ALLIANZ RETAIL ISSUES WINTER FREEZE ADVICE TO BROKERS

Minus temperatures and hazardous conditions can make everyday life a challenge. Heavy snowfall and treacherously icy roads could leave motorists at increased risk of getting caught in unpredictable or dangerous circumstances whilst travelling. In addition, freezing temperatures could mean households are faced with damage caused by a frozen water pipe bursting in their home.

To help reduce these risks, Allianz Retail has issued brokers with a series of factsheets, which include a range of precautionary measures and advice for householders and motorists during severe winter weather conditions.

Top tips for motorists include:

·  Be prepared for hazardous conditions by ensuring your vehicle is equipped with all the necessary essentials. Motorists should carry a torch with spare batteries, a first aid kit, warm clothing and blankets, insurance and broker documents, bottled water and non-perishable foods, jump leads, a snow shovel and a complete set of replacement light bulbs.

·  Gentle manoeuvres are key, particularly when braking.  Always try to pull away in second gear, and select a higher gear such as third or fourth for travelling downhill.

·  In the event of skidding; depress the clutch, steer into the skid and avoid the temptation to brake forcefully

·  Inform someone of where you are going and when you are likely to return. Keep up-to-date with weather and traffic reports and always put your own safety first.

Top tips for householders include:

·  Leave your central heating on low at around 15°C to prevent water from freezing

·  Ensure water tanks in lofts are insulated, but avoid insulating under the tank as heat from the house will help prevent it from freezing

·  During periods of severe winter weather, keep a close eye out for frozen pipes. Telltale signs include no water coming from the faucet, frost or ice on the outside of the pipe and bulging of the pipe.

·  In the unfortunate event of a burst pipe, householders should turn off the stopcock and drain the system by opening taps in baths and sinks. Professional advice should be sought in accordance with broker and insurer guidelines.

Caroline Poppleton, Allianz Retail, comments:

“Brokers can play a crucial part during these harsh winter conditions, by reminding customers of the importance of taking the necessary precautions to protect not only their homes and vehicles, but also their safety.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The full motor and home factsheets are attached.

2. Allianz Insurance is one of the largest general insurers in the UK and part of the Allianz SE Group, one of the leading integrated financial services providers worldwide and the largest property and casualty insurer in the world.   With approximately 142,000 employees worldwide, the Allianz Group serves approximately 78 million customers in more than 70 countries.

The mission of Allianz Insurance is to be the outstanding competitor in our chosen markets by delivering products and services that our clients recommend, being a great company to work for and achieving the best combination of profit and growth.