Travelers Makes Available Spring Maintenance Tips for the Home

A home is one of life’s most important investments. Keeping it properly maintained can help reduce the risk of a loss and help ensure the safety and well being of friends and family.

Just in time for spring, Travelers Property Casualty Corp. is offering maintenance tips to prepare one’s home for warmer weather and to keep it safe year-round:

*Inspect the smoke detectors. Make sure that there is one on each floor of the home. Test them and change the batteries at least every six months, when changing the clocks.

*Check the light bulbs in all the fixtures to be sure that they are the correct wattage as recommended by the manufacturer.
Replace lamps that use high-producing bulbs (such as halogen) with those that use fluorescent bulbs and operate at much cooler temperatures.

*Check the electrical outlets for potential fire hazards such as frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets, fuse boxes, extension cords or any other power service.
Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible that is filled and ready for operation.

*Have the air conditioning system inspected by a professional as recommended by the manufacturer.

*Check for damage to the roof, and clean gutters and downspouts to keep debris from accumulating.

*Check the water heater for leaks and corrosion, and keep surrounding area clear.

*Clean and/or replace the furnace filter.

*Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust, and pieces of material or cloth. Inspect washing machine hoses and replace hoses that show signs of wear or leakage with stronger reinforced hoses. Turn off the water when not in use to prevent water damage if a hose breaks.

*In the yard, remove all dead trees and keep healthy trees and bushes trimmed and away from utility wires. Do not attempt to remove tree limbs from power lines. Instead, call the power company to request assistance.

*Safely store oil and gas for lawn equipment and tools in a vented, secured area.

*Repair driveway and walkways that are cracked, broken or uneven to provide a level walking surface.

Travelers policyholders who experience a loss should immediately report their claim to Travelers at 1-800-CLAIM-33 (1-800-252-4633) for assistance.