Severe weather can happen throughout the year. Now that spring has begun, you may think that you’re home free for clear, sunny skies. However, spring can be filled with thunderstorms, tornadoes and floods. The key to experiencing less storm damage is to prepare. While you can’t completely control what’s going to happen during a natural disaster, there are steps you can take that may reduce your chances of experiencing extreme damage in your home.
- Check your local weather forecast often. The more notice you have about approaching severe weather, the more time you have to prepare.
- Learn common weather patterns in your area. Sections of the US experience hurricanes while others are more likely to experience tornadoes. Different severe weather events may have unique preparation needs.
- Sign up for weather warnings to ensure you’re informed about the status of severe weather. Not only is it important to know about an approaching storm as soon as possible, but it’s also essential to know status updates and evacuation notices.
- Meet with your family to create an emergency plan. Every member of your household needs to be included in an emergency plan. Take into consideration members of your family that may need extra assistance.
- Decide on an emergency meeting place. No matter where your family is when severe weather occurs, you can all meet at a safe place. Communication is often more difficult during extreme storms so it’s important to be on the same page beforehand.
- Create an emergency kit that includes food, water, a battery-operated radio and any medication you may need for multiple days. Don’t forget about the needs of your pets!
- Have an emergency drill to practice escape routes, meeting places and your emergency plan. The more you practice your emergency plan, the easier it’ll be to put in place during an actual emergency.
- Do yardwork to trim trees, put away outdoor furniture and secure any items that can become a threat during a severe storm. The fewer items that can be picked up by the wind and cause harm, the better.
- Indoor household preparations include storing important documents in an airtight container and taking photos of your property for insurance purposes. It’s also a good idea to create digital copies of all necessary documents so you can access them from anywhere severe weather takes you.
- Inform those around you who may not be subscribed to weather notifications about storm updates. In addition, check in on those who may not have the ability to fully prepare for severe weather on their own.
The best way to limit damage during severe weather is to prepare beforehand. Severe weather is not always easy to predict far in advance. The sooner you can put the above safety measures in place, the better. ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration Services in Central New Jersey is available 24/7 for emergency restoration services. Contact us at (866) 856-4007 if you experience water or fire damage.
