Heavy rain and lightning preparation and safety tips for homeowners

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Fast facts
40 million lighting strikes hit the ground each year in the U.S. - CDC 
A flash of lightning can heat the air around it so it’s 5 times hotter than the surface of the sun. – National Geographic
The odds of being struck by lightning in one’s lifetime (estimated 80 years) are 1 in 15,300. – National Weather Service 

Prepare today
Create a family communications plan – Develop a family contact sheet with names, addresses and phone numbers of important contacts including doctors, schools and out-of-state family members. Keep an online backup available. 
Make a home inventory – Insurance claims are typically process faster when an inventory is available.
Stay alert - Sign up for weather alerts.

If a storm is coming
Inspect sump pump – Test the battery back-up.
Park your car in the garage.
Move items inside – Outdoor items such as bikes and furniture may blow around during the storm and cause damage. 
Go inside if you hear thunder – Lightning is close enough to strike when you hear rumbling. Head inside and stay indoors until 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.

During the storm
Stay indoors – Keep away from windows and move to an interior room if possible. Wait to go outside until there is confirmation that the storm is no longer a threat to your area.
Find safe shelter (not under trees) if you are outside.
Remain in your vehicle if you are driving ¬  Pull over to a safe location if driving becomes difficult.
Listen to weather updates - Have a battery-operated radio handy in the event of a power outage.
Avoid using electric appliances.
Wait to go outside – Remain inside until there is confirmation that the storm has passed by your area.

After the storm
If there is flooding: 
Clean up pools of water.
Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.
Move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth in the home.
Move items away from damp areas.
Notify our claims team if there is damage 

How to report a claim
Online at www.hanover.com
Prestige claims:877-922-2774
Platinum policy service: 800-799-6977
General claims: 800-628-0250
By mobile app: Hanover mobile

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.