01/23/2026
After more than four decades in the insurance industry, I’ve seen firsthand how freezing weather causes the most damage when water is involved. Frozen pipes and resulting water loss are often the costliest - and most preventable - outcomes of extreme cold.
The best way to beat winter weather is to be prepared:
• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers, or wrap with a towel and plastic
• Let indoor faucets drip, especially those on exterior walls (water is cheaper than a deductible)
• Keep the heat set at 68° or higher, even if you’re away, and open cabinet doors under sinks
• Fully charge phones and keep backup battery packs ready in case of power outages
• Use space heaters cautiously - UL-rated only, at least 3 feet from walls or furniture, and never near children
• Never use an oven or cooktop to heat your home
• If travel is unavoidable, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
If you’re prepared, you can get through most winter weather events with little or no damage.
And remember, this cold weather will pass!
