Allstate Insurance: Lauren Michaud

02/26/2026

Did you know that outdoor safety is part of your responsibility as a homeowner?

In winter, stairs, driveways and sidewalks can become slippery and increase the risk of falls, for you and for others around you.

Here are a few simple habits to help keep your outdoor spaces safe:
❄️ Shovel and salt regularly
❄️ Wear slip-resistant boots
❄️ Make sure outdoor areas are well lit
❄️ Install handrails when needed

Learn more about outdoor safety and civil protection this winter.

02/24/2026

🏠 Protect your basement before spring!
Your basement is one of the most vulnerable areas during floods. Discover simple, practical tips to reduce water damage risks and keep the space functional.

53% of Canadians don’t plan any preventive measures against flooding. Don’t be part of this group! Read all the tips here ➡️ https://blog.allstate.ca/rethink-basement-tips-protect-against-flooding-damage/?utm_source=LocalOrg&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=rethinkinghome1

02/23/2026

Hoping everyone is soon home safe and warm.

While your home - reach out! If you already have a policy with me snow days are great days to make sure everything is up to date.

If you don’t have a policy yet- what are you waiting for. I can run some numbers with just a few questions. No obligation just a check to see how we compare - I’ve seen some savings that would shock you. Enough for a new snow blower 😂

❄️ When the snow starts falling, it’s not just an individual challenge, it’s also a chance to team up, look out for our neighbours, and strengthen our community.

Helping a neighbour shovel, clearing a walkway, or checking in to make sure everyone’s safe, small actions can make a big difference.

Not everyone can get out to shovel, so lend a hand if you can.

Before the next storm hits, take a few minutes to prepare and help those around you do the same.

Before:
✅ Check smoke and CO detector batteries.
✅ Prepare an emergency plan and essentials kit.
✅Charge electronics and battery packs.
✅ Clean gutters and secure downspouts before heavy snow.
✅ Trim branches near your home to prevent damage.

During and after:
✅ Clear sidewalks and walking areas safely.
✅ Avoid pushing snow onto the road and follow local bylaws.
✅ Watch for ice dams on your roof and remove snow buildup when safe.

02/23/2026

Stay safe!

Storm impacts on municipal services | Monday, Feb. 23, 11:45 a.m.

Winter operations crews are on standby and will begin clearing streets, sidewalks and bike lanes when snow begins to accumulate later today and overnight.

Residents are reminded that the municipal overnight parking ban is being enforced (in both Zone 1 – Central and Zone 2 – Non-Central) from 1 to 6 a.m. on Feb. 12, to allow crews to properly clear snow. Visit halifax.ca/snow to find updates on snow clearing operations.

The following are storm updates on municipal services:

Municipal offices

All municipal offices, including in-person Planning & Development permit offices and Customer Service Centres, are closing at noon today, Feb. 23. If there are additional delays or closures on Feb. 24, the municipality will provide an update.

Employees who can work from home are being asked to do so.

All essential services, as well as 311, winter operations and Halifax Transit are maintaining operations.

Safety is the municipality’s top priority. Closing offices early will help snow clearing efforts and facilitate a safer commute for our employees and residents.
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Halifax Transit

There are currently no storm impacts to Halifax Transit bus service.

As well, there are currently no impacts to ferry service, beyond the ongoing 30-minute service disruption for the Alderney ferry.

Service disruptions will be announced, as needed, via .bsky.social on Bluesky and our website.
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Solid Waste

Curbside collection of solid waste for today, Feb. 23 has proceeded as scheduled.

The Otter Lake Waste Facility, Materials Recycling Facility and Organics Management Facility is open today, Feb. 23.

For the latest updates on any service disruptions, visit our website.
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Parks & Recreation

Most municipally owned and operated recreation facilities will be closing at noon today, Feb. 23.

If there are additional delays or closures on Feb. 24, the municipality will provide an update.

For the most up-to-date information, follow .bsky.social on Bluesky or call your local recreation centre.
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Halifax Public Libraries

All branches and departments of Halifax Public Libraries will be closing at noon today, Feb. 23. For the latest information on all Halifax Public Library locations and services visit the website.

Read the full PSA with links at: https://www.halifax.ca/home/news/storm-impacts-municipal-services-monday-feb-23-1145-am

02/18/2026

Do you own an electric vehicle? Winter driving comes with a few important considerations.

