Oklahoma Insurance Experts Advise Home Winterization to Prevent Weather Damage

Oklahoma has recently experienced cold and wet conditions marking the start of meteorological winter, prompting insurance experts to highlight preventive measures homeowners can take to reduce the risk of weather-related damage. Freezing rain, snow, and ice can cause significant harm to home exteriors and plumbing systems, potentially leading to costly insurance claims. Annually, snow, ice, and freezing temperatures result in over a billion dollars in insured losses nationwide, emphasizing the importance of winter preparedness. Oklahoma Insurance Department Commissioner Glen Mulready advises that while the optimal time for winterization was approximately 30 days prior, it is still critical for homeowners to take immediate action to protect their properties. Essential steps include cleaning gutters to facilitate proper drainage of melting ice and snow, insulating outdoor water faucets, and trimming tree branches that could pose hazards to roofs during storms. Liability concerns related to falling trees or branches are contingent upon the tree's condition. Homeowners may be held responsible if the tree was dead or neglected, but coverage for damage from healthy trees typically falls under the affected homeowner's insurance policy. Internally, homeowners should verify that heating systems are functioning adequately to maintain a minimum indoor temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent pipe freezing. Additional recommendations from the Insurance Information Institute include educating residents about the location of main water shut-off valves to mitigate water damage from burst pipes, allowing faucets to drip slowly, using space heaters in vulnerable areas, and keeping cabinet doors open beneath sinks. The institute also stresses the importance of functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors due to increased risk of these hazards in winter. For those planning extended absences during freezing weather, it is advisable to arrange for a trusted neighbor or professional to monitor the home or drain the water system to avoid pipe damage. The Oklahoma Insurance Department provides further winter weather preparedness guidance on its website, underscoring the value of proactive risk management for homeowners facing seasonal cold threats.