(NC) Does your holiday decoration display light up the whole neighbourhood? Twinkling lights and holiday adornments can be just the festive touch to ward off the winter blues. But these same items can also be a potential fire hazard. Follow these tips from Co-operators to ensure you can enjoy the holidays safely.

Before installing

• Take the time to untangle and inspect the condition of your light strings and extension cords for both indoor and outdoor lights, and replace any that are old, frayed or showing any signs of damage.
• Opt for newer CSA-certified, energy-saving lights and consider...

(NC) As winter approaches, our homes become cozy retreats. However, the use of various sources of heating can increase the risk of fires. Here are some practical tips to help keep your home safe:

• Check smoke detectors: Smoke detectors should be tested monthly and batteries replaced twice a year. You may consider upgrading to a 10-year lithium battery.
• Keep flammables away from heat: Maintain at least one metre (three feet) of clearance around heat sources.
• Use space heaters safely: Plug them directly into a wall outlet (i.e. do not use extension cords) and turn them off when not in use.

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(NC) As the days get colder, most of us will spend more time indoors. When gathering with your friends and family, you might be wondering about the quality of your indoor air, and how to protect your and your loved ones’ health at home.

While it is important to be aware that poor indoor air quality can affect your health, there are some easy ways you can improve your home’s air quality right now.

Here are seven tips to remove or reduce the sources of air pollutants in your indoor air and prevent health issues related to your home’s air quality.

1. Install certified carbon monoxide alarms...

(NC) Every year in October, we recognize Fire Prevention Month. It’s well timed as this is when we start to use things like space heaters, fireplaces and candles, all of which come with a certain degree of risk. Here are four ways to keep your family, home and pets safe throughout the year.

Keep your pets safe
Nothing creates ambiance or a festive feel like the flicker of candles. But they can become a fire risk if a wagging tail or batting paw accidentally knocks them over. Never leave lit candles unattended. Consider switching to flameless candles for a safer, yet still calming ambiance.

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(NC) Halloween isn’t just for kids. Pets are joining the festivities too, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while you celebrate. To make Halloween a real treat for pets and ensure they stay safe and happy, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Entertaining at home
Is your dog easily spooked? Even the friendliest pet may be alarmed by a ghost or witch at the front door. One of the best ways to help eliminate unwanted surprises is by establishing a safe, pets-only room in the house. This may also put trick-or-treaters who are uncomfortable around pets at ease.

“Before having pets join...

(NC) As we begin to embrace the cozy season ahead, it’s important to remember that winter brings harsh weather conditions that may threaten our homes. Taking proactive measures against winter weather can help reduce energy usage and prevent costly repairs.?

With the days growing shorter and the air turning crisp, homeowners can start preparing for the heating season with a few simple tips:?

• Upgrade your thermostat. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat, which offers a variety of energy saving and comfort features such as the ability to...

(NC) There are plenty of fun, eco-friendly activities that the whole family can enjoy this fall. Here are some great – and green – ideas.  

1. Explore the great outdoors 

   Fall is great weather for hiking, and the changing leaves make a great background for family portraits. To keep the kids engaged, play a fun game like “I spy – nature edition” or see what they can find on a scavenger hunt.

   With 37 national parks and 10 national park reserves in Canada, as well as many provincial parks and local nature reserves to explore, nature isn’t far from your doorstep. Don’t forget to leave only...

(NC) The words “extreme weather” can take on different meanings across Canada, but whether it’s intense winds or damaging hail, the reality is extreme weather is on the rise. From torrential rain to wildfires, ensuring your home is properly protected is more important than ever.

Insurance premiums are generally based on the likelihood of making a claim (claims frequency) and its potential cost (claims severity). Factors like your home’s location, age of the building and type of residence (detached, townhouse, etc.) also play a role.

Since extreme weather can increase the risk of...

(NC) Getting ready for the new school year can be quite a task. It involves more than just buying new clothes; it’s about setting the stage for a successful year through planning and organization, ensuring health and safety, and establishing routines.

To help you transition smoothly from vacation mode to a back-to-school mindset, here are the top four things to consider as you prepare for the upcoming academic year.

1. Stock up on school supplies
   Start shopping for school essentials such as stationery, lunch boxes and school bags as early as possible. This will give you time to snag those...

(NC) Organizing a messy or cluttered closet makes it easier to find your clothes, creates space and makes the whole room look neat and tidy. Here are some closet storage ideas, tips and tricks to help maximize space in your closet.

Use shelves to optimize space and add decor
“Adding wooden or wire shelving to your closet is a great way to increase storage for items like shoes and other non-hangable items,” says Katie Linnen, storage and organization merchant for The Home Depot Canada. “Wire shelves are perfect for letting things like linens breathe, while wooden shelving is sturdier for...