Hail: Mitigation
Severe weather watches and warnings often provide ample time to prepare for a hailstorm. When there is a threat of severe weather, property owners should move vehicles and other valuable moveable objects to locations that provide shelter from falling hail. Farmers should move livestock and machinery to sheltered locations. If a hailstorm is approaching, take shelter inside. Close drapes, blinds, and window shades inside your house to reduce the likelihood of shattered glass being blown inside. Then, move to an interior room on the lowest level and stay there during the storm. After a storm, property owners should complete a thorough examination of property to identify and evaluate possible damage. Homeowners should take particular care when inspecting roofs for hail damage. In some cases, damage may not be immediately obvious but could result in the development of roof leaks, and these could cause damage that is more extensive at a later time. When constructing a home or business, considering using impact-resistant roofing materials. The Underwriters Laboratories' UL 2218 standard provides a rating for the ability of different types of roof coverings to withstand forces comparable to those associated with hailstones. Information about roofing options is provided in the Institute for Business & Home Safety's publication Is Your Home Protected From Hail Damage?: A Homeowner's Guide to Roofing and Hail. The best protection against financial loss from hail is to purchase insurance. Homeowners and auto insurance should include coverage for hail damage. Farmers should invest in crop insurance to protect against catastrophic loss.
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