- Understand what your insurance policy covers. There are a variety of things a standard policy covers, such as vehicle crashes, wind-related damage, and burst pipes. Depending on the insurance policy you bought, it may not cover everything.If you experience flooding during a winter storm, it’s not covered under a standard homeowner’s or renter’s policy. A separate policy must be purchased through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program. Talk to your insurance agent if you have questions about your policy.
- Consider alternate heating sources. If you live in an area, that’s frequently hit with storms or power outages, consider purchasing a generator or an additional heating source that doesn’t rely on electricity. Consult with your agent as not every heating source is covered by insurance.
- Understand what the different advisories and warnings mean. Last winter, a few storms changed course leaving Southeast Wisconsin with little snow fall. Nevertheless, you should know the difference between a winter storm watch, winter storm warning, blizzard warning, etc.
- Winterize your home. Take advantage of those nice fall days to make sure your home is ready. Consider a furnace inspection and chimney cleaning yearly. Once the winter season begins, keep an eye on your roof. Heavy snow can lead to collapse. Freezing and thawing temperatures can lead to ice dams.
- Winterize your vehicle. Consider taking your car to your local mechanic for a checkup or to make that repair you’ve been neglecting. If you’re taking a longer road trip, share your travel details with family and friends and take a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food. Lastly, don’t forget extra medication.
- Always ask yourself … Every day we encounter risk. The goal of insurance is to transfer risk and protect yourself and your property. Insurance, however, can’t protect you from everything. Severe storms and other weather conditions can put us more at risk. Ask yourself:
- Does it make sense to drive too fast for conditions?
- Does it make sense to ignore alerts and warnings?
- Does it make sense to set your heat low to save on energy costs?
- Does it make sense to shovel snow yourself instead of asking for help?
Sandmire Insurance is La Crosse’s independent insurance agency, we provide the best local customer service and rates to drivers from the La Crosse and surrounding areas including Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, and more, for a car insurance quote contact one of our insurance agents by calling (608) 782-2060, filling out our online insurance quote form, or stoping by the office at 605 4th St S, La Crosse, WI 54601
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Source: http://www.thesilverlining.com/westbendcares/blog/six-tips-to-keep-you-safe-during-the-next-big-winter-storm; Six tips to keep you safe during the next big winter storm -written by Scott Stueber
