Hail is a common weather phenomenon in areas prone to thunderstorms. Even if it never snows, you may experience the falling balls of frozen water pelting everything below. No matter where you are when a hailstorm occurs, it can be stressful and dangerous. Here are some safety tips for what to do if you're caught in a severe hailstorm:
If You're Inside
Inside a building is the safest place to be during a hailstorm. Even large hail stones aren't powerful enough to break through rooves, though they can crack or break windows. To stay safe, move away from windows or glass doors. Close drapes or curtains to prevent broken glass from spreading into the home if a window breaks. Make sure any pets or small children are inside and accounted for and wait for the storm to cease.
If You're Outside
If you're caught outside when a hailstorm begins, do your best to get inside or under shelter. However, avoid seeking shelter under trees, as hail is often accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms that can increase the risk of falling branches. When getting to shelter, protect your head with anything you might have--the more solid, the better. Even a jacket or backpack can soften the blow of a heavy hailstone and help prevent serious injury.
If You're Driving
Encountering a hailstorm while driving is common, and while the car itself will protect you from hail, there are important safety precautions to take. If you're in a moving car, pull over safely to wait out the storm. Falling hail can hinder visibility and also make other drivers behave erratically, so the best thing you can do is stay off the road until it passes. If you can, situate yourself toward the center of the car, away from the windows. Most modern cars are equipped with safety glass to reduce the risk of shattering, but it's still a good idea to shield your head and eyes from the risk of broken windows.
Hail is a fascinating natural occurrence, but one that can pose serious threats if you're caught unprepared. Remember these key tips to keep yourself safe in case you encounter a hailstorm.
About the Author
Marsha Charles
Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018.
I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.
Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022.
Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.
