Wiegers Financial & Benefits is one of the largest private financial planning and employee benefits consulting firms in Saskatchewan. Its Saskatoon Financial Planning Division provides business owners, households, retirees, and students with expert investment and insurance planning services to help them reach their long-term financial goals. They also have a Benefits and Personal Insurance division.  

In this latest Wiegers Group Benefits tip, they explain flex benefits for employee wellness. Wiegers Financial & Benefits are Trusted Saskatoon Insurance and Group Benefits experts.

Do You Have  A Strong Or Weak Workplace Culture? 

The 2020 edition of the Sanofi Canada Healthcare Survey – arguably the most reputable and referenced healthcare survey in the country – makes clear that a positive workplace wellness culture is key to a business’s success. But why?

Simply put, a strong wellness culture plays an important role in employee job satisfaction, which in turn drives productivity and both healthier results and healthier bottom lines for everyone from company stakeholders to the employees and their families. But it starts even earlier than that. A strong wellness culture is important also in the attraction and retention of strong talent. More than 85% of employees surveyed agree that a workplace environment that encourages health and wellness is an important factor when deciding whether to accept a job offer or continue with a current employer.

The great news is that it appears that employers are listening. Over the next three years, 74% of employers plan to dedicate funding and/or staff resources outside of the health benefit plan to at least one out of five possible health and wellness areas. Among them, they will most likely do so in the area of emotional/mental health (58%), followed by the prevention of illness and/or management of chronic conditions (49%), physical fitness (45%), social well-being (44%) and financial well-being (40%).

The development and maintenance of a wellness culture needn’t be complicated or costly, though. Providing employees with safety supports, and actively encouraging positive relationships among co-workers and with immediate supervisors, is a great start. The options are endless from there:

• Flexible work arrangements
• Flexible health benefits
• Well-defined Human Resource policies
• Mental well-being support
• Workplace wellness programs
• Social activities
• Healthy snacks… and the list goes on

The degree to which these types of initiatives positively impact a workplace wellness culture, though, depends significantly on the degree to which senior leadership supports and engages in them. This is something that my team and I at Wiegers Financial & Benefits can attest to personally and with genuine enthusiasm.

We have been actively promoting and supporting a wellness culture in our workplace for almost 20 years, long before it became popular to do so. Our initiatives have evolved a lot over the years but currently include a very active volunteer social committee that regularly – frequently, actually – does extraordinary things to engage our team socially and to inject fun into our workdays, and celebrate holidays and other special days. Even during the pandemic, our social committee continues to deliver in meaningful, impactful, and outside-of-the-box ways. Our management team actively supports this kind of initiative for the comradery it fosters, its morale-boosting impacts, and the message it sends our team that their happiness matters.

Really, though, all aspects of our team’s mental health matter. We have a culture of open dialogue when it comes to mental health struggles and triumphs, and we support and encourage our team members to share their own stories. We also continue to provide our team members with an Employee and Family Assistance Program, which includes coverage for counselling and many other mental health supports, and we increased the benefit amount for psychologist coverage on our benefits plan.

We take steps to help our team members’ physical health too. We provide each employee with an annual Health Spending Account and Wellness Spending Account to provide coverage for health and wellness expenses not already covered under our group benefits plan. We also provide a Second Opinion benefit, which enables our employees to seek second medical opinions from some of the best medical doctors in the world. We provide our employees with a telemedicine benefit so they can quickly and easily access a medical expert by phone or video chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the comfort of home. And of course, there’s our Wiegers Wellness Partners Program. The Program, which is almost 20 years old now but is undergoing a refresh and expansion, was originally designed to provide our group benefits clients and their employees with discounted pricing at participating local businesses in the wellness industry. The Program was since made available to our individual clients in our Wealth Management Division too but it’s something our own employees and their families make good use of as well. 

