Weather Hazard Safety Tips

No matter if your region of the country is known for its hurricanes, major blizzards or susceptibility to mudslides, one factor remains constant: You’ve got to be prepared. From heat waves to freezing cold temperatures and flash floods, weather hazards claim hundreds of lives per year. As a result, survival is often dependent on how well prepared you are to deal with the aftermath.
Keep Track of the Weather
Is a storm headed your way? When particular weather events could impact your area, the first course of action is determining when it will arrive. Many get their information from the television, but should you lose power, having a NOAA Weather Radio with a battery back-up lets you keep track of its pathway and strength before and during the storm.
Understand Common Hazards
For those of us in New England, snowstorms have potential to turn into blizzards, leaving several feet of snow blanketed across the ground, vehicles and roofs. This situation doesn’t just leave you trapped inside your house but, should enough snow accumulate, the chances your roof could collapse grow exponentially. In response, homeowners across the state need an effective plan for snow removal.
However, those along Connecticut Shore Line are prone to flood risks, particularly from hurricanes and tropical storms. These residents require a different plan of action – one that, depending on the weather’s severity, could involve leaving the area entirely.
Make an Emergency Plan
With the above factors considered, have a clear, defined emergency plan that involves:

• Where you will be during the storm. Will you remain at home or leave the area?
• Should you have to leave, which routes will you take?
• Do you have enough supplies, including food and first aid at home, equipment to dig yourself out of the snow or gas to power your vehicle?
• Do you have a back-up power source if the power goes out?
• Have back-up lighting, cash and phone resources.
• How will you keep updated on the weather and emergency alerts?
• In certain cases, be prepared to be away from the area for several days.
• Always share your weather preparedness plan with friends and family, so they know how to contact you, where you can be found and check in with them periodically.

To be prepared for the aftermath of a collapsed roof, broken windows or a flooded basement, make sure you have enough homeowner’s insurance coverage. To adjust and upgrade your policy to fit your current situation, give us a call at 203.439.2815.