Severe windstorms are becoming more of a worry for property owners and insurers. The damage they are capable of causing to a home can make it unsafe to live in and they can make road conditions dangerous to drive in. Many home and car insurance policies provide coverage for the damage these kinds of storms can bring to a community, but there are things you can do to reduce the amount of destruction a windstorm can muster to your home and car. 

Preparation before a windstorm

The force of the wind in these storms is able to cause damage to your property or to create dangerous projectiles out of loose items around your home. Here are some regular maintenance tips around your property that can lower the chance of harm to your property due to high winds: 

• Look out for dead trees. Dead trees or branches can be tossed by the wind, causing cracks and damage to anything they come into contact with. Pruning dead branches and removing dead trees can help decrease this damage from occurring.
• Trim your trees and shrubs. Keeping your trees and shrubs trimmed will help to keep them from touching your home or power lines during a severe storm.
• Regularly look for loose or missing shingles on your roof. Maintaining the good condition of your roof allows it to protect your home from leaks and water damage. Also check for loose shingles as they have the ability to fly away with a heavy gust of wind, leaving your roof with less protection from the elements.

When you know a severe storm is coming:

• Anchor your patio furniture and other loose items. Make sure loose items are tied or locked down so they do not fly away during a strong windstorm. If items, such as outdoor furniture, bicycles, standalone planters, or toys, cannot be safely secured outside, place them indoors or put them in a garage or shed to keep them safe.
• Avoid parking directly under trees. If possible, park your vehicle in the garage. If you don’t have a garage on your property, you should find a place to park away from trees to prevent any branches or twigs from breaking off during the storm and damaging your vehicle.
• Create an emergency kit. There is a chance your neighbourhood will lose power or your family may not be able to leave your home during the storm. Preparing an emergency kit with at least three days’ worth of supplies for every member of your home (including your pets) will help you and your loved ones get through this difficult time.

What you should do during a windstorm

Wherever you are during a windstorm, staying safe is your priority. Have these tips on hand to help you get through this experience:

• Get off the road. If you are in your car, try to find a safe place, like an underground parking garage.
• Seek safety in a solid building. One of the best places to be during a severe storm is in the basement and away from windows and doors.
• Find shelter outdoors if you cannot make it inside. Seek a sheltered area away from trees or loose objects that could blow towards you. If the severity of the storm seems dangerous, you may want to consider lying face down in a ditch or other low areas. Try to avoid bridges and overpasses as well.

Tips to follow after a windstorm

Keep these tips close once the wind lets up:

• Stay away from downed power lines or electrical equipment. Call your hydro provider right away if you notice damaged electrical wires or your home’s power has gone out.
• Check your roof for damage. If there are any loose shingles on your roof or around your property, arrange to have your roof repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
• Contact your insurance broker if your home has sustained damage. If a home insurance claim needs to be made, call your broker or your insurance company’s 24-hour service line. Make sure you provide important details about the incident to help make sure your claim goes as smoothly as possible.

Are you curious how your own home insurance policy would apply in the event of a windstorm? Have a look at your policy or get in touch with your licensed home insurance broker. If you are looking for home insurance and you’d like the advice of a broker, find one near you today

Resources

https://www.economical.com/en/blog/economical-blog/july-2018/before-during-after-a-windstorm
https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2021/02/18/2020-insured-damage-from-severe-weather-tops-23b-in-canada-island-municipalities-know-first-hand-the-costs-of-high-water-levels-and-extreme-storms.html
https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/insurance-advice-and-information-following-tornado-in-ontario-894216215.html
https://ospe.on.ca/membership/protect-your-home-from-wind-damage
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/emergency-preparedness/making-an-emergency-kit.html
https://www.economical.com/en/blog/economical-blog/january-2017/what-information-is-needed-home-insurance-claim