All of this pays off. A lot, and for everyone involved. We recently surveyed our team for anonymous feedback about our wellness culture and learned – or rather confirmed – that the vast majority of our team members are really happy with it. We also requested and are now considering thoughtful feedback about what we might do differently; we’re always looking for new ideas! But beyond the survey results are what we’re seeing elsewhere in our business. Employee turnover is extremely low, with several employees working with us for upwards of 10, 15, and even 20 years. Client retention is extremely high – something we’d have a difficult time achieving if we had a revolving door of employees not well-trained and not highly-experienced in the financial services industry. And despite a lot of business and sometimes high-pressure demands, there’s laughter in our office – and lots of it. We all have days when going to work is not what we’d choose to do if we had the choice but the wellness culture at Wiegers Financial & Benefits makes even difficult days a bit brighter.

For employers who don’t yet have a strategy for creating a workplace wellness culture, it might seem an overwhelming thing to get started but it needn’t feel like that. Try one or two easy, low-cost options and see what they do. Once you get started, and you discover what matters to you and your team, I predict you’ll want to do more because the benefits to your employees, your business AND you will be clear and motivating. As is the case everywhere, wellness in the workplace is a winning solution for everyone.

Debra L. Wiegers, GBA, CLU, CH.F.C.
Benefits Advisor, Wiegers Financial and Insurance Planning Services Ltd.

At Western Millennium Collision, they focus on three things: quality, convenience, and service. Quality implies that they maintain state-of-the-art tools and equipment so that their highly experienced technicians have all the latest tools and technology to ensure that your vehicle receives the finest quality and extraordinary workmanship. Convenience is all about valuing your time and simplifying the process of having your car fixed from the moment you contact them. Their shop is large enough to accommodate any size of vehicle, so that you can drive into the estimator for a complete evaluation of the damages to determine how fast the repairs can be done and how much it will cost, in one easy step. Western Millennium Collision Is a Trusted Saskatoon Collision Repair & Auto Body Shop.

PREPARE YOUR VEHICLE FOR WINTER

CHECK YOUR VEHICLE'S BATTERY TO PREPARE FOR WINTER

To prepare for the cold winter months, one of the most important things to do is check your battery. A quick inspection and battery health test will ensure a dead battery will not leave you stranded in the cold. Your best defence against the cold weather is a fresh battery. If your battery is weak, be sure to replace it. 

If you do not drive your vehicle often, it is beneficial to attach your battery to a trickle charger or maintainer. Because your battery needs to work harder in the cold weather, it loses power over time if your vehicle is not frequently in use. Utilizing a trickle charger will ensure your vehicle starts when you need it to.

CHECK YOUR VEHICLE'S TIRE PRESSURE

As the weather gets colder, it is particularly important to monitor tire pressure. In cold weather conditions, low tire pressure is more common. This is because fluctuating temperatures cause the air in your tires to expand and contract. As good tires are essential for icy conditions, low tire pressure leads to poor performance on the road. In addition to monitoring tire pressure, utilizing snow or winter tires may be worth the investment. Winter tires will help with traction and safety on icy winter roads.

GET AN OIL CHANGE

To ensure your engine runs efficiently in cold weather conditions, it needs to be properly lubricated. Due to the fact that cold weather reduces the effectiveness of car oil, it is necessary to use thinner oil during the winter months. Therefore, the wintertime can be a good opportunity to switch to synthetic oil, provided it is appropriate for your vehicle. Overall, synthetic oil is more free-flowing at temperatures below freezing and offers protection against your vehicle’s engine immediately. This is because synthetic oil does not require any time to warm up. Be sure to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure you are using the proper oil viscosity.

PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE'S EXTERIOR

As the temperature drops, exposure to the cold elements is not ideal for the exterior of your vehicle. Whenever possible, always seek shelter for your vehicle in the cold months. This keeps brushing the snow and scraping the ice off of it to a minimum. If you have a garage, it is recommended that you utilize it to park your vehicle. Shelter protects your vehicle’s paint job from the elements.

