{"id":2111,"date":"2020-02-10T01:34:21","date_gmt":"2020-02-10T06:34:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vps.gsltechnologies.com\/~guthrieinsurance\/?p=2111"},"modified":"2020-02-10T01:34:21","modified_gmt":"2020-02-10T06:34:21","slug":"storm-safety-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/guthrieinsurance.com\/wp22\/storm-safety-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Storm Safety Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"

During a major rain and wind storm, damage to buildings; such as roof shingles and windows, may occur and flooding and power outages are possible. Every year, homes are damaged by weather-related events, and homeowners are subjected to the considerable costs and stress that result. Please see our damage prevention tips below to protect yourself and your property from extreme weather.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wind & Water Damage Prevention Tips<\/p>\n

1. Pick up around your yard<\/p>\n

\u2022Pick up or secure any loose items stored outside or belongings in your backyard as these can become flying debris which can cause damage and personal injury.<\/p>\n

\u2022Store these items in your home, garage or shed.\u2022If you have a pool, consider tying down a tarp over your pool to prevent debris entering or damaging your pool.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Prepare your home<\/p>\n

\u2022Have a licensed plumbing professional install an inline backwater valve to help prevent sewer back-up. Check with your municipality regarding any permits required or by-laws that may exist.<\/p>\n

\u2022Consider hiring a professional to install a sump pump to prevent groundwater from entering your basement. Check the sump pump regularly to make sure it is functioning properly. If you choose to install an electric sump pump, consider installing a battery-operated back-up in the event of a power outage.<\/p>\n

\u2022Keep your drains and toilets free of household grease and other foreign objects that can cause blockage.<\/p>\n

\u2022Know where your basement floor drains are, and keep them clear.<\/p>\n

\u2022Consider installing a leak-detector or high-water alarm.<\/p>\n

\u2022Check your hot water tanks to see if your tank shows signs of leakage, visible rust or dark water at the faucet.<\/p>\n

\u2022Know where your shut-off valves are\u2014and how to turn them off in an emergency.<\/p>\n

\u2022Check all appliance hoses (washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, etc.). Consider replacing old ones with wire mesh hoses that include automatic water shut-off valves.<\/p>\n

3. Check out the trees on your property\u2022Inspect the trees on your property for loose or damaged branches.\u2022If it’s unsafe for you to remove compromised branches on your own, call a professional to get the job done.<\/p>\n

4. Regularly maintain downspouts and eavestroughs<\/p>\n

\u2022Check your eavestrough and downspouts every spring and fall to ensure that they are not blocked.<\/p>\n

\u2022Ensure downspouts discharge at least one meter from the side of your home and away from your neighbour’s property.<\/p>\n

\u2022Subject to municipality approval, disconnect any downspouts that are connected to the sewer system.\u2022Install window wells on basement windows at or near ground level.\u2022Have a licensed professional check your weeping tiles in case they are damaged or blocked.<\/p>\n

\u2022Consider having older clay piping replaced with metal, PVC or ABS pipes, as clay piping can get blocked with tree roots.<\/p>\n

5. Inspect your roof for weaknesses\u2022It’s imperative to routinely have your roof inspected for things like loose or damaged shingles, debris pileups, bare spots, and more. Contact a roofing contractor if shingles appear deteriorated or missing. \u2022Visually inspect your roof twice each year. If you have a flat roof, have a roofing contractor make regular inspections.\u2022Poor roofing conditions can allow water to enter your home and cause more wide-spread damage.\u2022It’s safer to hire a professional instead of repairing your roof on your own. Please keep any receipts for your claim.<\/p>\n

6. Know what to do during a flood<\/p>\n

\u2022Do not touch electrical wires, appliances or devices.<\/p>\n

\u2022If the sanitary sewer backs up into your basement, don’t flush the toilet or turn on any taps, even if you have installed a backwater valve. This will only cause further flooding.<\/p>\n

\u2022Never cross a flooded area. Fast water could sweep you or your vehicle away.<\/p>\n

\u2022If safe to do so, separate damaged property from undamaged property, and prepare an inventory of what has been lost or damaged.<\/p>\n

\u2022Take photographs of damaged property.<\/p>\n

\u2022Keep receipts of any clean-up costs incurred (e.g. wet\/dry vacuum rentals, cleaning supplies, etc.).<\/p>\n

7. Check weather stripping on doors and windows\u2022Weather stripping keeps cold, windy drafts from making their way into your home, and prevents warm air from escaping. It also helps prevent water from entering your home.<\/span><\/p>\n

8. Make sure your emergency supply kit is up to date. Here are some of the things you should consider putting in your emergency kit:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u20223 days’ worth of water and nonperishable food for each member of your family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022A manual can opener.<\/span><\/p>\n

-A hand-crank or battery-powered radio so you can stay up to date on advisories.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Cash, flashlights, and extra batteries.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Food, water, and toys for your pets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Infant formula and diapers, if necessary.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Entertainment such as books, magazines, and battery-power electronics.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Medications, a first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and trash bags.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Solar chargers for cell phones and other electronics.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022Copies of important documents, like insurance policies, emergency contact info, and IDs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022A warm blanket or sleeping bag for everyone in the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022At least one change of clothing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022A fire extinguisher.<\/span><\/p>\n

Be sure to store your kit in a place where it’s easy to grab and go.<\/p>\n

9. Prepare for power outages<\/p>\n

\u2022Ensure your fridge and freezers are well stocked and open only when necessary.<\/p>\n

\u2022If you have a generator, prepare it for use \u2013 including checking fuel and oil levels and ensuring it is in proper running condition, prior to an outage.<\/p>\n

\u2022Have flashlights and blankets ready.<\/p>\n

\u2022Fill the bathtub with cold water, in case of extended periods without power.<\/p>\n

\u2022Ensure all technologies (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc) are fully charged.<\/p>\n

\u2022Keep non-perishable foods stocked.<\/p>\n

\u2022Disconnect electronics to prevent electrical surges when power resumes.<\/p>\n

\u2022Have alternative plans to visit friends, family, a warming centre or a mall to stay warm.<\/p>\n

10. Review your insurance policy<\/p>\n

\u2022Be familiar with what your policy covers you for. If you’re unsure, contact your insurer or broker to review and ensure you are adequately protected for the perils of extreme weather.<\/p>\n

…and always “Be Safe Out There!”<\/p>\n

The Advisors @ Guthrie Insurance Brokers Ltd<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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