- Power outages can lead to discomfort, food spoilage, and worse.
- Frozen pipes due to extreme cold can burst, causing expensive water damage.
- Ice dams are heavy ice ridges that can form along gutters and eaves and damage your roof.
If you receive an ice storm warning, always follow the guidance of local authorities.
TRAVELING DURING AN ICE STORM IS DANGEROUS
Avoid leaving your home if possible. If you must go out in the storm:
- Exercise extreme caution when driving on icy, snow-covered roads.
- Stay away from downed power lines and tree branches.
- Keep emergency supplies in your car including food, water, a flashlight, and warm clothing.
WHAT TO DO DURING AN EXTENDED ICE STORM POWER OUTAGE
It is not unusual to lose power for a few hours or even a day from an ice storm. Follow these guidelines if you do lose power:
- Close off unused rooms to retain heat in vital areas.
- Use a backup heating source, such as a portable generator (see below) or a wood or coal stove, if possible. Practice proper space heater safety if you use a generator to power one. Do not use your kitchen stove as a heat source.
- Shut off the main water supply and let water drip from all faucets to drain the pipes and help prevent freezing.
TIPS FOR SAFELY RUNNING A BACKUP GENERATOR DURING AN ICE STORM
A generator can help you stay comfortable, power essential appliances (such as a refrigerator or furnace), and help prevent frozen pipes during a power outage. However, generators can also be dangerous if not handled properly.
Permanent Generator Safety
- Ensure the generator is well-maintained.
- Periodically monitor the generator while in operation, and make sure everything is in working order. If not turn the generator off.
Portable Generator Safety
- Store extra gasoline in an ANSI-approved container away from the generator.
- Operate the generator outside in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Turn off the generator and allow it to cool before refueling.
- Ensure your building has working carbon monoxide detectors.
TIPS TO HELP PREVENT ICE DAMS OR REMOVE THEM AFTER THEY APPEAR
Ice dams form as snow repeatedly melts above your attic, flows as water toward the eaves, and freezes again. This thaw and freeze cycle can lead to heavy buildups. Here’s how to deal with ice dams:
- Install heated cables on your roof above the eaves and along the gutters and downspouts to help prevent snow from freezing into ice dams.
- Remove snow from the roof using a roof rake.
- Hire a professional contractor to check the attic's insulation and address any heat loss from the house or building into the attic.
- De-ice the roof using ice melt along the gutters to help prevent refreezing.
- Blow cold air into the attic with an attic fan or box fan.
Prepare for Ice Storm Risks Ahead of Time
A few preventive measures can help you manage your risks during an ice storm or other severe cold weather event. Take action today to prepare for ice storm risks and enjoy added peace of mind when the cold weather rolls in.
If you do experience a loss, you can quickly start your claim online or with the MySelective mobile app. You may also call 866-455-9969 or contact your agent.