In addition to your vehicle’s exterior, protecting your vehicle’s interior is also important throughout the winter. Use snow mats to keep melted snow and dirt from wrecking the carpet of your vehicle.

REPLACE YOUR WIPER BLADES

In conditions where snow and ice are prevalent, clear visibility on the road is especially important. To ensure clear visibility, good-quality windshield wiper blades are essential. A good set of wiper blades will suffice for all seasons, and there is not necessarily a need for wiper blades that are winter-specific. However, it is recommended that you replace windshield wiper blades once a year. In addition, a car scraper should always be used to remove ice from your windshield. This will prolong the life of your windshield wipers.

Following these easy tips will ensure you drive comfortably and stay safe on the roads this winter. When you’re driving, you should focus only on the road that is in front of you and if you get in any collision or accident, contact Western Millennium Collision for all your vehicle repair needs.

Western Millennium Collision Is a Trusted Saskatoon Collision Repair & Auto Body Shop.

Wiegers Financial & Benefits is one of the largest private financial planning and employee benefits consulting firms in Saskatchewan. Its Saskatoon Financial Planning Division provides business owners, households, retirees, and students with expert investment and insurance planning services to help them reach their long-term financial goals. They also have a Benefits and Personal Insurance division. 

They explain everything you need to keep current in your financial plan in their latest Wiegers Financial tip. Wiegers Financial & Benefits are Trusted Saskatoon Financial Advisors 

Up to Date or Out of Date? Everything You Need to Keep Current in Your Financial Plan

JOB Heating & Air Conditioning Saskatoon is eager to provide the best possible customer experience. Their aim is to be a professional resource for our clients before, during, and after the sale! Their team takes pride in service knowledge of modern equipment and training. They are recognized by peers and offer sales, service, training & installations for residential, and commercial Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing systems in Saskatoon and area. JOB Heating & Air are Trusted Saskatoon Plumbers

In their latest article, Jeff Bolton, JOB's owner, shares their top fall plumbing tips.

5 Fall Plumbing Tips From JOB Heating and Air Conditioning

Here are 5 fall plumbing tips to help protect your home this season. 

Tip #1: Disconnect and Store Outdoor Water Hoses

Since outdoor hoses are made from rubber, freezing and thawing weakens the material and causes cracks. Disconnecting hoses in the winter and storing them in an area of your home that does not reach freezing temperatures will ensure the longevity of your hose is maintained. If you leave your outdoor hose connected all winter long, any leftover water can freeze and expand. This causes faucets and any connected pipes inside your home to freeze and potentially burst. 

After disconnecting your outdoor house, it is important to check the faucet for any leaks. Faucet leaks can lead to water damage and cause plumbing issues when temperatures drop and things freeze. Once faucets are checked for leaks, it is a good idea to insulate them for further protection.

Tip #2: Shut Off Outside Faucets 

Most homes are equipped with an interior shut-off valve for the outside faucets. Be sure to shut off and drain them so there is no remaining water in the outside lines that could freeze and create plumbing issues.

Tip #3: Inspect Your Hot Water Heater and Ensure Maintenance is Completed

The fall season is the perfect time to drain your hot water heater as it needs to work much harder in the cold months to provide hot water to your household. Maintenance includes flushing your hot water heater to remove sediment build up. The sediment build up is important to remove as it causes rust and can block proper heat transfer. Flushing your hot water heater will ensure it is operating efficiently, saving you money on your hot water bills. 

If your hot water heater is more than 20 years old it may be time to consider a replacement before something goes wrong. You do not want to be stuck without hot water, especially heading into winter.

Tip #4: Insulate Your Pipes

Be sure to insulate any pipes that may be exposed to cold temperatures such as those in your basement and garage. Insulating your pipes properly will prevent them from freezing in the winter. 

It is important to note that it is common for gaps to develop in the areas where pipes enter your home. These gaps between the pipes and the walls allow for cold air to get through. Cold air seepage can lead to pipes freezing and thus increase your heating bill. Luckily these gaps can be sealed using caulking and weather stripping, and taking the time to seal them can prevent larger issues down the road.

