In Nova Scotia, the weather is constantly changing. One minute it’s sunny and the next it’s raining or snowing. At OTC Insurance we want to make sure you’re covered for whatever Mother Nature throws at you. While autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Nova Scotia it is also the height of the hurricane seasons and as we continue to see an increasing number of severe weather events, it’s important to make sure you have the right coverage and are prepared for all weather events.
Peter Keefe is director of operations, Atlantic Canada, for First Onsite Property Restoration recently quoted in Saltwater that Atlantic Canadians should prepare for heightened hurricane risks. “Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November, though the first two and a half months of the season are typically non-threatening,” says Peter Keefe in the article PETER KEEFE: Heightened hurricane risk in Atlantic Canada. Are you ready?.
Atlantic Canada is known for its hurricane seasons and the destruction they can cause. Even Hurricane Dorion of 2019, when it made landfall it was no longer a hurricane, but the storm still resulted in more than $105 million in insured damages.
While there are no threatening storms now, we advise everyone regularly monitor local weather
reports, be aware of available notifications or alerting systems, and make any necessary preparations to keep you, your family, and your property protected. There are things you can do now to get your property storm safe, such as
Tips on how to protect your property:
- Sealing any openings, such as cracks that may allow water into the property.
- Trimming or removing any damaged trees and branches that could be affected by hurricane-strength winds.
- Secure loose rain guttering and clear them of any debris.
- Invest in and regularly check and repair generators, pumping equipment and mechanical areas.
- Check portable and emergency lighting to ensure it is in working order
- Restock batteries, flashlights and lightbulbs.
Hurricanes can create widespread devastation and can have lasting effects on commercial properties too. Hazards such as flooding, storm surges, and high winds can cause extreme damage to any size building. Proper planning and preparation can minimize the effects a hurricane can have on a commercial property. Check out our blog on, Preparing your business for a hurricane
As always, reach out to one of our team members to ensure you have adequate coverage for all
weather-related events.