High Wind Safety Rules

High wind events:

A high wind warning is issued when sustained winds of 40 mph or greater or gusts to 58 mph or greater are expected.  While high winds are commonly associated with severe thunderstorms, hurricanes and nor'easters, they can also occur as a result of differences in air pressures, such as when a cold front passes across the area. High wind events can cause downed trees and power lines, flying debris and building collapses, which may lead to power outages, transportation disruptions, damage to buildings and vehicles, and injury or death. Taking preventative action and knowing what to do during these weather events can help keep yourself, your loved loves and your home safe.

Preparing for high winds

Secure your property:

In advance of any storm, be sure your property is secure. Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures, loose roofing materials and objects in yards, patios, roofs or balconies that could blow away. If a wind  warning is issued consider the following:

• Tune in to local weather forecasts and bulletins issued by the National Weather Service on the web, NOAA Weather Radio or local TV and radio stations.
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors.
• Bring in unsecured objects from patios and balconies and secure outdoor objects such as lawn furniture or garbage cans that  could blow away and cause damage or injury.
• Be prepared for a possible power outage.  Use these tips!

Where to be during high wind events:

The safest place to be during high wind events is indoors.  Get inside a sturdy building and go to the basement, or the lowest level. Then, move to a small, interior, windowless room. Stay away from glass windows and doors

If you're stuck outside during high winds:

• Take cover next to a building or under a shelter. 
• Stand clear of roadways or train tracks, as a gust may blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
• Use handrails where available on outdoor walkways and avoid other elevated areas such as roofs without adequate railing.
• Watch for flying debris.
• Tree limbs may break and street signs may become loose during strong wind gusts.
• Keep an eye toward nearby balconies for loose objects that may fall

Downed Power Lines

Call to report a downed power line:

Call your local utility emergency center and to the police to report a downed power line.  Do not try to free lines or to remove debris yourself.  Avoid anything that may be touching downed lines, including vehicles or tree branches. Puddles and even wet or snow-covered ground can conduct electricity in some cases. Warn others to stay away.

Don't Become a Second Victim:

If you see someone who has been shocked who may be in direct or indirect contact with a power line, do not try to touch them. You may become a second victim. Get medical attention as quickly as possible by calling 911.

If a power line falls on your car, stay inside the vehicle:

Take care not to touch any of the metal frame of your vehicle. Honk your horn, roll down the window and warn anyone who may approach of the danger. Ask someone to call the police. Do not exit the car until help arrives, unless it catches on fire. To exit, open the door, but do not step out. Jump, without touching any of the metal portions of the car's exterior, to safe ground and get quickly away.

Driving during high winds:

Keep both hands on the wheel and slow down

• Watch for objects blowing across the roadway and into your path.
• Keep a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes as strong gusts could push a car outside its lane of travel.
• Take extra care in a high-profile vehicle such as a truck, van, SUV, or when towing a trailer, as these are more prone to be pushed or even flipped by high wind gusts.
• If winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, get onto the shoulder of the road and stop, making sure you are away from trees or other tall objects that could fall onto your vehicle. Stay in the car and turn on the hazard lights until the wind subsides.

Learn more from the National Weather Service!