Preventing Injuries During a Severe Thunderstorm: Safety Tips for Homeowners

Severe thunderstorms in upstate New York can arrive quickly and create dangerous conditions for homeowners and families. High winds, lightning, hail, flash flooding, and falling trees can all lead to serious injuries if proper precautions are not taken.

While many people focus on protecting property during storms, personal safety should always come first. Knowing what to do before and during severe weather can help reduce risks and keep your household safer when storms move through your area.

Take Weather Warnings Seriously

One of the most important things homeowners can do is pay attention to weather alerts. Severe thunderstorms can intensify rapidly, sometimes producing damaging winds, dangerous lightning, or even tornadoes with very little notice.

Make sure your family has multiple ways to receive emergency information, including:

• Wireless emergency alerts on smartphones
• Local weather apps
• Television or radio updates
• A battery-powered weather radio

Having reliable information allows you to act quickly if conditions worsen.

Move Indoors as Soon as Thunder Is Heard

A common safety saying is: “When thunder roars, go indoors.” If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

The safest place during a severe thunderstorm is inside a sturdy home or building. Avoid remaining:

• On porches or decks
• In garages with open doors
• Under trees
• Near windows or glass doors

Bring children and pets indoors immediately when storms approach.

Stay Away from Windows and Glass

Strong winds and hail can shatter windows unexpectedly. Flying glass can cause serious injuries during severe weather events.

During storms:

• Move family members into interior rooms when possible
• Close curtains or blinds
• Avoid rooms with large windows or skylights

Even if winds do not appear extreme initially, storm conditions can change quickly.

Avoid Electrical and Plumbing Hazards

Lightning can travel through a home’s wiring and plumbing systems. During severe thunderstorms, avoid unnecessary contact with electrical devices and water sources.

Homeowners should avoid:

• Using corded electronics
• Plugging in devices during storms
• Taking showers or baths
• Washing dishes or using sinks unnecessarily

If time allows before the storm arrives, unplug sensitive electronics to reduce the risk of damage from power surges.

Secure Outdoor Areas Before Storms Arrive

Loose outdoor objects can become dangerous projectiles during high winds.

Before severe weather develops, secure or bring indoors:

• Patio furniture
• Grills
• Gardening tools
• Toys and sports equipment
• Umbrellas and decorations

Taking a few minutes to prepare outdoor spaces can help prevent injuries and reduce property damage.

Stay Away from Floodwaters

Flash flooding is one of the leading causes of storm-related deaths. Homeowners should never underestimate moving water.

Avoid:

• Walking through flooded areas
• Allowing children to play in standing water
• Driving through flooded roads or driveways

Water depth and road conditions are often impossible to judge during heavy rain, and even shallow flooding can become dangerous quickly.

Watch for Trees and Power Lines

High winds can bring down tree limbs, utility poles, and power lines without warning.

During and after storms:

• Stay away from damaged trees
• Never approach downed power lines
• Report hazardous conditions to utility companies or emergency services

Always assume fallen wires are energized and dangerous.

Preparation Helps Protect Your Family

Severe thunderstorms are common, but preparation can significantly reduce the chance of injury. Reviewing emergency plans, monitoring weather conditions, and reacting quickly to warnings can help homeowners protect both their families and their property.

A few simple precautions before and during a storm can make a major difference when severe weather strikes. But damage to your home and contents can happen, so make sure your homeowners insurance coverages are adequate and up to date. Questions? Give us a call at Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig and we’ll make sure you have the right insurance for the best price. 

Until next time,

Your SZW Team

SZW Insurance is your Utica area Trusted Choice™ independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.