With severe weather and hail predicted, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)® reminds families of the following tips to reduce damage and injury before, during and after a hail storm.  Hail could seem like a minor concern, but hail can cause injury, damage to vehicles and damage to homes like shattered windows, pockmarked siding and damaged or destroyed roof coverings.

Before

• When hail is forecast, close your drapes, blinds or window shades to prevent potential injury from broken glass blowing inside.

During

• Do not try to go outside to protect your property during a storm. Stay indoors until the storm has passed.
• Stay away from skylights, windows and doors.

After

• Verify that you can safely move around outside.  Avoid any broken or downed branches and power lines.
• Check the trees, shrubs and plants around your house.  If they are stripped of their foliage, there is a possibility your roof is damaged.  Dented patio covers, screens or soft aluminum roof vents could also indicate roof damage.
• Cover any broken windows and holes in your roof to prevent water intrusion following hail damage.

For more information on protecting your home from hail storms, view this short hail safety video and visit www.flash.org.