Preparing for a Hail Storm

Find shelter - avoid water, high ground, isolated trees, picnic shelters and open spaces. 

Avoid underpasses or any low lying areas that may flood. 

Stay indoors and away from windows, glass doors and skylights which can shatter if hit by hail stones. 

Avoid using the telephone during a storm and do not touch metal objects like stoves, radiators, metal pipes and sinks. 

Cover windows with a protective film to resist shattering. 

Install surge arrestors or suppressors to protect your electronics against lightning striking power lines. 

Remove weak branches and trees that could fall on your home. 

Put your vehicle and other valuables in a garage or shelter to avoid being damaged from hail or falling debris. 

Secure or relocate items in your yard - trampolines, patio furniture, umbrellas, toys, etc. - that could be damaged or become projectiles in high winds (which can accompany hailstorms). 

Store important documents, such as wills and insurance policies, off site. 

Certain home construction materials are more durable than others. If you are having your roof redone, install impact resistant roof covering. If you are replacing the siding on your home, use materials that will withstand hail. 

If you lose power, turn off your appliances to avoid a power surge when the power is restored. 

Do not touch electrical wires, appliances or devices. 

Use a flashlight, not a candle, as a source of light. 

Separate damaged property from undamaged property, and prepare an inventory of what has been lost or damaged. 

Take photographs of damaged property. This will assist in the claims process. 

Keep receipts for any clean-up costs incurred (ie. clean-up/restoration contract companies, shop vac rentals, cleaning supplies, etc.).