Hailstorm Safety Tips

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.

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

• 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.

• 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.