Summer’s intense weather and busy outdoor gatherings present unique insurance risks, including backyard grill fires that may spread and leaky air conditioners that could freeze up from overuse.

Although you may be tempted to take a deep breath and welcome autumn’s arrival, continue practicing some healthy vigilance as well. After all, fall brings its own unique perils, leaving insurance claim adjusters with their hands full with specific seasonal filings from their policyholders. Look out for the following common offenders to help keep your home, vehicle, and loved ones safe.

Home theft

This crimes can not only result in property losses but also feel like a serious violation of your privacy and safety. To reduce your risk of being targeted, engage in some proven safety measures: always lock your doors, garage, and windows, even while at home, and upgrade your house with as much security tech as you can reasonably afford. Smart locks, cameras, and sensor lights can all help deter criminals from coming after your home goods.

Animal collisions

Fall may bring some friendly sights into unwelcome proximity, including deer and moose; these creatures are more likely to wander into roadways during mating season, generally October through December. Farmers Insurance reports that drivers in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Texas, North Carolina, and Ohio file the greatest number of claims in this category. Such collisions can actually be as dangerous as crashing into another vehicle, but swerving or skidding recklessly to prevent impact can also lead to accidents.

To minimize this problem, try to avoid traveling during dawn and dusk hours, when critters like foxes and raccoons may be more active. Stay focused on the road as you drive so you can immediately respond to sudden crossings, and if you spot an animal, Geico recommends that you “brake firmly and calmly and stay in your lane.” A long honk of the horn can spook it out of the road, but keep an eye out for other members of the herd.

Weather woes

Depending on your region, you may have difficulties with fall leaves and first frost (a sudden icy freeze), both of which can pose safety risks for your home and vehicle. The US Department of Transportation reports that 24 percent of weather-related car accidents occur on snowy, slushy, or icy roads. And, surprisingly, wet leaves on roadways can be as slippery as ice under your tires. If you notice a frosty gleam or matted leaves on your driveway one morning, remember these safe-driving tips:

• Accelerate slowly, and press the gas and brake pedals gently to factor in reduced traction.
• Resist the urge to tailgate, and increase your following distance to six seconds.
• Don’t use the cruise control setting on risky roads.
• Avoid driving during icy weather or on roads littered with wet leaves when possible.

Fall weather can play some unwelcome tricks on your home as well. Ice may cause pipes to burst, while fallen leaves can clog gutters and lead to drainage issues. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing caused nearly a quarter of homeowners insurance losses in 2021 (the latest data available), so, to mitigate your risk, schedule a comprehensive plumbing inspection before the first frost arrives and be sure to keep your gutters clean. To get a jump on ice, check the Old Farmer’s Almanac website to find approximate freezing dates for your region.

Fearsome fires

Fire and smoke are among Mother Nature’s favorite feats of destruction, and fall presents some unique risks beyond usual, yearlong hazards like stovetop mishaps. As the weather starts to cool, you may find yourself spending more time indoors and using more heat sources like furnaces, fireplaces, or candles. To prevent fires, store flammables such as paper or blankets away from heat, keep an eye on cooking appliances and candles when they’re in use, and stock fire extinguishers in high-risk areas like the kitchen and bedrooms. It’s also crucial to develop a home fire-safety plan—the National Fire Prevention Association has a comprehensive guide on its website that every home should follow to the letter.

While this list isn’t exhaustive, it compiles some of the season’s worst offenders. Certain fall hazards vary by region—for example, homeowners in the Southwest may have fewer freeze fears, but drier conditions may increase their risk of fires. To stay clued in to local fall hazards, review resources such as your insurer’s newsletter or request guidance based on your zip code from an insurance agent or broker. Learning about regional conditions can help you prevent potentially costly issues and enjoy a safer, claim-free season.