Long and Foster Insurance Blog

Winters in the Old Line State can be very severe. Thank goodness for Maryland homeowners insurance to help pay for some of the damages that might be caused by the snow and ice. Cleaning up after a winter storm should be considered a must. Not only can leaving the debris scattered around your yard increase your risk of experiencing property damage when the next squall blows in, but it may also increase the chances of someone being injured on your property and you being held liable. During your cleanup, keep in mind these safety tips to help avoid your own injury:

• Be aware of your body. Frostbite can sneak up on you. Any signs of the condition, such as loss of feeling or lack of color in your extremities, should inspire you to move back indoors right away.
• Hypothermia is another serious risk when working outdoors in freezing temperatures. Excessive shivering, sudden exhaustion, or slurred speech, are just a few signs that something may not be right.
• Clearing the snow off your roof is a necessity, but also very dangerous – if you’re planning to do it yourself, work with a partner, secure yourself to something solid, and wear cleated shoes to help limit your risk.
• Never touch or try to repair a fallen power line. Leave surrounding debris where it is and contact the authorities immediately.

When your house sustains winter storm damage, it is vital you contact your Maryland homeowners insurance agency immediately to help and get your claim underway. With the proper coverage and safety awareness, you can make it through the harsh winter.

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