In many parts of the country, winter weather is in full force. Cold weather brings more than thick coats and warm fireplaces, though. It also presents concerns of winter weather-related property losses.

As a homeowner, there are ways to protect your property and mitigate potential losses. To help prevent losses from frozen burst pipes, ice dams and roof leaks, you can take steps to help protect your home against the cold and snow.

• Install a water leak detection system or alarm.
  Water is a leading cause of property damage. Water damage losses can be large, especially if the pipe breaks in an unoccupied residence. Depending on the type of system purchased, a leak detection system will alert you if the water is running for unusual amount of time and shut the main water line off.
  
  Contact your insurance agent if you install this type of system, because it may make you eligible for a policy credit.

• Add a low temperature monitor to your existing alarm system.
  This alarm component is designed to alert the alarm company if the temperature in your home falls below a designated temperature. A low temperature device will monitor the temperature in the residence and help reduce the chance of frozen pipes.
  
  This system, like a water leak system, may make you eligible for a policy credit — contact your agent if you decide to install one.

• Maintain the temperature at or above 65 degrees during periods of extreme cold.
  When it is extremely cold, setting the heat above 65 degrees may not be enough to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting. It is recommended to maintain a temperature of at least 65 degrees in extreme cold.

• Understand and prevent ice dams.
  Ice dams form when warm air from your attic causes snow to melt and run down the roof. The water refreezes at the eaves and gutters, creating an ice buildup that damages the gutters and roof leading to interior water damage. The best way to prevent this from happening is to have a licensed contractor assess your attic insulation and make any needed improvements.

Additional prevention can be done by clearing the snow from the roof in a timely manner or installing heating elements at the roof line or in the gutters to stop the water from refreezing at the edge.

These are some of the ways that you can protect your home from the perils of winter. Should you make changes or have questions, reach out to your personal insurance agent to discuss your options and keep your home safe from weather damage for years to come.