Tip #5: Inspect Your Sump Pump

A working sump pump is extremely important to prevent flooding as it removes excess water from the foundation of your property. If your sump pump is left exposed to extreme temperatures it can freeze. Freezing prevents your sump pump from operating correctly and can compromise its ability to protect your home. Be sure to inspect your sump pump this fall to ensure it is working as it should, or have it inspected by a professional if you are unsure.

These are just a few plumbing tips to help protect your home this fall. If you need any assistance with your plumbing, furnace, or home heating equipment, do not hesitate to contact our team at JOB Heating & Air Conditioning.

JOB Heating & Air Conditioning is a Trusted Saskatoon plumbing company. They show up on time, deliver on budget, and leave the work area cleaner than when they arrived! They take pride in their work in this city and surrounding area, so nothing means more to us than testimonials from their clients as their preferred plumber in Saskatoon.

‘Your Comfort is Our Concern!’

JOB Heating & Air Conditioning Are Trusted Saskatoon Plumbing Professionals 

As an award-winning SASKATOON REAL Estate agent, Marla Janzen knows the city and surrounding area extremely well. She strives to find her clients the perfect new place to live while negotiating the best terms and price possible. She has a keen eye for house layout and home staging, which really benefits her clients, most of whom are past client referrals! In her latest Saskatoon real estate tip, Marla shares tips on how to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. 

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR FALL FEELS

Fall has a certain air to it, don’t you think? As the seasons change, it’s time to get your house ready for the coming rain, snow, and ice. The best way to avoid problems later in the season is to plan ahead and do some simple house maintenance as early as now. By doing this, you’ll be free to take advantage of everything the autumn season has to offer. To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of practical things to do on your own. However, hiring a professional to do it for you will be more cost-effective in the long run, saving you both time and money.

Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare your house for the colder months ahead.

1. Check the roof for leaks

From the ground, you should be able to get a good look at it. Consider using a pair of binoculars or scaling a nearby structure for a better vantage point if you’re up for the challenge. Look for shingles that are loose, broken, or missing. The removal of leaves and other debris can be necessary if your roof is flat.

2. Make sure your gutters are clear

It’s critical to maintain the smooth flow of your roof’s drainage system, which annually diverts tens of thousands of gallons of water from the exterior and foundation walls of your residence. Clogged gutters can result in water damage to your home’s exterior and a flooded basement. They rust and corrode more quickly. Remove all debris from your gutters and cover them with mesh gutter guards before the leaves start falling this season.

3. Remove leaves and check the trees in your area

4. Replace window and door screens

Strengthen the windows and doors of your home. Having storm windows and doors would be best as replacements for your screens. All doors and windows should have caulk and seals checked.

5. Pool closeout

Schedule a pool closing service if you have a pool and live in a cold climate. If you are capable, you can buy the supplies and close your pool yourself if you know how to do this task.

6. Garage clean up

Organizing your garage or shed for fall and winter is a terrific time to search through your supplies. Don’t wait for snow trouble before you find that snow shovel of yours. If you live in an area with erratic weather, be sure your snowblower is serviced and ready to go.

7. Manage the shed

Most often than not, we have summer items filing up our storage. It’s an excellent time to organize and clean up your shed now by rearranging and putting all summer items at the back and winter products in the front to make it easier to get the things you’d need in the colder seasons. Be sure to get rid of everything that could freeze, as well. Restore and store outdoor furniture that has been left unused over the winter. Clean the cushions by removing them and washing them—store furniture in a dry spot throughout the winter after cleaning and drying it.

8. Make a bundle of firewood a priority

With fireplaces in mind, it’s time to start accumulating firewood. You’ll be happy you did it when the cold weather arrives. Use dried and ready-to-use firewood if you’ve collected it yourself. Covering and storing firewood away from the home is the safest option. Outside, construct a firewood rack and a carrier for moving the wood inside. Make sure you have enough wood on hand for the entire season.

