Winter comes the same time each year, and yet people seem to be caught off guard when stormy winter weather comes with it. Fortunately, with some proper preparation, you can help to prepare for any blizzard or other winter storm that might come along, minimizing the risk to yourself, your family, and your home. Here are five tips to prepare for a blizzard this winter:
- Have an emergency kit ready
- In the event of a severe blizzard or other winter storm, you may be forced to leave your home on short notice. In case that happens, make sure you have an emergency kit ready with everything you might need if you need to spend a few days away from home. This includes extra warm clothes, necessary medications, a flashlight, radio, a first aid kit, and non-perishable food, in the event you may not be able to get any otherwise.
- Make sure to watch for official warnings
- If you are going to face severe winter weather, such as a blizzard, make sure to pay attention to any official government warnings. Pay attention to warnings about temperature, wind chill, and wind speed. If there is a blizzard or winter storm warning, you should make sure you are prepared to either stay in your home for an extended period, or leave and seek shelter elsewhere.
- Make sure your home is adequately insulated
- Keeping your home properly insulated is not just about saving on energy bills. It can also keep your home warmer during a potential blizzard, helping to retain heat if you lose power during the storm. It can also prevent the formation of ice dams on your roof, which increase the risk of leaks and flooding inside your home.
- Store fuel or firewood in a safe place
- If you have an alternative source of heat such as a furnace or fireplace, make sure to stock up on firewood or other fuel. The same goes for if you have a generator to help keep power if the electricity goes out. Stocking up in advance will ensure you do not have an emergency if you are forced to have an extended period without power or heat.
- Consider purchasing flood insurance
- While many homeowners’ insurance policies cover damage directly from a storm, many policies do not cover flooding. This can be a major issue after a blizzard, as melting snow can cause flooding inside of your home, particularly if you live near a river or other body of water. Thankfully, you may be able to purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) if you are at risk of flooding.
Anytime your home or other dwelling has been ruined or severely damaged, it is essential that you protect your property and the interest of your investment by enlisting the services of a Rubin and Rosen public adjuster. We can provide the assistance you need by helping you to work through the entire insurance process. If you want to make a property insurance claim and need assistance to obtain fair compensation for your losses, please give us a call at 718-376-6800 or visit our contact page.