Hail 101: Who’s at Risk and Preventing Damage

Unfortunately, you can’t escape the elements. Every home and business is susceptible to hail damage, which is why it is important for everyone to be proactive with damage prevention plans.

• Inspect and maintain your roof – Inspect your roof regularly and take immediate measures if you notice a problem. Replace broken and damaged shingles without delay. If there are leaks in the roof, correct them now. Ensure the overall condition of the roof is good and that the chimney can be closed if necessary.
• Maintain the trees – Eliminate the risk of trees or branches falling on your home during a storm by pruning trees and shrubs back. Get rid of diseased and dead branches that could easily snap off in a storm.
• Keep gutters and drainpipes clear – Make sure water can drain away from the house quickly by clearing the gutters and drainpipes of dirt and debris.
• Create a disaster preparedness plan – When the hail arrives, your family members should know how to handle it. Create a plan that you will all stick to. Identify the safest places in the home and the shortest escape routes. Always stay under cover during a hailstorm. Discuss with your household members where you’ll seek shelter if you are caught outside during a storm.
• Prepare an emergency kit – Hailstorms have been severe enough to bring down power lines, leaving homes without electricity for days. When this happens, you’ll be thankful you prepared an emergency kit full of non-perishable food, water, blankets, a first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable radio, basic tools, and any prescription medicines.
• Cover vehicles – Protect your cars, boats, and RVs by putting them into a garage before a hailstorm arrives. Hail could damage the paint and high winds could pick up objects and blow them into your vehicles.
• Close windows and doors tightly – This will prevent rainwater and flying debris from getting into your home and causing damage inside or hurting someone. Close the blinds and curtains – if hailstones break the windows, you will have some protection from the shattered glass.