Provided by: RS Risk Solutions

LIFE
Tips for living Sustainably.

Environmental sustainability is important to help combat climate change and preserve the environment, and UK citizens are becoming increasingly aware of its importance. For instance, 75% of UK consumers say reducing plastics is an essential sustainable action for them. Although the desire to reduce the use of plastics is encouraging, there are more environmentally conscious steps individuals like you can take to support the planet. Consider some of the following tips to live sustainably:

• Make your own cleaning products. Homemade cleaning products can help clean everyday home items such as countertops and showers without the use of toxic chemicals. Consider infusing vinegar with citrus peels for a simple surface cleaner (not suitable for marble or limestone) Alternatively, bicarbonate of soda can be used for a wide range of cleaning jobs.
• Avoid using disposable items. While disposable items are convenient for on the go use, the resources involved in their production and the waste generated when they’re discarded are bad for the environment. Where possible, swap disposable items with reusable items (eg use cloth napkins instead of paper ones and drink from reusable coffee cups).
• Reduce food waste. When food waste breaks down, it releases methane, a gas that is 80 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. Carefully check the contents of your fridge before shopping and stick to a distinct grocery list to avoid buying food that could go to waste.
• Recycle properly. Recycling helps reduce the amount of waste going into landfills, prevents pollution, and saves energy. Do your part by checking if the item you’re disposing of can be recycled and placing it in the proper container.
• Be conscious of water use. Prevent the depletion of important water resources by remaining mindful of water use. Specifically, consider installing water-saving features such as dual-flush toilets, taking shorter showers and skipping bottled water where possible.
For more information on living sustainably, contact us today.

Home
Tips for Home Maintenance in Autumn
As autumn approaches, the lower temperatures and shorter days may necessitate various maintenance tasks and upkeep for your home. Fortunately, the moderate weather conditions of this part of the year may also provide ample opportunity to work outdoors and prepare your property for the harsher winter months.
Get a head start on your home maintenance by considering the following steps:
• Check your roof. Inspect your roof for any cracks, leaks or other signs of damage. Hiring a qualified professional may be advisable.
• Inspect your boiler. Ahead of cold winter temperatures, you should ensure your boiler is in good working order. Consider having it serviced.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced once a year. Replacing batteries at the same time each year can be a helpful way to develop the annual routine in your home.
• Clear gutters. Remove leaves and other debris from your gutters and drainpipes to minimise flooding or freezing following precipitation.
• Clean your lawn. Before the colder months arrive, it can be beneficial to clean up your lawn, trim any trees or shrubs. An unmaintained lawn can cause potential damage risks to your home.
• Seal cracks. Inspect walls and areas around windows and doors to identify and repair any holes or cracks that may allow cold air into your home.
• Remove outdoor water sources. Drain any outdoor taps on your property and put away hoses to prevent remaining water from freezing during the winter
• Repair cracks in paving slabs. If you have a driveway or other paving slabs on your property, check for any cracks and fix them before winter. Otherwise, freezing water may expand them, leading to larger problems.
Contact us for additional home safety resources.

Motor
How to Drive Safely in Severe Weather
Autumn often brings unpredictable weather conditions, and it can be a wet and windy season in the UK. Although its advisable to simply avoid being on the road amid inclement conditions, there may be times when you have no choice.

To keep yourself as safe as possible while driving in dangerous weather, consider the following tips:
• Check the forecast, including predictions of conditions, during your return, before embarking on journeys.
• Make sure to use your headlights, wipers and de-mister when appropriate, such as during rain and thunderstorms.
• Be alert for spraying from other vehicles, as it can reduce your visibility.
• Drive on main roads where possible as fallen branches, debris and flooding are less likely.
• Clear your windscreen of frost or condensation before setting off so you have clear visibility while driving.
• Drive defensively, including reducing speeds and increasing your following distance.

For more safe driving safety tips, contact us today.