Black ice: the action plan for a stress-free winter

Ice storms: Your action plan for a stress-free winter

Extreme weather events pose major risks for homes, vehicles, infrastructure and personal safety. But why is ice so dangerous?

When freezing rain turns to ice the moment it touches a surface, it can weigh down trees, power lines and structures, increasing the risk of falling branches, power outages and damage to buildings. On streets and sidewalks, this slippery sheet of ice greatly reduces traction, leading to more accidents, vehicles skidding off the road and, of course, those nasty falls.

Falls are actually a public health concern (french only) and are expected to happen more frequently in the future, especially due to climate change. So if an ice storm is headed your way, here’s what you can do to limit property damage and the costly insurance claims that come with it!

Your home: Tips when an ice storm is about to strike

• Get your home ready for winter: Prevention is your best bet to protect yourself and your property from ice damage. Follow these ten easy steps.
• Inspect your trees: Before winter arrives, look for branches that are too close to power lines and any weak branches, and have them removed. They can break under the weight of the ice and cause damage to your property.
• Check the condition of your roof and gutters: A roof in good condition and gutters that are clear of debris will help water drain properly during mild spells, which helps lower the risk of leaks.
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest setting: This will help your food stay cold longer if the power goes out.
• Have an emergency kit ready: Make sure it includes a first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable food items, a manual can opener, flashlights and different sizes of batteries, among other essentials.
  
• Buy de-icing salt: As the storm continues, remove ice buildup from driveways, stairs and balconies. Then spread de-icing salt.
• Check your basement windows: They should be free from snow buildup, as they are also serve as emergency exits if there’s a fire. Clear snow off your property.
• Keep your pipes from freezing: If the power goes out, keep an eye on the temperature inside your house to make sure water doesn’t freeze in your pipes. Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive damage. Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive damage.
• Use flashlights whenever possible: Candles provide a comforting and cozy light, but use them sparingly to prevent the risk of fire.

Driving: Tips to follow during an ice storm

• Stay off the roads: Don’t drive unless it’s absolutely necessary. 
• Fill up your gas tank before the storm: Then you’ll be able to drive your car if there’s an emergency. Be sure to follow these tips to make sure your car is ready for winter!.
• Remove ice buildup before driving: Chunks of ice flying off your car’s hood or roof while you’re driving can damage your car or someone else’s.
• Check your winter tires: Make sure they’re properly inflated to improve grip on icy roads and reduce the risk of skidding and collisions. Tire pressure often drops in cold weather, sometimes below the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. 
• Adjust your driving: Accelerate slowly, brake early and keep your distance from other vehicles. Remember, driver assistance systems are not foolproof!.
• Park your vehicle under cover: Using a garage or car shelter considerably cuts the risk of damage that can result from falling branches, like a cracked windshield, for instance. Be sure to clear the snow off your car shelter so it doesn’t cave in.

Ice storms: What to do if there’s property damage

It’s clear that prevention is critical to reduce the risk of damage from an ice storm. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” as the saying goes.   

And if ice damages your vehicle despite all your precautions, you may be able to file a claim. However, you need to have All Perils Except Collision or Upset coverage (chapter B3). This optional insurance covers your vehicle against fire, theft, vandalism and glass breakage, as well as specific risks such as hail.

If bad luck strikes your home instead, there are other types of coverage that can help you out: Above Ground Water Damage or Ground Water and Sewer Water Damage are two examples. For more information about these coverage options or about the claims process, feel free to contact us!