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Potential Threats of High Winds

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Total views: 0 | Word Count: 595 | Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 | 0 comments

High winds can happen almost anywhere. They are very prevalent across flat land where the wind is not blocked or stopped. High winds can cause a lot of damage and can be very dangerous. Watching for warnings and being aware in high wind situations is key to preventing a serious accident or damage. It is a smart idea to learn more about what to do during high winds.

High winds can easily pick up debris, snap tree branches, cause trees to fall, collapse buildings and structures and more as they blow. All of these things can be harmful and cause damage. Simply any debris lying around can be picked up by wind and become a hazard.

As a storm is approaching high winds tend to occur, but high winds are also able to generate by themselves. Any time there is a 50% chance or higher of high winds occurring, a high wind watch will be issued by the National Weather Service. High wind warnings are issued by the NWS when high winds are almost certain to happen. During cold weather seasons high winds require additional warnings such as a wind chill warning.

Spring and summer seasons are the most favorable for high winds but winds can be expected throughout all four. Most parts of the country will find that spring comes with more high winds than other seasons. No matter what season though, whenever high wind warnings are watches are in effect it is important to be cautious.

If high winds are approaching then you should go outside your home and clean up or secure down any items that could be blown around by the wind. Trees should be inspected for breaks and any broken or fallen limbs should be removed. Lawn furniture and other outdoor items should be taken inside. That includes trash cans, outdoor decorations and potted or hanging plants.

Staying inside and away from windows is the safest thing you can do once high winds hit your area. A major cause of accidents is flying objects hitting windows and breaking them. Another precaution you should take is to avoid driving. Accidents have been caused by high winds, vehicles sometimes go into the ditch, and uncommon but possible is wind causing your vehicle to flip over. Wind also causes visibility problems when dust, rain, or snow are present.

During high winds it is common for the electricity to go out. Fallen trees and downed power lines are a common occurrence. It could take some time for the damages to be repaired, so you should have back up lighting and heat on hand or have other plans of what to do in case it takes a few days for the power to be restored.

Once high winds have passed through your area check your property for any damages and fix them as soon as possible. If high winds return unfixed damages could become dangers, and may inflict harm. Your homeowners insurance policy will most likely cover damages caused by high winds, so make sure to contact your insurance agent right after the storm.

About the Author

Dan Netko is the proud owner of Dan Netko Exteriors and has been offering service to people with MN storm damage repairs for the last 30 years. If your house or business has endured high wind damage find out how Dan Netko Exteriors can save you money and headaches.

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