9. Take care of the fireplace and the chimney

The colder months would surely make you and your family spend more time together, lounging in front of the fireplace. Ensure that the fireplace and chimney are both working properly before using the fireplace. It’s highly recommended that you have a professional chimney sweep and inspection if you frequently use your wood fireplace. To avoid chimney fires, schedule a chimney cleaning appointment right away.

10. Make sure that the furnace and boiler are working properly

You should check your furnace or boiler in the fall to make sure it’s ready for the cold weather. A furnace’s filters should be changed on a regular basis throughout the fall and winter. Have it inspected if necessary,  by doing so, you’ll be saving money on your utility bills and have extra for shopping, maybe?

11. Turn off all faucets and put hoses away in a dry place

Disconnect outside spigots and drain garden hoses. Turn off external faucets and, if your house is older, the valve inside. Shut everything down. Keep hoses out of the freezer by storing them in a dry location. Follow the manufacturer’s protocol for draining and safeguarding an in-ground irrigation system from winter damage to freezeproof it.

All faucets that leave your home should have an internal shut-off valve. If the interior shut-off valve has a drain stopper, open it while the outside faucet is still turned on. The drain plug on the shut-off valve should be closed and then turn the outdoor faucet back to the off position once all of the water has been completely drained from the line. If you don’t have shut-off valves or can’t find them, hire a certified plumber to install them.

Blowout sprinkler lines and irrigation system. At this time, your irrigation system may need to be drained and checked. Repairs should be performed by a professional, and sprinkler heads near snow removal zones should be marked. By doing this, you’ll have peace of mind during the freezing season.

12. Check the condition of your furnace

It would be best if you had a professional inspect your heating system once a year. Think about doing this task before winter sets in so you don’t have to rush. And while you are at it, include your furnace on the checklist too. Hire an HVAC professional to check for leaks, evaluate the heating efficiency, and change the filter. They can also check for carbon monoxide for air safety. Also, keep spare air filters on hand and swap them out regularly.

13. Clean humidifiers

During the months when it’s operating, maintaining your central humidifier will make you and your house more pleasant. To begin, look over the plates or pads and, if necessary, give them a good cleaning with a strong solution of laundry detergent. Use a wire brush or steel wool to remove mineral deposits after rinsing the area well and drying. Replace any worn-out filters and give the compartment a thorough cleaning. Vinegar is a low-cost and effective solution. Just a trivia, did you know that dry winter air makes fine wood more susceptible to cracking? So much so that dry winter air can also cause harm or irritation on our skin.

14. Make time for carpet care

Cleaning your carpets is best done in the fall. This season is the most fantastic time to open windows and let fresh air in to help with drying. If you don’t know how to operate a carpet cleaning machine, hire a pro to do it for you.

15. Comfy clean bedding

Get your down and cotton comforters, linens, and knits out of the closet and give them a good cleaning. After a thorough wash, place your blankets in a handy closet so that they’re ready to go when the frigid nights arrive.

There you have it—my practical guide to prepping your home for fall. Make sure your house is ready for the next autumn season by being smart and practical. Preventative maintenance now will save you money on costly emergency repairs and other expenditures in the long run. Maintaining your house well not only increases its worth and appeal but also saves you time and energy. 

Is there something you need help with around the house or are you planning to sell or buy a new home for the winter? Contact award-winning SASKATOON REAL Estate agent Marla Janzen today for a free consultation! 

• See Marla Janzen's Saskatoon and Warman Real Estate Listings Here
• For more testimonials and reviews about Marla Janzen click here
• Free Market Analysis
• Read More Of Marlas Client Review on Rate My Agent Here 

Marla guarantees to provide you with a stress-free, hassle-free, wonderful experience and we are sure once you have met her that you will not contact anyone else!

Marla Janzen is a TRUSTED SASKATOON REALTOR®