Ah Canadian winters. A time to get cozy, slow down and reflect (when you’re not shoveling snow or slipping on icy side walks!). It’s also the time of year when we must deal with unique household hazards that could impact your home insurance policy.
Let’s go over the most common winter hazards in Ontario homes and practical ways to minimize the risk of each.
1. Ice and Snow Buildup (Driveways, Walkways, Steps)
Hazard: Slips and falls are a major cause of injury in winter.
Risk Reduction:
- Regularly shovel or snow-blow walkways and driveways.
- Use salt, sand, or eco-friendly de-icer to reduce ice buildup.
- Install handrails on outdoor steps.
- Consider heated mats or cables for high-traffic areas.
RELATED ARTICLE: How to safely shovel snow.
2. Heating System Malfunctions
Hazard: Faulty furnaces, space heaters, or fireplaces can cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Risk Reduction:
- Have your furnace, chimney, and vents inspected and cleaned annually by a certified technician.
- Keep flammable materials (like curtains or furniture) at least 3 feet away from heat sources.
- Use space heaters with automatic shut-offs and never plug them into extension cords.
- Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors on every level of the home, and test them monthly.
RELATED ARTICLE: Furnace safety and maintenance.
3. Frozen or Burst Pipes
Hazard: Frozen water lines can burst, causing flooding and costly damage.
Risk Reduction:
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas (garage, basement, crawl spaces).
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold.
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.
RELATED ARTICLE: Burst pipes and home insurance.
4. Poor Indoor Air Quality & Dryness
Hazard: Dry air and reduced ventilation can lead to respiratory issues, static electricity, and cracked wood surfaces.
Risk Reduction:
- Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity around 35–45%.
- Replace furnace filters every 1–3 months.
- Ensure fresh air circulation by cracking windows occasionally or using a heat recovery ventilator (HRV).
5. Power Outages
Hazard: Loss of heat and lighting can lead to freezing conditions indoors, spoiled food, or unsafe use of alternative heating.
Risk Reduction:
- Keep a winter emergency kit (flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, water).
- Use battery-powered lanterns instead of candles.
- If using a generator, operate it outside only — never in enclosed spaces.
- Keep cell phones and power banks charged during storms.
RELATED ARTICLE: Backup power generators and Ontario home insurance.
6. Ice Dams on Roofs
Hazard: Ice buildup at the roof edge can cause leaks and structural damage.
Risk Reduction:
- Keep attic well-insulated and ventilated to prevent uneven roof temperatures.
- Remove snow from the roof with a roof rake before it compacts.
- Seal air leaks from the house into the attic.
7. Condensation and Mold Growth
Hazard: Moisture buildup on windows and walls can cause mold, damaging materials and affecting health.
Risk Reduction:
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Run a dehumidifier in damp areas.
- Ensure proper ventilation and avoid drying clothes indoors.
8. Blocked Vents and Exhausts
Hazard: Snow and ice can block furnace, dryer, or gas appliance vents, leading to carbon monoxide buildup.
Risk Reduction:
- Regularly check and clear exterior vents after snowfalls.
- Install vent hoods to prevent ice formation.
9. Fire Risk from Candles and Decorations
Hazard: Winter holidays bring increased use of candles, lights, and electrical decorations.
Risk Reduction:
- Never leave candles unattended; use flameless LED candles.
- Check cords and lights for frays or damage.
- Turn off lights when leaving or going to bed.
10. Carbon Monoxide and Radon Exposure
Hazard: Homes are sealed tighter in winter, which can trap harmful gases indoors.
Risk Reduction:
- Test for radon at least once every few years.
- Inspect fuel-burning appliances regularly.
- Keep CO detectors functional and located near sleeping areas.
Erie Mutual Insurance proudly serves the commercial insurance, farm insurance, home insurance and auto insurance needs of members throughout Southern Ontario including Haldimand, Niagara and Hamilton.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have about this or any other topic related to your insurance.
