As we begin the May long weekend, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations (FOCA) are providing 10 safety tips for Ontario cottage-goers.
“Many people put a lot of time and effort into making their cottages cozy and fun for the whole family,” says Ralph Palumbo, IBC’s Ontario Vice-President. “It’s also important to make safety a priority at your cottage.”
Around 250,000 families have cottages across Ontario, and the May long weekend is traditionally when many hit the road to open up for the season — sometimes after extended periods of absence.
Here are the top 10 safety tips as you prepare to head up to the cottage, and after you get there.
- Check your car’s lights, signals, tire pressure and fluids before the trip to the cottage.
- Check your first-aid kit and replace any missing supplies.
- Check and maintain cottage smoke detectors and CO detectors.
- Check the condition of boat(s), including fuel lines and tanks. Check that all required safety equipment is on board and in good repair.
- Remove dry leaves and debris from the cottage roof and/or eavestroughs to reduce fire risk.
- Prepare for extreme weather events — create a family emergency preparedness plan for the cottage.
- Assemble a disaster safety kit for your cottage and car.
- Talk to your neighbours — plan ahead for emergencies by identifying vulnerable people and potential community volunteers.
- Talk to your insurance representative to review your cottage, car, and boat coverage.
- Pass along these tips to friends, family and neighbours.
“Start off the cottage season right by following these tips,” says Terry Rees, Executive Director of FOCA. “And carry on with the habit of checking them throughout the year, to help ensure we all have a safe and enjoyable cottage experience.”
