IBAO cautions property owners of spring melt

The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) are reminding consumers to take the necessary precautions to protect their homes and belongings from water damage during the spring melt.The combination of the melting snow and the influx of precipitation over the past days has caused water levels to reach unprecedented highs, an IBAO release says. The change in climate is scheduled to continue in the upcoming weeks, and it is important that individuals are aware of the potential risks of water damage and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their homes.IBAO suggested the following steps to prepare properties for potential water damage:• prepare your home for a possible extended vacancy and collect necessary personal items required if evacuated;• remove any valuable items from the basement and lower level areas;• during a flood, shut off electricity, furnaces and the outside gas valves; and• create an emergency kit and keep it in an easy to reach place.