If you live in a cold climate, you’re likely familiar with harsh winter conditions such as snow, sleet, and occasional blizzards. While preparing for these weather events is essential, it’s also crucial to get your home ready for the possibility of ice storms.
According to the National Weather Service, ice storms can cause trees and utility poles to fall, disrupting communications and power for days while utility companies work to repair the extensive damage. You can prepare your home and family for these risks in several ways.
Get your home ready
One of the most effective ways to prepare for an ice storm is to ensure that your home is ready to withstand harsh conditions.
- Examine your roof and gutters: To avoid ice accumulation and ice dams, check that your roof is in good shape and that your gutters are debris-free.
- Secure outdoor items: Bring inside or secure any loose items, like patio furniture, that might become projectiles in high winds.
- Keep trees trimmed: The weight of ice can increase the burden on branches, causing limbs to break and even trees to topple. This can cause significant damage to homes or property, resulting in costly repairs.
- Inspect insulation: Make sure your home is adequately insulated to keep heat in and prevent pipes from freezing.
- Gather supplies: Keep a week’s worth of essential items, such as blankets, non-perishable food, water, medications, and a first-aid kit.
Prepare for power outages
Ice storms can also lead to major power outages due to the accumulation of ice on power lines. To prepare for the possibility of being without electricity for extended periods, there are some things you can do.
Invest in a backup generator
A generator can provide temporary power for essential appliances and heating requirements.
Keep your phone fully charged
Before the storm hits, make sure your phone is charged, and think about having a power bank on hand for extra back up power.
Build an emergency supply kit
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends having the following items on hand in the event of an emergency:
- Water
- Non-perishable food
- Medication
- Pet food
- Manual can opener
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
Create an emergency plan
Having a well-prepared emergency strategy is essential during any winter storm. Here are some steps you and your family can take:
- Sign up for local breaking news alerts on your mobile devices to stay informed about the latest updates in your area.
- Create a plan with family members so everyone knows whom to contact in an emergency.
- Designate a meeting place in case you need to evacuate or if you get separated.
We hope you found these tips on preparing for an ice storm useful. Planning can reduce potential damage to your home and property and prioritize your family’s safety.
If you’re unsure what your home insurance policy covers or want additional coverage, remember that your independent agent can always review your policy to ensure you have the coverage that best suits your needs. And if you don’t have Mapfre for your home insurance, you can get the right coverage for your property by calling an independent insurance agent in your state or, if you live in Massachusetts, by getting a fast, free online quote today!
