What to do in the event of a snowstorm, hail, or ice
A snowstorm, hail, or ice in the forecast? Don’t worry! Winters in Québec can be harsh, but you can reduce the risk of damage to your property by staying ahead of whatever the weather brings. This winter, handle mixed weather conditions safely and confidently with our tips and tricks, and learn about home insurance coverage that could help in the event of a winter storm.
When snow turns to ice
It’s no secret—Québec winters are unpredictable. Without warning, snow can become freezing rain, turning every surface into a slippery skating rink. This can upend our daily lives, especially when it causes power outages. How exactly does an ice storm happen?
When a layer of warm air becomes trapped between two layers of cold air, it creates ice. Frozen water particles form in the cold layer on top. When they drop into the warm air in the centre, they melt. This water then falls to the bottom layer of cold air, where it refreezes before hitting the ground and other things. That’s what we call sleet. Freezing rain happens when rain droplets freeze on contact with surfaces that are 0°C or colder.
Both sleet and freezing rain create a layer of clear ice, known as black ice. It makes roads and sidewalks slippery, increasing the risk of injury and significant property damage.
What about hail?
According to Public Safety Canada, hail forms in the core of a thunderstorm, when water vapour condenses in warm, rapidly rising air masses. If it’s cold enough, ice crystals can form in the clouds and increase in size as they move up and down. When the crystals become too heavy, they fall as hail. Damaging hail storms generally happen in Canada only from May to October, but they can also occur in winter.
What to do before a winter storm
When the forecast calls for a snowstorm or cold snap, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of damage to your property and stay safe. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast, and stay tuned to Government of Canada weather alerts for your area.
- Plan ahead, to keep outings to a minimum during the storm. Avoid travelling long distances.
- Prepare yourself and your home for a potential power outage. A home emergency kit should meet your family’s needs for at least three days when the power’s out. Your kit should include drinking water, warm blankets, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, and a lighter or matches.
- Stock up on food, medicine, personal hygiene products, etc.
- Draw up an emergency plan for your family.
- Have backup lighting and heating. If you plan to use a gas-powered generator, use it outdoors only. Ensure that all devices meet the safety standards of the municipality and the manufacturer.
- Shelter your car by parking it in a garage or under a carport, if possible. If you don’t have access to protected parking, park your vehicle away from trees, streetlights, and power lines that could blow over in high winds. Get a shovel with an ergonomic handle and snow removal equipment for your vehicle.
- If the forecast calls for an ice storm, get traction devices for your boots and an antiskid abrasive for the ground, such as salt or sand.
- Read up on your municipality’s emergency procedures in the event of a disaster.
What to do during a winter storm
During a winter storm, safety comes first. Here are some precautions to take during extreme winter weather.
- Monitor the storm’s progress. Keep a close eye on government and municipal alerts.
- Avoid travelling by car. If you absolutely must drive somewhere, check the road conditions on the Québec 511 website or by calling 511. Remember to adapt your driving to winter road conditions to reduce the risk of an accident.
- Tell a loved one where you’re going.
In the event of a winter power outage, follow the Government of Québec’s recommendations. Make sure to:
- Keep your fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
- Avoid using a backup heating system intended for outdoor use inside your home. This will prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, as some devices may release carbon monoxide.
- Shut off the water main, drain your pipes, and pour in plumbing antifreeze.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia, including difficulty moving, loss of awareness, and cold, grey skin.
- Unplug your appliances to prevent damage from a power surge.
- Follow the guidelines for installing and operating your generator and backup heating system.
- If snow and ice build up, clear off your roof, carport, exhaust vents for your appliances (dryer, range hood, air exchanger, etc.), basement windows and window wells, car, and above-ground pool.
After the storm: Snow removal tips
During and immediately after the storm, you’ll need to remove snow that can damage your property and lead to water infiltration. Here are some important things to consider when shovelling.
When to clear your roof: If you notice more than two feet of snow and ice on your roof, it’s time to clear it. It’s best to clear your roof regularly during a storm to avoid heavy accumulation and signs of damage, such as sagging ceilings or interior doors that won’t close.
How to clear your roof: Do so safely by following the recommendations of Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité au travail (CNESST). When in doubt, call in an expert to do the job for you.
How to clear your carport: Clear it from the outside, using a rake. Don’t push the snow off from the inside, as the structure might rip or collapse.
Make sure you’re up to the task: Use proper equipment and wear warm clothing to reduce the risk of injury and frostbite.
Winter weather damage: Covered or not?
Ultimately, the best way to protect your home and property from Québec’s unforgiving winters is to take out home insurance. Generally speaking, damage to your home due to weather events such as heavy snow, hail, or freezing rain is covered by your home insurance.
Promutuel Insurance, THERE to dig you out!
Has a winter storm damaged your property? Our claims adjusters are there to guide you through the compensation process. If no urgent work is required, you can easily file a claim online in just a few clicks in your Client Space.
Important note: Are you planning renovations to prepare for winter, such as replacing your roof or windows? Tell your damage insurance representative so they can make sure your coverage is tailored to your needs.
For more information on our home insurance coverage, contact one of our damage insurance representatives today.
So there you have it! Making the most of winter just takes a little planning—and shovelling.
