After a very mild Kings Birthday weekend, it sounds like we are about to see our first really cold weather of the winter.

This usually means some extra work for those of us who live in Central Otago.

Some tasks to think about, if you haven’t already prepared for winter.

At home:

1. Winterise your outdoor taps & irrigation system (cover or wrap taps & drain hoses where possible).
2. Check that your water mains tap moves freely and that everyone at home knows where this is. If you have a water leak, turn off the mains as quickly as possible before calling a plumber. Mop up what you can as quickly as possible, but do not try to dry things out by turning your heat pump up. Damage caused to your house or contents by water leaks is usually covered by your insurance policies, but you usually need to pay the plumber for repairs & an excess on your policy.
3. It's possibly too late to get up and ensure your gutters are clean, but doing so reduces the chances of blockages from heavy rain or snow. Also where possible, secure or remove shade sails, awnings & umbrellas.
4. Protect your outdoor furniture. This may include putting cushions away safely and ensuring that furniture is anchored against high winds (especially trampolines).
5. If you are using electric blankets, check these each time you change your sheets to ensure that there are no kinks, twists or hot spots. Vacuum dust from electric heaters whenever you get a chance and turn them off if anything smells odd.

Hopefully you have checked your smoke alarms already (at daylight saving), but if you haven’t its worthwhile giving them a test by pushing test button (gently use a broom if the alarm is out of your reach).

Car:

1. Tyre Maintenance: Wet and slippery roads can be hazardous. Check your tyre thread and pressure regularly to ensure optimal grip and safety. 
2. Battery Check: Cold weather can affect battery performance. Have your car battery checked to avoid being stranded in the cold. 
3. Emergency Kits: Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including items like blankets, a torch, a first-aid kit and basic tools.
4. Drive to the conditions, using your lights, especially when its foggy. The auto settings on headlights typically do not turn lights on when it is foggy.
5. Check your insurance - Check that your cover is up to date, and that you’ve got the right level of cover for you. If in doubt, talk to us! C & R Insurance - Your local broker and adviser.

Winter brings a unique set of challenges, but with proper preparation, you can feel secure and protected. By following these tips, you can navigate the season with confidence.