Preparing for the Storm

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

Being prepared can make weathering the storm easier.

Storm Preparation

Storms used to catch us unaware, and we only had time to react as best we could to what Mother Nature was throwing at us.  Thankfully, with today’s technology, we are usually given some advanced warning of an impending storm system.  While we still are mostly ‘reactionary’ to any storms that may come our way, by taking a few early precautionary measures, we should find ourselves in a better position to weather the storm!

Here are some steps you can take ahead of the storm:

1. Fortify your home. Check your gutters, to ensure they can safely flow water away from your home. Trim any tree branches which may hang too close to your home.  Close any patio umbrellas, or fabric awnings, which could sustain damage in high winds.

2. Sign up for Storm Alerts. Many communities send out text and email alerts during major storms to alert residents before the storm hits.
3. Build an Emergency Kit. Keep a ‘kit’ of basic supplies you may need when sheltering from a storm. Dehydrated food, extra water, portable camp stove, flashlight + extra batteries, a First Aid kit and extra medication are always good basics to keep on hand. Store your kit in an easy to ‘grab&go’ bag, in case you must evacuate your home.
4. Have an Evacuation Plan. In case you must leave your home, know the best route for leaving safely from your home. Have an idea ahead of time of a safe place you may go to in the event of an evacuation.
5. Create a Communication Plan. If you are aware of a major storm event is on its way, be sure to have your cell phones charged up. Make sure family/friend’s phone numbers are entered in to every family members cell phones, so you can contact each other easily. Also, perhaps designate a close friend or another family member outside of your community to be a ‘Primary Contact’ that YOU can check in with to update them, and others who may be concerned about you can call for updates.
6. DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS! Create an Emergency Storm kit just for your pets – extra food, water, perhaps a disposable litter box for cats. Have crates just in case you have to evacuate. And be sure your pets all have collars with the correct contact information, just in case they get away from you during an emergency.

We cannot change the weather, but by taking a few steps ahead of time CAN help a storm pass more easily.  After the storm clears, if you find damage to your home or property, do not hesitate to call upon your Cleaning and Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO today! We can help you get back on your feet after the storm!