Tips

Hail Safety Tips: Essential Guidelines for Staying Safe During Hailstorms

September 15, 2023 · The Clime Team

Last updated: 2023-09-15

Hail safety is crucial when severe storms approach. For the best protection, seek shelter indoors, away from windows, and stay informed about severe weather alerts. Alternatively, if you're on the road, find a safe place to stop and wait out the storm.

Summary

Always seek immediate indoor shelter during hailstorms.
Stay informed with weather alerts and warnings for severe weather.
If caught outside, stay in your vehicle and avoid seeking shelter under trees.
Use resources like Clime for timely updates and environment-specific alerts.

What Indoor Shelter Is Recommended During Hailstorms?

During a hailstorm, your primary focus should be seeking refuge indoors. Here are the recommended guidelines:

Stay Away from Windows: Ensure you position yourself in a central room, away from windows to avoid injury from shattered glass or debris. According to the National Weather Service, "stay away from windows if you are in a severe thunderstorm warning and damaging wind or large hail is approaching" (National Weather Service).
Identify a Safe Room: If available, utilize a basement or an interior room without windows, ensuring you have adequate padding or blankets for additional protection against potential flying debris.
Be Prepared with Emergency Kits: Keep an emergency kit that includes essentials like water, food, flashlights, a first-aid kit, and necessary medications.

What Should Drivers Do When Hail Is Imminent on the Road?

If hail impacts your area while driving, follow these safety measures:

Seek Shelter: If you have time, drive toward a secure shelter, such as a parking garage or covered area. The National Weather Service recommends that "being in a vehicle during severe thunderstorms is safer than being outside; drive to the closest secure shelter if there is time" (National Weather Service).
Keep Windows Up and Stay in the Vehicle: In case you cannot find immediate shelter, keep your windows rolled up and cover your head and body with your arms to minimize injuries from hail.
Avoid Parking Under Trees: Trees can become unstable during storms, increasing the risk of falling branches or power lines. Find an open area away from tall structures instead.

Understanding Hail and Its Dangers

Hail is a form of precipitation that consists of balls or irregular lumps of ice which can range in size significantly. Understanding the threats posed by hail can aid in better preparation:

Damage Potential: Large hail can destroy crops, shatter windows, and even damage vehicles and homes. It's vital to prepare your property in advance of hail season.
Listen to Weather Alerts: Utilize weather apps, such as Clime, that offer updates and radar images to keep you informed about approaching hailstorms and their severity.

Tips for Protecting Your Property

Protecting your home and vehicle from hail damage may involve some preemptive actions:

Secure Outdoor Items: Move patio furniture, potted plants, and decorations indoors to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm.
Cover Vehicles: If you know hail is expected, consider using blankets or car covers for vehicles parked outside. If possible, always park in a garage.
Assure Roof and Gutter Maintenance: Regularly check your roof and gutters for weak areas or fallible materials that may not withstand hail effectively. This can minimize damage when storms hit.

Emergency Preparedness and Planning Ahead

Proper planning can greatly mitigate the risks associated with hailstorms:

Have a Family Emergency Plan: Ensure all family members know how to respond during severe weather events. Discuss your plan regularly to ensure everyone is prepared.
Stay Informed: Use reliable weather apps like Clime to receive alerts about severe weather forecasts and timely updates about approaching storms.
Local Resources: Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and shelters in your area to have a quick backup plan.

Conclusion: What We Recommend

Always seek indoor shelter during hail and keep your distance from windows and doors.
Stay informed about weather conditions using reliable weather applications.
Make necessary preparations to protect your property before the hail season arrives.
Practice emergency plans regularly with your family to ensure everyone knows their role in a crisis.

By following these guidelines and utilizing tools like Clime for real-time weather updates, you can significantly increase your safety and preparedness during hailstorms.