Preparing for Storm Season: Tips and Resources

8/5/2024 (Permalink)

As storm season approaches, it's essential for homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their properties and ensure the safety of their families. Storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding, which can cause significant damage if proper precautions aren't taken. Here are some practical tips and resources to help you prepare for storm season and keep your home safe.

1. Secure Loose Items

High winds can turn loose outdoor items into dangerous projectiles. To prevent damage to your home and property, secure or store away any loose items in your yard, such as:

Patio Furniture: Move chairs, tables, and umbrellas inside or secure them to prevent them from being blown away.
Garden Tools and Equipment: Store tools, hoses, and other equipment in a shed or garage.
Decorative Items: Remove or secure garden ornaments, wind chimes, and potted plants.

2. Inspect and Maintain Drainage Systems

Proper drainage is crucial during storm season to prevent water accumulation and flooding. Take the following steps to ensure your drainage systems are in good condition:

Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves, debris, and dirt from gutters to ensure water can flow freely and away from your home.
Check Sump Pumps: Test your sump pump to ensure it’s functioning correctly and consider installing a battery backup in case of power outages.
Inspect Grading: Ensure the ground slopes away from your home to direct water away from the foundation.

3. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Overgrown trees and shrubs can pose a threat during storms. Trim branches and remove dead trees to reduce the risk of them falling on your home or power lines. Hiring a professional arborist can ensure that your trees are healthy and properly pruned.

4. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Having a well-stocked emergency kit can make a big difference during a storm. Your kit should include:

Water and Non-Perishable Food: Enough for at least three days.
Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have working flashlights and extra batteries.
First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.
Important Documents: Keep copies of identification, insurance policies, and contact information in a waterproof container.
Portable Phone Charger: To keep your phone charged if the power goes out.

5. Know Important Contacts

Secure Loose Items

High winds can turn loose outdoor items into dangerous projectiles. To prevent damage to your home and property, secure or store away any loose items in your yard, such as:

Patio Furniture: Move chairs, tables, and umbrellas inside or secure them to prevent them from being blown away.
Garden Tools and Equipment: Store tools, hoses, and other equipment in a shed or garage.
Decorative Items: Remove or secure garden ornaments, wind chimes, and potted plants.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Having a well-stocked emergency kit can make a big difference during a storm. Your kit should include:

Water and Non-Perishable Food: Enough for at least three days.
Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have working flashlights and extra batteries.
First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.
Important Documents: Keep copies of identification, insurance policies, and contact information in a waterproof container.
Portable Phone Charger: To keep your phone charged if the power goes out.

Know Important Contacts

Having quick access to important contacts can help you respond swiftly in an emergency. Keep a list of:

Local Emergency Services: Police, fire department, and medical facilities.
Utility Companies: Power, water, and gas companies for reporting outages or issues.
Insurance Providers: Contact information for your home insurance company.
SERVPRO®: Our team is ready to assist with storm damage cleanup and restoration. Save our contact number to ensure you can reach us when needed.

SERVPRO’s Expertise in Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

When storms hit, SERVPRO is here to help you get back on your feet quickly and efficiently. With years of experience in storm damage restoration, we have the expertise and resources to handle any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians use advanced equipment and proven techniques to restore your home to its pre-storm condition.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

24/7 Emergency Response: We understand that disasters can strike at any time, so our team is always ready to respond to your call for help. Our prompt response time ensures that damage is minimized, and the restoration process begins quickly.
Comprehensive Assessment: Our technicians conduct a thorough inspection of your property to assess the extent of the damage and create a customized restoration plan tailored to your specific needs.
Water Extraction and Drying: We use powerful pumps and industrial-grade dehumidifiers to remove standing water and thoroughly dry affected areas, preventing mold growth and further damage.
Structural Repairs: Our skilled construction team is equipped to handle all types of structural repairs, from minor fixes to major reconstruction projects. We work diligently to restore your home to its original condition, ensuring quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Contents Restoration: We understand that your personal belongings are precious to you. Our team uses specialized cleaning techniques to salvage and restore items damaged by the storm, giving you peace of mind during the recovery process.
Insurance Assistance: Navigating insurance claims can be overwhelming, but SERVPRO is here to help. We work closely with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (614) 261-6666