How to Protect Your Home During a Winter Storm

EditorHomeowners Insurance

What to Do Before, During, and After a Winter StormHow to Protect Your Home During a Winter Storm

According to The National Weather Service, winter storms are known as “Deceptive Killers” due to the fact that most fatalities occur because of other factors unrelated to the storm itself, such as auto accidents or the result of hypothermia and frostbite. As the east coast gets slammed with harsh winter weather conditions, it’s important that as a homeowner you know how to protect your family and property. It’s important to be prepared for these weather conditions by having a Family Communications Plan in place and preparing a home emergency kit, but you should also know what to do during the storm. Here are some tips on how to protect your home during a winter storm.

  • Stay indoors as much as possible and only drive if it’s absolutely necessary. If you do go outdoors, walk carefully on snowy and icy walkways.
  • Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow, as this can cause harm to your body.
  • Keep dry and watch for any signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
  • If you do have to drive, let someone know your destination, route, and when you expect to arrive.
  • Maintain ventilation in your home when using kerosene heaters, and conserve fuel if necessary by keeping your residence cooler than normal.
  • If pipes freeze, remove any insulation and wrap pipes in rags. Completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they were most exposed to the cold.

After a harsh winter storm, go to a designated public shelter if your home has lost power or heat. You can text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area. For more information on this and what else to do when a winter storm hits, visit Ready.gov.

At Sinclair Risk & Financial Management, we understand how important it is for you to protect not only your family, but your property as well. Connecticut Personal Insurance has been at the core of our operations for over 40 years. Please contact us today at (877) 602-2305 to learn more about our Homeowners Insurance policies and more.