Storm season is here: How to prepare before severe weather hits

When Spring weather rolls in, it can bring severe storms, including thunderstorms, strong winds, damaging hail and tornadoes. Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your home and make recovery smoother if a storm hits.

Here are tips to help you get storm-ready:

Be weather aware
Stay informed with real-time severe weather forecasts in your area. Sign up for emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. Monitor local forecasts and warnings so you have time to prepare and move to safety. Consider purchasing a weather radio to stay up to date on alerts without needing Wi-Fi or a power outlet.

Storm safety plans
Review with your family what to do during a severe storm. Identify the safest place to shelter in your home for different storm scenarios. Make a communication plan for times when family members are apart. Check emergency supplies so you can shelter safely if needed.

Evaluate your home
Do a seasonal walk-around to spot vulnerabilities before a storm arrives.

• Check for missing shingles and look for siding that is missing.
• Trim tree branches that could fall during a storm.
• Secure detached structures (sheds, gazebos) and bring in or secure patio furniture and other outdoor items.
• Check gutters and downspouts, and clear gutters in spring and fall to help move runoff away from your home and spot issues.
• Test your sump pump, clear debris and confirm any backup system is working.
• If you’ve had leaks in the past, consider addressing them now before heavier spring rains cause additional damage.

Review your insurance policy coverages
Severe weather is unpredictable, and having the right insurance in place can help reduce stress before, during and after a storm. If it’s been a while since you reviewed your policy, contact your insurance agency owner to confirm your coverage and ask whether endorsements are available to strengthen protection.

Create a home inventory
A home inventory can help support an insurance claim if your home or belongings are damaged. List major items, especially valuables, with descriptions, photos and estimated values. The more detail, the better. To take things a step further, consider recording a video walk-through of your home.

Know how to file a claim
The aftermath of a severe storm can be stressful. Filing a claim quickly can help speed up the process. Contact your agency owner as soon as possible to get started. American Family customers can report a claim:

• Through the MyAmFam app or via MyAccount at amfam.com.
• By texting STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) to receive a link to file a claim from a smartphone (message and data rates may apply).
• By calling 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326), where trained representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To learn more, review coverage options and confirm you have the right protection in place, contact an American Family Insurance agency owner in your area today. They can walk through your options, helping ensure your policy is built to protect what matters most.

# # #

About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.