Six Expert Tips to Weather Winter Storm ‘Knife’

EDMESTON, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Devastating Winter Storm ‘Knife’has wreaked havoc for residents of western New York. Now that the storm has passed, officials will begin to assess the millions of dollars in damage to infrastructure, businesses and personal property.

NYCM Insurance, the Edmeston, N.Y. based property and casualty insurance carrier, suggests six key tips to help residents effectively mitigate the damage to residences and personal property.

"The first priority should always be safety. Residents of affected areas should err on the side of caution before taking any actions that can be potentially hazardous,” said Jeremy Robinson, vice president, NYCM insurance. “While residents deal with the aftermath of the storm, NYCM Insurance offers six key tips to ensure your safety and protect your property.”

1. Keep your roof clear of snow. Rooftop snow removal will help minimize the chances of structural collapse. “One cubic foot of dry snow weighs approximately seven pounds, while a cubic foot of wet snow can weigh 12 to 18 pounds. Unless you are experienced in rooftop snow removal, it is best to hire a professional,” says Robinson.

2. Keep furnace and dryer vents unobstructed. “During a major storm, it can be easy to forget about outside vents for heating and appliances. If safe to do so, homeowners should slowly create a path to these vents, which are found at the foundation of the home, and make sure they remain free from snow and debris,” advises Robinson.

3. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working. According to Mr. Robinson,a functioning carbon monoxide detector is vitally important – especially when snow and debris can block stove venting. “Never use a stove for heat, and always make sure your stove is properly vented, to avoid deadly fumes from entering the home,” he said.

4. Always use proper heating devices. “It is extremely hazardous to use open flames, kerosene lamps or other flammable liquids as a source of heat. If you are using a space heater, remember that it should be used as a temporary heating source and should be turned off if you go to bed for the night,” recommends Robinson.

5. Keep snow away from doors and windows. Doors and windows can easily collapse under the immense pressure caused from snow and ice. “Clear away snow from basement window wells and shovel snow away from the walls of your home as best you can,” suggests Robinson. “Windows that face snow and wind are more susceptible to damage.”

6. Prepare for insurance claims. “Take pictures of damage for insurance claims and keep all of your necessary documentation nearby,” advises Robinson. “The more detail you can provide the claims adjuster, the more efficiently and quickly he or she can process a claim. During a winter storm like this, every second counts.”

NYCM Insurance policyholders who experience storm damage are urged to contact the company as soon as possible to file a claim. Claims can be submitted via phone (800-234-6926), online at www.nycm.com or by emailing claimservices@nycm.com. Policyholders can also submit photos for a claim via the NYCM app, downloadable at www.nycm.com/mobile.

To report a claim, have following information available:

Current policy information
Contact information
Date and time of loss
Description and photos (if possible) of damage

Policyholders who have questions are encouraged to contact their local agent. For a list of agents, visit www.nycm.com or call 800-234-6926.

ABOUT NYCM INSURANCE

NYCM Insurance, headquartered in Edmeston, N.Y., is a property and casualty insurance carrier that has been providing coverage to residents and businesses in New York since 1899. The company offers automobile, homeowner, mobile home, umbrella and commercial policies and is rated A+ by A.M. Best Company. For more information, call 1-800-234-6926 or visit www.nycm.com.