Preparing for High Winds and Severe Storms

Preparation Tips to Mitigate Risks from High Winds and Severe Storms

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the damage caused by high winds and severe storms. Here are some practical tips to protect your property:

1. Secure Outdoor Items

Loose outdoor objects, such as patio furniture, grills, or garden tools, can become dangerous projectiles in high winds.

• Tip: Store these items in a garage or shed before a storm. For larger items that can’t be moved, secure them with ropes or bungee cords anchored to the ground.

• Trick: Use sandbags or heavy weights to stabilize items like trampolines or outdoor umbrellas.

2. Reinforce Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are vulnerable to wind pressure and flying debris.

• Tip: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood before a storm hits. Ensure doors are reinforced with heavy-duty deadbolts.

• Trick: Apply impact-resistant window film for an added layer of protection without compromising visibility.

3. Maintain Trees and Landscaping

Overhanging branches or weak trees can fall during storms, damaging roofs or vehicles.

• Tip: Regularly trim trees and remove dead branches. Hire a professional arborist to assess tree health.

• Trick: Plant wind-resistant trees, like oaks or hollies, to create natural windbreaks around your property.

4. Inspect and Repair Roofs

A damaged roof is more likely to fail under high winds.

• Tip: Check for loose or missing shingles and repair them promptly. Ensure flashing around chimneys and vents is secure.

• Trick: Consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials for added durability.

5. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Storms can lead to power outages or temporary displacement.

• Tip: Stock an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.

• Trick: Include portable chargers and a battery-powered radio to stay informed about weather updates.

6. Review Your Insurance Coverage

Not all policies cover storm-related damage, such as flooding or wind-driven rain.

• Tip: Contact your insurance agent to review your policy and ensure adequate coverage for wind and storm damage.

• Trick: Keep an updated inventory of your belongings, including photos and receipts, to streamline the claims process.

How Spearpoint Supports You Through the Claims Process

When a storm hits, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. At Spearpoint, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free claims experience. Here’s how we help:

• Personalized Guidance: Our dedicated claims specialists work closely with you to assess damage, document losses, and file your claim promptly.

• Expert Advocacy: We liaise with adjusters and contractors to ensure your claim is handled fairly and efficiently, maximizing your coverage.

• 24/7 Support: Storms don’t follow business hours. Our team prioritizes using technology that helps you navigate submitting a claim and being contacted by a claims rep from the insurance company you're insured through. Our agency's mobile app helps provide you with the phone number(s) and email(s) you will need to get your claim process started.

• Restoration Resources: We connect you with trusted contractors and restoration experts to repair your property quickly and effectively.

At Spearpoint, we believe insurance is more than just a policy—it’s a promise to stand by you when you need us most. Whether it’s helping you prepare for the next storm or guiding you through recovery, we’re committed to protecting what matters to you.

Stay Prepared, Stay Protected

High winds and severe storms are unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can minimize risks and protect your property. By securing your home, reviewing your coverage, and partnering with Spearpoint, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for whatever nature brings.

If you have questions about storm preparation or need assistance with your insurance needs, contact Spearpoint today. Let us help you weather the storm with confidence.

For more information or to review your policy, reach out to our team at 1-800-908-3605 or visit www.spearpointagency.com