Expecting hail? How to mitigate damage to yourself and your property
When it comes to severe weather, preparedness is key to minimize or prevent the property damage that can arise as a result. Hail can be particularly costly, so The Co-operators have compiled a list of action items you can take before, during and after it falls
While individuals can’t prevent severe weather from happening, they can take steps to reduce the property damage they may incur from it.
Severe storms in Canada every year serve as a reminder to take steps to protect outdoor property from extreme wind and hail events.
DON'T MISS: From nuisance to nightmare: Huge hail is an extreme danger
Such could be the case on Tuesday in southern Ontario. The region will be facing a threat of severe thunderstorms, which may produce damaging winds, heavy rain and large hail. All the hazards are capable of causing some form of damage, with hail being a credible threat of resulting in property or even personal impairment in some cases.
The Co-operators, an all-Canadian financial services organization, have compiled a list tips for homeowners to enact in order to prevent and minimize property loss.
Hail damage in Calgary, Alta., on Aug. 4, 2024. (Connor O'Donovan/The Weather Network)
Before the hail hits
Clear your eavestroughs of debris to minimize ice dams or water damage.
Inspect your roof for damage and repair any problem areas.
Remove weak branches or trees in close proximity to your home.
Store patio furniture and outdoor accessories in an enclosed space.
Move vehicles into a garage or use a hail-protector cover to avoid costly repairs.
If you're in the planning stages of renovating your home, The Co-operators recommend considering impact-resistant shingles and exterior coverings that are rated to withstand hail. You can also install permanent or temporary storm-shutter systems to protect windows and other glass surfaces, such as skylights and sliding doors.
During the storm
Avoid finding shelter under trees or in areas like culverts that can suddenly fill with water.
Stay indoors and away from windows, glass doors and skylights.
Close drapes or blinds to protect yourself from broken glass and flying debris.
Keep pets indoors and provide shelter for farm animals.
Hailstones. (Charles Dunham/Submitted to The Weather Network)
And, if you're caught driving during a severe thunderstorm, first and foremost, avoid parking under overpasses.
Pull into a gas station or other covered structure (other than an overpass).
Pull over and angle your vehicle so that hail hits the reinforced windshield rather than side and back windows.
Avoid flooded roads.
After the hail stops
Inspect roof for damage, repair any problem areas and clear eavestroughs.
Clean up any other debris and make any temporary repairs.
If there is a power outage, turn off electronics and appliances to avoid damage from a power surge.
(Getty Images/ Komarov Vitaly/Creative #:1171541773)
Use a flashlight instead of candles, which can be a fire hazard.
Turn off valves, if you detect any gas leaks.
Also, if your property is impacted by a hailstorm, document the damage as soon as possible, The Co-operators advises.
Also, take photos and/or make a video, and keep records for cleanup costs complete and available to help simplify your insurance claims experience.
Thumbnail courtesy of Shannon, taken in Lindsay, Ont., on Aug. 3, 2023.