Sunlight glittering and dancing across ice-encased structures holds scenic appeal, and ice storms in action are often beautiful to watch. However, these dangerous events can also wreak havoc on homes and businesses.
As climate change drives cold weather into regions that are unaccustomed to winter’s icy grip, more properties are exposed and in need of improved winter storm preparedness. Freezing rain and ice accumulation can lead to deadly road conditions, widespread power outages, and property damage.
The February 2021 Polar Vortex is a prime example. This event caused a deep freeze across a wide swath of the United States, affecting Nevada, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and other states that don’t typically experience frigid conditions. It ranks at the top of the Insurance Information Institute’s list of the costliest winter events since 1950.
In 2022, winter storm damage reached nearly $6 billion, underscoring the staggering potential cost. Property owners can implement preventive measures and strategies to minimize the risk of ice storm damage while enhancing safety and protecting properties.
At WorldClaim, we understand the importance of preparing for such natural disasters, and we work tirelessly to help our clients navigate the aftermath. As a public adjuster for winter storm damage for more than four decades, our team has the expertise necessary to provide unparalleled support.
Ice Storm Damage Prevention
Taking a proactive approach won’t eliminate all risks, but it can help mitigate damage caused by high winds, extreme cold, and icy conditions. Keeping people warm and safe is priority one. There are also actions you can take now to help safeguard residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional properties.
Prune Trees and Limbs
Pruning trees and shrubbery can contribute to improved plant health while keeping your property safer from winter weather-related damage. It also eliminates hazards by removing dead, dying, and damaged branches and limbs that are likely to fall during wind and ice events. Once trees lose their leaves, it’s even easier to spot the limbs that should be removed. Look for dead or dying branches, any that cross or rub together, and small limbs that are damaged or broken.
Install Gutter Heaters
As gutters fill with moisture and temperatures plummet, or as sleet and freezing rain fall, it can create icicles and frozen gutters. Both can damage the building, including siding, sheet rock, and insulation. Gutter heaters protect your investment and can eliminate the danger of frozen gutters and the associated costs.
Insulate and Seal
Air leaks and inadequate insulation can send energy costs and use soaring and expose homes, businesses, and other buildings to an increased risk of ice dams. The Insulation Institute estimates that 90% of homes in the U.S. are under-insulated. Additionally, air leaks can suck cold air in from around doors and windows, around vents and soffits, and other areas. Insulating and sealing homes and other properties can save energy and increase comfort. It helps reduce the risk of ice dams and keeps interiors warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Invest in a Generator
The average number of hours that U.S. electricity customers experience without power per year is approximately seven, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. However, an ice storm can quickly down powerlines and create widespread outages. On January 30, 2023, an ice storm left the majority of Austin, Texas, without power for several days, with some outages lasting 10 days or longer.
Investing in a generator can provide much-needed peace of mind and added comfort during power outages any time of year. During an ice storm, it can be the difference between comfort and suffering in the freezing cold. It can also support essential functions, like preventing pipes from freezing and food from spoiling.
Clear Ice and Snow Promptly
Keeping up with ice and snow removal can help enhance the safety of walkways. It also protects structures from the effects of heavy accumulations and damaging freeze-thaw cycles that create ice dams. Ice dams form when snow and ice accumulate on the warm surface of a home or other building, damaging roofing and other structural elements.
Keep Emergency Supplies Ready
Having shelf-stable foods that require minimal to no cooking or refrigeration is essential in case of a power outage. Ensure you have enough water and food for a minimum of three days, including items for anyone with special dietary needs and pets. Other helpful supplies to stock your winter storm preparedness kit include:
- Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns
- Batteries
- Cell phone chargers
- First aid kit
- Mittens, warm clothing, hats, and blankets
- Jumper cables and a full tank of gas
- Snow shovels and brushes for vehicles
- Sand or cat litter for vehicles
Review Insurance Coverage
Knowledge is power. Do you have ice storm insurance coverage? Understanding the kind of coverage you have before you need it makes a tremendous difference. You don’t want to wait until you’re in the middle of the chaos that comes with weather-related emergencies to determine what coverage you have or the process you need to follow to file a claim. Additionally, if you review your policy and have questions, this gives you a chance to update your policy to best meet your needs.
Have a Communication Plan
Communication plans are another excellent way to reduce stress in the middle of an emergency. Memorize phone numbers or write them down and keep them with you. Choose a meeting spot for friends, employees, and loved ones to gather for information. Know where the exits are and what the plan is so that everyone involved knows what to do in case of phone and power outages.
Let WorldClaim Help You Recover from Ice Storm Damage Faster
WorldClaim’s expert team of licensed public adjusters are here to give our clients 110%. The insurance companies have adjusters on their side. With WorldClaim, you have an advocate beside you, too. Learn more about the services we provide as a public adjuster for winter storm damage.
Contact us today online or by calling (800) 470-4700 from inside the U.S. or (518) 456-8523 from international locations.
