to roll over due to instability in the ground.
You can find the full Loss Prevention Tip here.
A Safe Farm is a Productive Farm
We know that no two farms look exactly the same – which means the planning required to prevent a loss won’t look the same either. These tips might not be one size fits all, but we hope they help. Putting safety first can prevent big losses down the line, so you can return your focus to what really matters – your farm.
To find more Red River Mutual Loss Prevention Tips, please visit our Loss Prevention Tips Archive."
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Spring cleaning is the perfect time to give your pipes and plumbing a look. Quick checks and minor upgrades now could save you from big headaches later. At Red River Mutual, we want to take out some of the guesswork by giving you a checklist of tips and tricks to avoid disaster. Check out these Loss Prevention Tips and start your Spring with peace of mind.
1.) Check Your Pipes
Once known as "the pipe of the future" Polybutylene plumbing is now hasn’t quite lived up to the name. They’re prone to leaking as the pipes' interior walls and fittings break down and flake apart. If you see grey plastic pipes in your home, or blue, black or grey pipes entering your house from underground, they could be poly. Poly pipes can break down and leak without warning, warranting significant repairs. We suggest replacing them as soon as your budget allows.
For more information about Polybutylene plumbing and how to save money replacing them, check out the full Red River Mutual Loss Prevention Tip.
2.) Check Your Appliances
A leading cause of water damage in homes is the failure of the flexible rubber hoses that connect the washing machine to the hot and cold-water supply lines. Checking your washing machine hoses now could prevent a leak and save you the cost of new flooring or drywall down the line. Hoses that come with new washing machines are typically low quality. We recommend the following precautions to keep your laundry room dry.
Inspect hoses monthly
Keep your washing machine at least 4" from the wall
Upgrade your hoses
While you're checking your washing machine, it's also a great time to check your dishwasher.
For more tips about washing machine maintenance, check out the completeLoss Prevention Tip.
3.) Check Your Septic Tank
Making septic tank maintenance a priority has benefits beyond your peace of mind. It can also prevent accidents that could have a significant impact on your neighbours and the environment. Follow these tips to ensure you can rest easy knowing your septic tank isn't a disaster waiting to happen.
Reduce the amount of water entering the system. Install water‐efficient appliances and devices such as low‐flow toilets and showerheads and maximize your dishwasher and washing machine's capacity.
Use biodegradable or environmentally friendly cleaning products. Chemicals that wash down your drain can harm the good bacteria in your septic tank.
Keep out solids that could clog up the system. This includes fat, grease, oil, coffee grounds, kitchen waste, personal hygiene products, paper towels, medications, disinfectants, bleach, etc.
For warning signs of a failing septic system, check out the Loss Prevention Tip.
Check Now, Save Later
Add these three checks to your list this spring, and you could save yourself an expensive claim this year.
To find more Red River Mutual Loss Prevention Tips, please visit our Loss Prevention Tips Archive."
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The snow is melting, the river thawing, and we're ready for green trees and barbecue weather. What you may not be prepared for is the heightened risk of water-related damage that tags along. This spring, Red River Mutual wants you to be prepared. We're sharing some of our Loss Prevention Tips to help you stay high and dry and avoid making a water-related claim this season.
Preventing Water Damage
Often, water damage is avoidable, or you can lessen its effects by taking some precautionary measures. Try practicing the following to stop water damage before it starts.
Give Your Property Regular Inspections
Make a habit of checking to make sure things like your floor drains and eaves troughs are clear, your sump pump is ready to work, and your water heater and household appliances are leak-free. You can also make a monthly and weekly checklist to avoid unwanted leaks and puddles.
Maintain Your Property
Replace or repair items that malfunction as quickly as possible. It could save you facing a flood with a leaky sump pump or heavy rains with a leaky roof. The cost might be daunting, but minor repairs now could save you more significant repairs (and higher prices) later.
Take Extra Precaution
Make sure everything on your property can withstand unexpected rain or flooding. Small changes like adding backflow valves to avoid sewer backup and downspout extensions that drain water at least six feet away from your foundation can stand between your property and disaster.
If you want to learn more about simple preventative measures you can take to protect your property, check out these Loss Prevention Tips. Preventing Water Damage and Preventing Basement Flooding.
After Water Damage
Sometimes water damage is unavoidable, but we're here for you with tips to help with the cleanup and help lessen the chances of it happening again.
Mold
Mold loves a good flood or leak and can stick around long after your water-related problems are over. It can also cause serious health issues. It's important to take proper measures to identify any mold sources and thoroughly clean and repair your property after water damage. Make sure your home is mold-free now and in the future.
Your Health
Consider your health when cleaning your home after water damage. There are risks associated with contaminated water and mold. Floodwaters can contain viruses, bacteria and parasites, and any wet material can become a home for mold. Be thorough and wear proper personal protective gear when cleaning.
Also, ensure water, electricity and gas utilities are turned off for a significant flood and that all nearby appliances are off for more minor leaks.
Clean Up
Remove water as soon as possible using a wet vacuum or pumping method. Remove damaged carpeting, furniture, drywall, appliances and personal items to a dry area with good ventilation – toss anything that can't be dried. Clean and dry everything, and include a round of disinfectant for good measure.
Drying and Ventilation
Dry out your home. How intensive this will depend on the scope of the water damage. For small leaks, a house fan and an open window will work. For major leaks or floods, use heavy-duty fans, humidifiers and get as much airflow in the house as possible.
For more tips on cleanup after water damage, check out our Loss Prevention Tips: Cleaning Up Your Flooded Basementand Building-Related Mold.
Advice and information contained in this publication is presented for general educational purposes and to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be legal or expert advice, and should not be used in place of consultation with appropriate professionals. Red River Mutual disclaims all responsibility for any liability, loss, injury or risk which is incurred as a direct or indirect result of the use of any of the material in this publication.
