Spring has sprung and summer is not far around the corner, which means thousands of Ontarians will pack their cars and head to their personal slice of paradise. As cottages around the province are opened up for the season, we want to bring a few things to mind:
1. Woodstoves & Fireplaces
Opening weekend can be chilly! Before you fire up your wood stove or fireplace, make sure to follow these important steps
- Inspect your chimney and flue to ensure that all coverings have been removed and no blockages have built up over the winter
- Ensure your fire extinguisher is fully charged and nearby, and that your tools for handling fires, such as pokers and fireproof gloves, are close at hand
- Check all visible parts of your stovepipe and inspect for any signs of shifting, rust, or other deterioration
- Light a very small, controlled fire and test the flow of smoke through the chimney
Over time, burning wood causes a build-up of creosote in your chimney or stove pipe. Creosote is a highly combustible substance that, if left untended, can lead to a chimney fire. Be sure to have your chimney cleaned once every year or two to ensure the ongoing safety of your heating apparatus.
2. Eavestroughs and Water Flow
- Build-up of debris on your roof over the winter can lead to packed eavestroughs and other areas that assist with moving the flow of water away from your home.
- Be sure to clear out the eaves and remove any obstacles that may prevent water from safely flowing away from your home
3. Trees and Brush
- Any fallen branches and brush that has accumulated near the cottage should be cleared away
- If any trees are looking especially suspect for potential falls in the future, it may be time to have an arborist in to inspect the tree and advise on the best way to bring it down safely
4. Septic System
- Septic systems are less likely to cause back-up into your cottage than a municipal system. Regardless, it is important to have your septic system pumped and checked out every 2-3 years. Not only does this minimize potential future loss, but is also an important element of the management of your waterfront property and the impact of your cottage on the natural balance of the environment.
5. The Drive
- Opening weekends usually mean long hours of driving with cars full of people and cargo. Always exercise your best and safest driving practices. Be sure not to overload your car and to minimize distractions in the vehicle. If you are hooking up a trailer, be sure that the trailer lights are in full working order and that you are well aware of blind spots. As always, no texting and driving!