How to protect your car during severe weather

While you can’t control when or where a hurricane, windstorm, or flood, will hit, the best way to minimize potential damage is to be prepared.

When a major storm is coming, stay informed by following NOAA Weather radio or your local news channels for updates. In addition, make sure to obey all orders if requested to evacuate by the authorities. Follow these steps to keep your car protected.

• Park in your garage or carport: Park your car against the doors to keep them from buckling inwards and potentially blowing them off the tracks. Place a heavy blanket or area rug over the car, and remove hanging objects from the garage.
• Do not park under trees, power lines, or in low lying areas: If you do not have a garage, move your car to higher ground or park it tight against the house to provide some deflection of wind away from your car. A tight fitting car cover may also provide some protection. Additionally, you may want to consider a storage facility that is not located in a flood area.
• Fill your gas tank: Aim to do this well in advance of the storm to avoid long lines and possible gas shortages. During an evacuation, routes can become congested and you may have long waits in traffic. And remember, gas pumps will not operate without electricity.
• Keep emergency supplies in your car: Pack booster cables and tools, tire repair kit/spare tire, matches, flashlights, shovel, and traction mats.
• Check your insurance: Check to see if flood or storm damage is covered under your policy, and keep a copy of your auto insurance with you, preferably in a waterproof container.

• Use caution when driving: Avoid driving on coastal or low-lying roads since flooding can occur with no warning.
• Don’t drive through flooded roads: It is often difficult to accurately judge the water level, and you could easily damage the engine and stall your car.
• Stay away from fallen power lines: If you are in a car that is hit by fallen wires, do not go outside. If you must leave, never touch the car and the ground at the same time.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Look out for fallen lines, debris on the roads, and other hazards. Make sure you have a spare tire with you in case you unexpectedly hit any debris.
• Drive with caution: Pay attention to any missing signs or broken traffic lights. Also be cautious of any moving water before driving through it as the current could carry your car away and possibly trap you inside.
• Inspect your car: Wash any debris from your car and take photos of any damage in case you need to report a claim.