Calgary is vulnerable to hail. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) defines hail as precipitation in the form of solid ice pellets ranging from small pea-sized to large grapefruit-sized lumps that form inside strong thunderstorm updrafts. Hail can cause severe damage to properties and vehicles.

• Routinely monitor local weather forecasts and Alberta Emergency Alerts for watches and warnings for thunderstorms (which often include hail).
• Put together an emergency kit with essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and batteries to get you through the first few days of an emergency.
• Make an emergency action plan for your household so you know what to do and who to contact in an emergency.
• Review your home insurance policy and ask your insurance provider what your policy covers in the event of damage from natural disasters.
• Secure outdoor items by moving vehicles, patio furniture, and other belongings into a garage or shed, if possible.
• Inspect and maintain your property, especially your outdoor area and roof to ensure protection against strong winds, rain and hail.
• Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed and maintained to limit impacts from hail and winds.

• When hail or thunderstorms threaten, seek shelter immediately in a secure building. Bring your pets inside too.
• Close all windows and doors. Stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights.
• Draw curtains and blinds to help contain broken glass if a window shatters.
• If you’re driving, pull over safely and remain in your vehicle.
• If you’re caught outside with no shelter, crouch down, face away from the wind and protect your head and neck with your arms.
• Watch for flooded areas. Excessive hail combined with heavy rain can block storm drains and create local flooding.
• Stay away from trees, towers, metal fences or poles to avoid lightning strikes.
• Place any cars, RVs, boats, recreational vehicles, patio furniture and other large objects in a covered area, like a shed or garage if possible.

• Clean up and prepare to repair any damage.
• If you are cleaning up after a hail storm, protect yourself by wearing personal protective equipment if required.
• Check on your neighbours friends and family.

• Climate-proof your home for hail
• Hail Smart: Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR)