Ways of looking after Dad this Father's Day

(NC) The popular image of Father’s Day in Canada doesn’t usually stray from ties, tools and barbecues. While those all make many dads happy, another way to show your father your love is by flipping the script and taking care of him. Here are some ways you can show up for Dad this Father’s Day:

Help protect him from fraud.

Many scams specifically target older Canadians. That’s where playing tech support for your parents can actually make a difference to their safety. Posing as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is a popular tactic of fraudsters because tax forms contain valuable private information. This Father's Day, position yourself as your dad's go-to resource: let him know he can check with you if he’s unsure about a CRA message or if a link seems suspicious. But he can also get protection such as Telus Online Security. It’s a first line of defence against phishing and identity theft, with 24/7 access to support and identity theft specialists if he ever needs them. That can help give you both peace of mind.

telus.com/onlinesecurity

Help protect Dad’s car from theft.

Unfortunately, auto theft is still a growing concern here in Canada. There are steps that Dad can take, like keeping his car fob away from the front door, that can lower the risk. Here are some things you can do to his vehicle to keep it safer, from insurance provider Co-operators:

• Consider VIN etching. Etching your dad’s vehicle identification number (VIN) onto windows and key components makes the vehicle and its parts harder to resell.
• Install motion detection lights. These can help discourage theft, and can also help Dad get around at night.
• Layer the protection. Combining anti-theft measures, such as a steering-wheel lock, alarm, tracking device or immobilizer, can all make the car less appealing to thieves.

cooperators.ca.

Make sure Dad’s protected against flooding.

According to Public Safety Canada, flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in Canada. Here are some ways you can help prevent water damage form the prevention team at Intact Insurance:

• Check the drainage outside. The ground should slope away from your dad’s home, and any downspouts should empty at least six feet from the foundation.
• Clean out his eavestroughs, and if it’s safe, any nearby storm drains.
• Install flood alarms in Dad’s basement, near plumbing pipes or near appliances.
• Make sure any valuables, or hazards like oil containers, are stored at least 30 centimetres above the floor.

keepitintact.ca

Give Dad’s place a seasonal reset.

There are lots of little projects around the house that can pile up until the whole thing feels unmanageable. But you can help by getting the tasks listed and organized, as well as providing a helping hand. According to insurance provider Belairdirect, here are some impactful places to get started:

• Paint or stain trim, fences and decks if they look worn.
• Make sure Dad’s air conditioner works properly, and clean or replace the filter if needed.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change the batteries.
• Check fire extinguishers to make sure they work and are easy to reach.

belairdirect.com

Stay safe during outdoor DIY. (Reserved for publication in Ontario only)

Working on an outdoor or landscaping project together is a bonding experience and something you’ll both be proud of every time you see it. Before you start, check the property for any overhead powerlines. According to the Electrical Safety Authority, powerline fatalities are on the rise, so it’s important to pause and look up. As you work, always carry high tools or ladders horizontally and stay at least three metres away from any overhead powerlines. If you find a downed powerline, always assume it’s live. Stay 10 metres away and never try to move it yourself; call 9-1-1 and your local utility right away.

esasafe.com/stoplooklive.

The secret to these ways of caring for Dad is that they involve doing something together—for him, that will be the real gift: time meaningfully spent with you. Happy Father’s Day!