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Preparing for a Windstorm

Severe wind can cause power outages and loss of heat. Here are some tips on how to help handle an outage during a storm.

Before the windstorm

  • Set your refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Food will be preserved longer if power goes out.
  • Check flashlights and portable radios to ensure they are working.
  • Be sure to have extra batteries on hand.
  • Fully charge electronics, including cell phones, tablets, and laptops.
  • Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are working correctly and have fresh batteries.
  • Prepare generators and other alternative heating supplies. Start them to ensure they are working.
  • Make sure you have a back up for your sump pump.
  • For those with well water, fill your bathtub with water to help replace the water after flushing.
  • Get out extra blankets, coats, hats and mittens.

During the outage

  • Check with your power company for updates. Many have outage maps and information on their websites.
  • Use 9-1-1 for true emergencies only.
  • Use flashlights, instead of candles, as much as possible.
  • Take safety precautions when using a generator. Don’t run generators indoors where carbon monoxide can cause harm.
  • Dress warmly, in layers.
  • If you lose your heat, close the doors of unused rooms and place towels under the doors. At night, cover windows with shades, extra blankets, or sheets.
  • Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from surges when power is restored.
  • After the outage be careful around downed power lines. Assume they are live and never touch them or drive over them.
  • Throw away foods that have been exposed to greater than 40 degree temperatures for more than two hours.
  • Safely put back all items, such as flashlights, batteries, candles, generators, to have them ready for the future.

We’re here for you

Remember, Walsh Duffield is always here for you in the event of a claim. If you experience property damage during the storm, make sure to take pictures, document, itemize and make any necessary repairs to protect the property from further damage. Our Walsh Duffield emergency team is available at night, on weekends, and during holidays – if you have an emergency claim,  call 716-853-3820 ext. 7355.

For more information on reporting a claim, or to view a list of restoration companies who can help you with repairs, click here.

Sources: Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, The Hanover Risk Management

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