This site is operated by a third party, not by Costco. Use of this (and any destination sites you reach through this site) is subject to the site's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy rather than those of Costco.
CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance, has changed its name to American Family Insurance. No action is needed by you. Please see our FAQ for quick answers to common questions.
Get an edge on the storm when wind and hail strike
Storm safety questions are many: When severe weather strikes, is it better to have your curtains or blinds open or closed? What should you do if you are in your vehicle? How long is it safe to stay outdoors during a storm? We understand. If severe weather is heading your way, be sure you're properly prepared. View this infographic to learn precautions you can take to prevent wind damage and hail damage.
Storm safety: top takeaways
- Park vehicles inside or under an overhang.
- Go inside. Close doors and windows. Move to an interior room.
- Watch for downed power lines when skies clear.
Storm safety guide: If severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or hurricanes are in the forecast, take these precautions to help stay safe from wind and hail.
Before:
- Bring family members and pets inside your home and park all vehicles inside a garage or underneath an overhang.
- Move patio furniture and outdoor items inside a garage or basement to prevent them from being damaged by potential wind and hail.
- Keep an eye out for telltale signs of severe thunderstorms such as darkening skies, flashes of lightning, rumbles of thunder and heavy rain.
- Have a radio nearby to track the progress of the storm and listen for updates on wind speeds and hail sightings.
During:
- Close all doors and windows as well as any blinds, shades or curtains. This extra preventative measure will help if winds blow debris through your windows.
- Move away from windows, doors and exterior walls to an interior room of your home. That way, you’ll be safe if your windows shatter.
After:
- After a strong windstorm, be mindful of faulty gas lines and downed power lines. If you’re unsure about a wire, assume it is active and dangerous, and call the authorities.
- Watch out for broken tree limbs and other debris, and avoid walking near hazardous items that have fallen.
- We are ready to help if your home has been damaged by wind or hail. Call us to get a quote or for claim assistance.
Tools & resources
Explore our tools and smart tips.
American Family Insurance is our brand name. Auto policies are underwritten by American Family Connect Property and Casualty Insurance Company, American Family Connect Insurance Company, or Midvale Indemnity Company, Madison, WI. Property policies are underwritten by Homesite Indemnity Company, Homesite Insurance Company, Homesite Insurance Company of California, Homesite Insurance Company of Florida, Homesite Insurance Company of Georgia, Homesite Insurance Company of Illinois, Homesite Insurance Company of New York, Homesite Insurance Company of the Midwest or Homesite Lloyd's of Texas, Boston, MA. American Family Connect Insurance Agency, Inc., places policies with related and unrelated companies. In Texas, certain property coverages may be underwritten by Ranchers & Farmers Mutual Insurance Company. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its products. Products, pricing, discounts, benefits, and availability vary by state and may be subject to change. Exclusions apply.
Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. is not licensed in New York state. Insurance products are not obtained through the Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. in New York. Costco Wholesale, Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not underwrite insurance, pay claims or guarantee any of the products or services. Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. (CIA), a licensed insurance agent, may receive compensation.
This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. We do not make any guarantees or promise any results based on this information. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites that may be linked in this article. This article does not afford, offer, or guarantee any coverage.
Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. is not licensed in New York state. Insurance products are not obtained through the Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. in New York. Costco Wholesale, Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not underwrite insurance, pay claims or guarantee any of the products or services. Costco Insurance Agency, Inc. (CIA), a licensed insurance agent, may receive compensation.
This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. We do not make any guarantees or promise any results based on this information. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites that may be linked in this article. This article does not afford, offer, or guarantee any coverage.