Prepare for Spring Storms!

HAPPY MARCH 1st!

As spring approaches, we found something through AAA which needs to be passed along – might be helpful in reminding everyone that we need to remain diligent!

SPRING STORM PREPARATION

HEAVY RAIN
Check gutters and downspouts in early spring to make sure they are pointing away from your home. It’s a good rule of thumb to check the entry points where rainwater enters to ensure the area is free of leaves and debris, which may cause water to back up and flow in an unintended direction – towards or into the home. Install splash blocks at the water outlet points of downspouts or install underground piping to further direct water away from your home.
Familiarize yourself with flood insurance because heavy rain often has fast rising water. Many people are not aware that flood damage is not provided by a common homeowner’s insurance policy.

HIGH WINDS
Two or three consecutive rainy days combined with windy conditions typically cause trees or limbs to fall. Spring is a good time to inspect trees, fences and other structures as proactive measures to avoid something from landing on your home. If extreme storm warnings are communicated in advance, always move any unsecured patio furniture, sports equipment or items that have potential to blow into your house or property. And, should trees or limbs happen to fall, remember to move your automobile out of striking distance to avoid potential damage.
Lastly, it is always a good idea to trim back branches and foliage encroaching the home’s roof area, windows, outside walls, fences and decking.

HAIL
It’s fascinating to see frozen balls of ice falling form the sky when it is 80 degrees outside. However, hail is extremely damaging to homes and automobiles. Pull your vehicles inside a garage or carport, if available, to prevent damage to the finish and glass. Notify your homeowners’ insurance company as soon as storm damage occurs and seek an expert opinion to assess the situation. If someone uninvited comes to your home and claims you have damage, consider this a red flag and proceed with caution before entering into any repair contracts.
– Jim McCafferty, Senior Vice President of AAA Insurance Services