Even though Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia don’t see snow very often, short cold snaps can still cause major problems for homeowners — from frozen pipes to damaged plants and stressed pets. As temperatures dip again this week, now is the time to take a few simple steps to protect what matters most.
To help viewers prepare, River City Live recently spoke with Melissa Burt DeVriese, President, Secretary, and Director of Security First Insurance, who shared practical tips every Florida household should keep in mind when cold weather arrives.
The Three P’s of Cold Weather Protection
Security First Insurance encourages homeowners to remember the “Three P’s” during a freeze: Pets, Plants, and Pipes.
- Pets: Cold weather can be uncomfortable — and even dangerous — for pets. If temperatures dip, bring pets indoors whenever possible. For short outdoor trips, consider pet sweaters or jackets, especially for smaller animals or breeds not accustomed to cold temperatures.
- Plants: Florida plants are not built for freezing temperatures. When possible, bring potted plants indoors. For plants that must stay outside, cover them before temperatures drop. One helpful tip many homeowners overlook: water plants ahead of a freeze. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil, which can help protect roots from cold damage.
- Pipes: Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive winter-related home issues. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst, leading to costly water damage. To help prevent this: Keep your thermostat set to 55 degrees or higher, even overnight. Let a faucet drip slightly during freezing temperatures. Choose the faucet farthest from where water enters your home. In larger or older homes, consider dripping faucets on multiple sides of the house.
A slow drip is all it takes to keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing.
Don’t Forget Fire Safety
Winter is also the most common season for house fires. As heaters and fireplaces get more use, it’s critical to make sure smoke detectors are working properly. Test alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed. If you use space heaters, follow manufacturer instructions carefully and keep them away from flammable items like blankets or clothing.
Protect Your Home with the Right Coverage
Taking preventive steps can go a long way, but having proper insurance coverage is just as important. Reviewing your homeowners’ insurance policy before extreme weather hits can help ensure your home and belongings are protected if the unexpected happens.
For more cold weather tips and homeowner resources, visit securityfirstflorida.com.
Security First Insurance, headquartered in Ormond Beach, Florida, is one of the state’s largest and most trusted homeowners insurance providers.
Since its founding in 2005, the company has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of Floridians, combining over a century of insurance expertise with a team of nearly 400 professionals.
Under the leadership of President Melissa Burt DeVriese and CEO Locke Burt, Security First is known for its rapid disaster response, innovative repair solutions, and commitment to protecting Florida families—today and for generations to come.
For more information, go to: SecurityFirstFlorida.com