Preparing Your Home for Severe Weather

11/26/2024 (Permalink)

Severe weather, such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, and blizzards, can strike anytime, often without much warning. While we can't control nature, we can take proactive steps to protect our homes and loved ones from the devastating effects of extreme weather. Proper preparation helps minimize damage and ensures your safety during a storm. We'll explore practical tips to help you prepare your home for severe weather. 

Create an Emergency Kit 

A well-stocked emergency kit is one of the first and most crucial steps in preparing for severe weather. Your kit should include: 

• Non-perishable food and water (at least 3-5 days' worth)
• First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics, medications)
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Portable phone charger
• Weather radio to stay informed
• Essential documents (ID, insurance policies) in a waterproof bag
• Warm clothing, blankets, and towels
• Sanitation items (wet wipes, toilet paper, garbage bags)

Store your kit in an easily accessible place to quickly grab it in an emergency. 

Clean Your Yard and Trim Trees

Strong winds during severe weather can turn everyday yard debris into dangerous flying objects, posing a risk to your home and safety. Overgrown trees, particularly with dead branches, can become hazardous if not properly maintained. Regularly trim tree branches too close to your home and power lines to mitigate these risks. Additionally, take some time to clear your yard of loose objects, such as lawn furniture, gardening tools, and children's toys, which can quickly become airborne and cause damage to your home or neighboring properties. 

Install a Backup Power Source

Power outages are a consequence of severe weather, and they can last for extended periods, leaving you without lighting, heating, cooling, and refrigeration. Consider installing a backup generator to minimize the disruption caused by power loss. A generator will ensure you can maintain essential systems in your home, even when the power goes out. It's crucial to have the generator installed by a professional to ensure it's in good working order before a storm hits. Always follow safety protocols when using a generator, particularly when preventing carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur if used in an enclosed space.  

Prepare Your Plumbing for Cold Temperatures

Winter storms can cause pipes to burst in areas prone to freezing temperatures. Prevent water damage by: 

• Insulating exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. 
• Draining outdoor houses and shutting off water to exterior faucets to prevent them from freezing. 
• Letting faucets drip during freezing weather to keep water flowing and prevent pipes from freezing. 

Review and practice this plan with everyone in your household so that everyone knows what to do when severe weather strikes. 

Stay Informed with Weather Alerts 

Lastly, staying informed about severe weather is the best way to be prepared. Sign up for weather alerts from local authorities or download apps that provide real-time information on weather conditions in your area. A weather radio is also essential, especially during power outages, as it can provide constant updates on weather conditions and emergency instructions. Pay attention to local advisories, including evacuation orders, shelter-in-place recommendations, and other alerts that may be issued. 

Choose SERVPRO of Parsippany/Montville for Storm Damage Restoration

Storm damage can still occur even if you implement all the above tips. SERVPRO Team Luzzi provides 24/7 emergency damage restoration for water, fire, and storm damage. Even if you do everything right, it can still happen. Call us today to get started and learn more about our damage restoration services.