TKE News

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - It's the most wonderful time of the year. Finals are coming to a close and you are escaping the worries of school to head home for the holidays. You are leaving, in most cases, for a month - away from the chapter house that you have called home for more than a semester now. You want to make sure when you return, it is exactly the way you left it - right? There are some things to do before you leave to ensure the chapter house, whether in a cold environment or not, is safe during the holidays. 

1. Water freeze
2. Fire
3. Vandalism and theft 

During a past Winter Break, more than $1.3 million was paid out on freeze related claims. A majority of these losses were chapter houses located in warmer climates. An unexpected cold spell hit the region and almost no facility took preventive measures. Weather forecasters prove everyday the unpredictable nature of climate conditions and temperatures. Regardless of geographical location every chapter should follow simple steps, even in states where freeze is not a concern. Other perils still exist for those chapter houses like vandalism, fire, and other water damage.

To keep your house safe you should check off these items. 

• Complete routine maintenance on furnace or boiler.
• Ensure furnace is on and set to at least 60 degrees.
• Ensure all hoses are removed from the exterior water spigots of the house.
• Drain water lines in sprinkler system where appropriate.
• In extreme cold weather, open the indoor faucets slightly to allow water to trickle, as moving water does not freeze as easily.
• Leave the doors to cabinets open that contain water lines allowing heat to enter the area.
• Inspect all rooms before the last person leaves.
• Ensure all unnecessary appliances and electronics are unplugged.
• Assign someone to stop-by the house over the break (a caretaker) to ensure the house is safe.
• Thoroughly clean the chapter house prior to leaving for break.
• Remove all perishable food.
• Lock and inspect all windows.
• Lock and inspect all doors.
• Clean gutters to ensure proper water flow should a storm hit while away.
• Clean exterior of chapter house, clearing all debris that could lead to the start of a fire.
• Check security and safety lighting.
• Service and clean fireplace (if applicable). 

This checklist should help keep your chapter house safe during the break. Should you have any questions or concerns about the list, please contact Willis HRH (TKE’s Insurance Provider) for more information.

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