High winds can cause severe damage to homes, farms, and businesses—especially in regions prone to severe weather. While Southwestern Ontario might not see prolonged wind events, we are susceptible to tornados and other emergent storms that can catch you off-guard.
Good maintenance is your first line of defence against stormy weather. Keeping your home, farm, or business in tip-top shape and knowing your property inside and out can help you spot trouble before it happens.
While you can’t control the way the wind blows, you can minimize your risk. Here are 7 tips to help you breeze through the next windstorm with confidence.
Secure Loose Outdoor Items
Hold onto your hats – and your patio furniture. High winds can turn unsecured objects into dangerous projectiles. Before bad weather strikes, make sure to:
- Store or anchor patio furniture, grills, and decorations.
- Secure trash bins, garden tools, and lightweight equipment.
- Bring hanging plants or potted items indoors.
Prepare for Power Outages
Don’t be left in the dark – windstorms often knock out power. Preparing for an outage can have you back up and running with minimal interruptions. Consider:
- Keeping flashlights, batteries, and a portable charger on hand.
- Using surge protectors to safeguard your electronics.
- If possible, having a backup generator for essential appliances or equipment – especially for farms and businesses. (Extra: always install generators at least 6 metres - or 20 feet – away from your building to prevent harmful carbon monoxide poisoning).
Maintain Your Roof
Your shingles shouldn’t be mingling with the neighbours. A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against wind damage. Consider:
- Scheduling a professional roof inspection to identify and repair vulnerabilities.
- Trimming tree branches that near your buildings, and that could fall onto your roof.
- Critical: Never climb roofs during storms - 60% of wind-related injuries occur during DIY repairs.
Maintain Your Doors and Windows
“Batten down the hatches” may be a nautical phrase, but it fits here too. It means sealing off open areas before a storm hits – exactly what strong, well-maintained doors and windows can help do. Here’s how to keep them in shipshape:
- Inspect your window and door seals annually, to ensure they’re intact and not letting in drafts or moisture.
- Test and maintain weather stripping around windows and doors to keep wind and water out.
- Be mindful of larger openings, like garage doors and barn doors. Extra reinforcement and new technology can help keep them intact during weather events.
- If your property is out in the open, consider impact-resistant glass for long-term protection.
Maintain Trees and Landscaping
Weak or dead trees often can’t resist a good gust, leading to severe damage. Keeping your property looking its best, can help prevent hazards. Look into:
- Planting wind-resistant trees (like evergreens) as natural windbreaks.
- Pruning branches regularly to reduce wind resistance.
- Hire an arborist to assess and remove any hazardous, out-of-reach branches and limbs.
Create an Emergency Plan
Windstorms often come and go quicker than you can plan. Planning ahead can make all the difference:
- Put together a 72-hour kit based on your unique needs (include water, non-perishable food, and first-aid supplies).
- Charge handheld electronics before the storm arrives.
- Communicate a safe meeting place to your family or your employees if severe weather leads to an evacuation.
Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Not all wind-related damage is covered the same way. Review your policy to confirm:
- How wind damage to your home is covered (e.g., roof damage, broken windows).
- If falling trees or debris that causes damage to your property is covered.
Why Wind Preparedness Matters
At Ayr Farmers Mutual, we pride ourselves in protecting what matters most to you. Taking these preventive steps can help you avoid unnecessary stress, keeping your property—and loved ones—safe.
Need More Tips?
For additional guidance, check out the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s severe weather preparedness tips.
Talk to your Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Agent or Broker today about your insurance coverage, or request a free, no obligation quote on insurance.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your Insurance Broker or Insurance Company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a Licensed Insurance Agent or Insurance Broker for personalized advice and guidance.