Here are 5 things you should know about electric vehicles in winter:

1️⃣ Range drops in cold weather
Studies show that at -7°C, an EV can lose 20–30% of its driving range.

2️⃣ Precondition your vehicle
Preheat your car while it’s still plugged in to help preserve range.

3️⃣ Use efficient heating
Use heated seats and steering wheel features instead of full cabin heat to save battery.

4️⃣ Check your tire pressure
Cold weather lowers tire pressure, increasing energy use and reducing efficiency.

5️⃣ Make sure your EV is properly insured for winter
Contact Allstate Insurance for more information.

Stay winter-ready and drive electric with confidence ❄️⚡

02/15/2026

Insurance isn’t the most romantic topic… but it’s a really important one.
Here are insurance details you should actually talk about with your partner:

✔️ What insurance each of you already has
✔️ What’s covered… and what isn’t
✔️ Who’s listed on policies (and who should be)
✔️ How deductibles and coverage limits work
✔️ What happens financially if one of you gets sick, injured or can’t work
✔️ What you’d want protected if life changes
✔️ How insurance fits into your shared budget
✔️ When you plan to review or update coverage together

Not exactly pillow talk, but definitely part of building something solid.

Open conversations = stronger partnerships.💙

02/06/2026

❄️💧Winter can put your pipes to the test! Here are 4 essential tips:

1️⃣ Insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor hoses
2️⃣ Watch the forecast during extreme cold
3️⃣ Thaw safely: use a hair dryer or warm towels, never open flames
4️⃣ If away from home, shut off the water and keep the heat on

01/30/2026

❄️ Winter is here… but your heating bill doesn’t have to rise with the cold.
Want to know the simple switches that can help you save big this season?

Here are 10 simple switches to stay cozy and keep your money where it belongs:

✔️ Change or clean your furnace filters every ~90 days.
✔️ Get a pro to service your heating system for peak efficiency.
✔️ Stop heat from escaping by sealing drafts or upgrading roof insulation.
✔️ Use thermal curtains at night and open them during the day to let in free solar warmth.
✔️ Keep heating vents clear of rugs/furniture.
✔️ Close doors to unused rooms to concentrate warmth where it matters.
✔️ Reverse your ceiling fan to push warm air down.
✔️ Lay down a rug for extra warmth underfoot.
✔️ Use a humidifier so the air feels warmer.
✔️ Upgrade to a smart thermostat and aim for ~20 °C for better efficiency.

01/21/2026

❄️ When the snow starts falling, it’s not just an individual challenge, it’s also a chance to team up, look out for our neighbours, and strengthen our community.

Helping a neighbour shovel, clearing a walkway, or checking in to make sure everyone’s safe, small actions can make a big difference.

Not everyone can get out to shovel, so lend a hand if you can.

Before the next storm hits, take a few minutes to prepare and help those around you do the same.

Before:
✅ Check smoke and CO detector batteries.
✅ Prepare an emergency plan and essentials kit.
✅Charge electronics and battery packs.
✅ Clean gutters and secure downspouts before heavy snow.
✅ Trim branches near your home to prevent damage.

During and after:
✅ Clear sidewalks and walking areas safely.
✅ Avoid pushing snow onto the road and follow local bylaws.
✅ Watch for ice dams on your roof and remove snow buildup when safe.

01/13/2026

Winter driving always comes with its share of lessons!
Take our short quiz to see if you’re truly a winter driving expert, and challenge a friend to find out if you’re both ready to stay safe on the road. 🚗

Because Allstate cares about keeping you, and others, safe out there. 💙

🔗 Take the quiz.
https://blog.allstate.ca/test-your-winter-driving-knowledge-quiz/?utm_source=LocalOrg&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=JanuaryEditorial

01/08/2026

Making winter easier for everyone starts with small actions:

❄️ Always park in authorized spaces and follow street signs so snowplows can do their job
❄️ Keep streets clear by placing garbage and recycling bins inside your driveway
❄️ Clear snow around your vehicle to prevent snow buildup and make passing easier
❄️ Be mindful of pedestrians and snow removal crews
❄️ Stay patient and courteous to help keep everyone safe

Share these tips and let’s work together to keep our streets safe and passable this winter!