| Before and After a Winter Storm |
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| Before the storm |
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| Protect your home by: |
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- clearing sidewalks and entranceways
- keeping gutters free of leaves and debris, so ice dams do not occur and cause water leakage into your house.
- letting facets drip slowly so water will move and prevent pipes from freezing.
- winterizing your home by sealing windows and doors, and adding extra insulation.
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| Protect your car by: |
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- checking hoses, battery and antifreeze levels.
- keeping gas tank filled to prevent condensation from forming in the tank. Such condensation could cause the fuel line to freeze.
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| Protect your pets by: |
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- cleaning any antifreeze spills and storing antifreeze where pets cannot be attracted to its sweet scent.
- bringing pets indoors, into the house or garage, to provide warm shelter.
- providing plenty of straw or other warm bedding.
- remembering to provide fresh water and ensuring the water does not freeze. Use a plastic dish to prevent the pet's tongue from freezing to a metal bowl.
- checking underneath your car's hood for small animals (like cats) that may have crawled inside seeking warmth.
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| After the storm |
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- Clear sidewalks and entranceways from snow and ice to prevent injury.
- Call your insurance agent to report any damage to your home.
- Photograph any damaged areas before doing anything to them.
- Make temporary repairs only to your home to prevent further damage.
- Keep receipts of all materials bought or services rendered involving repairs.
- Do not make major, permanent repairs until you reach an agreement with your insurance company.
- Avoid downed power lines and contact your local power company to report them.
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| If you have any questions or problems concerning your insurance coverage, contact the Consumer Services Division of the NC Department of Insurance toll-free at 1-800-546-5664. |
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