Be safe, but have fun!
With a massive weather event bearing down on the Northeast and high winds and heavy snow predicted, many people have already started preparing for the storm. We would like to share a few tips from The Hanover Insurance Group to help our clients in keeping their homes and businesses safe, in potentially unsafe conditions.
A few simple steps now, or even once the weather event begins, can save property – and lives.
- If you have an emergency response plan, activate it before the storm reaches its peak.
- A comprehensive plan would include a communication plan, keeping adequate supplies available (snow and ice melt, heating fuels, anti-freeze, generator fuel, batteries), and having an alternative in case power is interrupted.
- Before the storm starts, make sure fire and carbon monoxide detectors are in working condition to protect property, and people. Heavy snow can cause less air flow within a home or building.
- Ideally, wait until the snow and wind subside before clearing snow. Take care from wind-blown objects and slippery areas, whether it’s from driveways, parking areas, walkways or roofs, to avoid injuries.
- Heavy snow can present problems, see our advisory, “Snow Load Alert – Protect Your Roof” and be aware of the snow load on your roof and deck. Remove snow as soon as possible after a storm.
- Clear snow and ice away from exhaust vents that open through exterior walls, and from the area around hydrants, oil delivery, standpipes and valves.
- Check areas of your home or building that are unheated for water pipes. Keep buildings left empty at 50° F to prevent pipes from freezing. And remember, water pipes don’t just supply sinks, but fire suppression systems; a frozen pipe could break and damage property as well as leave your property unprotected in the event of a fire.
- For businesses; educate and monitor workers who must work in the cold and be sure they’re dressed properly and able to get warm in the event symptoms of cold stress are noted.
While it is important to take caution during storms, such as NEMO, we also hope that everyone will enjoy the time spent "hunkered" down with their families. Often times, when these storms pass we are left with exciting snowmobile trips and sledding adventures with our children! If you need to reach our offices in case of an emergency, you can contact us at 877-352-2121.
