Winter storms can prove disastrous with large snow accumulation, freezing temperatures, and extensive damage to your house and property. Though your home may be covered by insurance, you still have to deal with the inconveniences caused by winter storms.
Here are essential tips on winter weather preparation that will keep you safe from severe winter storms.
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Follow Storm Warnings
The first and foremost step you ought to take is to be proactive while preparing for stormy weather. By paying attention to reports issued by the National Weather Service, you can stay up-to-date on storm warnings in your area. If you see a storm warning forecasting six inches or more of snow in a 12-hour period, it indicates a severe winter storm is on the way.
A blizzard warning will be issued if winds are expected to reach 35 mph in conjunction with falling snow. This condition can reduce visibility substantially. You’ll get an ice storm warning if meteorologists expect a half-inch or more of freezing rain.
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Ways to Prepare for Storms
Raking up leaves and removing dead tree branches around your home can help prevent debris from getting blown around on your property during a storm. Make sure your gutters are not clogged, which can lead to water buildup on the roof. It’s helpful to have a professional roofer inspect your roof once per year to check for leaks or other damage. You should also have a specialist inspect your HVAC system to make sure it’s running properly.
Inspecting your insulation will help you decide how much weatherizing your home needs. Check all windows and doors to make sure they are airtight or if they need weather-stripping. Another wise step in preparing for a storm is to check smoke alarms and make sure the batteries work. Think about your backup heating options, such as using the fireplace.
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Establish a Family Emergency Plan
Every household should have a family emergency plan to follow in the event of a natural disaster. Make sure to have backup plans to counter potential disruptions.
If family members need medical care, talk with the medical provider to understand how the treatment will resume if the individual is unable to visit a hospital during a storm. It helps to assemble your own emergency kit that includes winter clothing and blankets. You should also keep an emergency kit in your vehicle and make sure the gas tank is half full.
Preparing for power outages includes knowing where flashlights will be kept. Power lines can go down, generating no electricity for hours. Some homeowners invest in a backup generator that provides temporary power. Even if you don’t have such a machine, you can prepare by making sure all your mobile devices are fully charged.
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Living Through the Storm
Staying calm through the storm is essential to prevent unnecessary panic among your family members. It’s best to stay indoors and only drive if necessary. Make sure you have plenty of warm clothing available, as you probably will need to wear several layers.
If you need to report an emergency such as a gas leak, call 9-1-1, whereas a power outage should be reported to your utility company. You can stay in touch with local authorities by dialing 2-1-1 in case you need further information about shelters in your community.
Make use of these four handy tips to prepare yourself for severe winter storms. You should also make sure you have the right insurance that covers all your valuable belongings. Contact us at 01 Insurance to learn more about how much insurance you need for your New York home.