Ontario Wind Storm Warning
You may be aware of a major wind storm developing in Toronto, Ontario, most likely to reach the area by Sunday the 24th of February. Environment Canada forecasts damaging winds with frequents gusts of up to 90 to 110 km/h.
During a wind storm, damage to buildings; such as roof shingles and windows, may occur and power outages are also possible.
Please follow the below wind damage prevention tips to protect your property, and call our claims team if you are impacted at 1-800-319-9993.
Wind Damage Prevention Tips
- Pick up around your yard
- Pick up or secure any loose items stored outside or belongings in your backyard as these can become flying debris which can cause damages and personal injury
- Store these items in your home, garage or shed.
- If you have a pool, consider tying down a tarp over your pool to avoid debris entering or damaging your pool
- Check out the trees on your property
- Inspect the trees on your property for loose or damaged branches
- If it's unsafe for you to remove compromised branches on your own, call a professional to get the job done
- Inspect your roof for weaknesses
- It's imperative to routinely have your roof inspected for things like loose or damaged shingles, debris pileups, bare spots, and more
- Poor roofing conditions can allow water to enter your home and cause more wide-spread damages
- It’s safer to hire a professional instead of repairing your roof on your own. If you need and know a contractor or roofer that can assist you, please keep any receipts of their work for your claim
- Check weather stripping on doors and windows
- weather stripping will help keep windy drafts from making their way into your home, it will also help ensure that cold or warm air isn't escaping from your home and prevents water from entering the home
- Make sure your emergency supply kit is up to date
It's a good idea to have the following items in your kit:
- 3 days' worth of water and nonperishable food for each member of your family
- A manual can opener
- A hand-crank or battery-powered radio so you can stay up to date on advisories
- Cash, flashlights, and extra batteries
- Food, water, and toys for your pets
- Infant formula and diapers, if necessary
- Entertainment such as books, magazines, and battery-power electronics
- Medications, a first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and trash bags
- Solar chargers for cell phones and other electronics
- Copies of important documents, like insurance policies, emergency contact info, and IDs
- A warm blanket or sleeping bag for everyone in the family
- At least one change of clothing
- A fire extinguisher
Be sure to store your kit in a place where it's easy to grab and go
- Prepare for power outages
- Ensure your fridge and freezers are well stocked and open only when necessary
- If you have a generator, prepare it for use – including checking fuel and oil levels and ensuring it is in proper running condition, prior to an outage
- Have flashlights and blankets ready
- Fill the bathtub with cold water, in case of extended periods without power
- Ensure all technologies (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc) are fully charged
- Keep non-perishable foods stocked
- Disconnect electronics to prevent electrical surges when power resumes
- Have alternative plans to visit friends, family, a warming centre or a mall to stay warm
- Review your insurance policy
- Most policies policy protect you against a whole host of hazards including windstorms
- Review your coverages with your insurer or broker to understand your coverage, deductibles and any limits which may apply
Important Claims Information
Please note that we may experience high call volumes and wait times in the event of an extreme weather event.
To make a claim at any time please call 1-800-319-9993. You are also able to make a claim online through RSA’s Claims Point™ portal. For more information on claims please visit https://www.rsagroup.ca/make-claim.
Once a claim has been submitted, a claims adjuster will usually contact you within 24-48 hours, however, please note some delays are to be expected.
When a claims adjuster calls, customers should have the following information available:
- Best contact method (email, mobile, work or home phone)
- Address where damages occurred
- A detailed description of the loss and damages where possible
- The name and contact information of any contractor or roofer who has already begun repair to the property
- Customers should hold onto any receipts, photos or other relevant information pertaining to damages
