Ice storm safety tips and resources for individuals
Ice storms are caused by freezing rain and cold temperatures which may lead to property damage, power outages and hazardous conditions. We are here to help should you need to file a claim.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the storm and keep your family and property safe.
Prepare today
- Clean your gutters 鈥� Remove leaves and debris that may impact melting ice or snow from flowing.
- Perform regular property maintenance 鈥� Care for trees and shrubs that are close to the house, as frozen branches can break and cause damage.
- Seal cracks and insulate - Seal all cracks, holes, windows, doors, and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from entering.
- Insulate and add sensors to exposed pipes 鈥� Use pipe insulation, blankets, Styrofoam or swimming pool water noodles to help keep pipes from freezing. Adding a low temperature sensor near exposed pipes can also be useful, especially for seasonal homes which may not be winterized.
- Install heat tape along the edges of the roof - Adding heat tape or strips can help melt holes through existing ice dams to potentially prevent water back-up.
If a storm is coming
- Charge your phone and electronic devices.
- Set your heat to 60 degrees or higher and put your refrigerator on the coldest setting.
- Know where the main water shutoff is and how it works (in case pipes freeze).
- Fill your car and generator with gas and keep extra fuel handy.
- Stock up on salt and sand to help melt the ice and provide traction on slippery surfaces. Non-clumping kitty litter can also provide temporary traction if you don't have time to wait for the ice to melt.
- Keep home ventilation clear and shovel out vents.
- Invest in a roof rake and check existing snow loads on your roof.
- Prepare your emergency kit and emergency plan.
Beware of black ice
Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that forms on road surfaces, making them very slippery. It's hard to see as it blends in with the color of the road, posing a significant danger to pedestrians and motorists. Black ice forms when temperatures drop below freezing, causing moisture on the road to freeze, and is often found in shaded or less-traveled areas.
During the storm
- Keep heat at 60 degrees or higher and close entries to unheated spaces to prevent frozen pipes.
- Use generators outside where exhaust fumes can鈥檛 enter through window or door cracks.
- Turn refrigerators and freezers to 鈥渉igh鈥� in case of power outages.
- Fill tubs and sinks with water (for washing and flushing only) if you are on a well.
- Be careful when using a wood stove, fireplace or space heater.
After the storm
- Don't clear tree limbs that are connected to power lines. Report them to your local utility company.
- Use caution when chipping ice or digging through snow as downed power lines could be buried.
- If there is flooding:
- Clean up pools of water
- Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.
- Move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth.
- Move items away from damp areas.
Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if there is damage and protect the property while mitigating any future risk.
Sources: e, , ,
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Ice storm safety tips and resources for individuals
Ice storms are caused by freezing rain and cold temperatures which may lead to property damage, power outages and hazardous conditions. We are here to help should you need to file a claim.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the storm and keep your family and property safe.
Prepare today
- Clean your gutters 鈥� Remove leaves and debris that may impact melting ice or snow from flowing.
- Perform regular property maintenance 鈥� Care for trees and shrubs that are close to the house, as frozen branches can break and cause damage.
- Seal cracks and insulate - Seal all cracks, holes, windows, doors, and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from entering.
- Insulate and add sensors to exposed pipes 鈥� Use pipe insulation, blankets, Styrofoam or swimming pool water noodles to help keep pipes from freezing. Adding a low temperature sensor near exposed pipes can also be useful, especially for seasonal homes which may not be winterized.
- Install heat tape along the edges of the roof - Adding heat tape or strips can help melt holes through existing ice dams to potentially prevent water back-up.
If a storm is coming
- Charge your phone and electronic devices.
- Set your heat to 60 degrees or higher and put your refrigerator on the coldest setting.
- Know where the main water shutoff is and how it works (in case pipes freeze).
- Fill your car and generator with gas and keep extra fuel handy.
- Stock up on salt and sand to help melt the ice and provide traction on slippery surfaces. Non-clumping kitty litter can also provide temporary traction if you don't have time to wait for the ice to melt.
- Keep home ventilation clear and shovel out vents.
- Invest in a roof rake and check existing snow loads on your roof.
- Prepare your emergency kit and emergency plan.
Beware of black ice
Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that forms on road surfaces, making them very slippery. It's hard to see as it blends in with the color of the road, posing a significant danger to pedestrians and motorists. Black ice forms when temperatures drop below freezing, causing moisture on the road to freeze, and is often found in shaded or less-traveled areas.
During the storm
- Keep heat at 60 degrees or higher and close entries to unheated spaces to prevent frozen pipes.
- Use generators outside where exhaust fumes can鈥檛 enter through window or door cracks.
- Turn refrigerators and freezers to 鈥渉igh鈥� in case of power outages.
- Fill tubs and sinks with water (for washing and flushing only) if you are on a well.
- Be careful when using a wood stove, fireplace or space heater.
After the storm
- Don't clear tree limbs that are connected to power lines. Report them to your local utility company.
- Use caution when chipping ice or digging through snow as downed power lines could be buried.
- If there is flooding:
- Clean up pools of water
- Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.
- Move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth.
- Move items away from damp areas.
Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if there is damage and protect the property while mitigating any future risk.
Sources: e, , ,