Storm season can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding. Being prepared can minimize damage and ensure your safety. Not only is it a good idea to have a safety plan that your whole family knows, but there are ways to help prepare your home to minimize damage. Here’s a guide to getting your house ready.
First, you want to understand what tornadoes are. Tornadoes are violent rotating columns of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. They can occur quickly and with little warning. Understanding the risks and signs can save lives.
Signs of a Tornado
- Dark, greenish sky
- Large hail
- A large, dark, low-lying cloud
- Loud roar, similar to a freight train
- Debris or swirling dust near the ground
Creating a Safety Plan
Having a safety plan in place is essential. Discuss it with your family and PRACTICE tornado drills, especially if you have younger ones.
Key Elements of a Safety Plan
Evacuation Route: Know your evacuation routes and where to go if you need to leave your home.
Designated Safe Space: Identify the safest place in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor without windows.
Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies (see below for things to include)
Communication Plan: Establish a way to communicate with family members if separated.
Emergency Kit
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-powered radio
- First-aid kit
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Medications and personal hygiene items
- Important documents in a waterproof container
Utility Safety
- Locate and know how to shut off gas, electricity, and water mains
- Test sump pumps and backup systems
Outside Preparations
Yard Maintenance
- Trim trees and shrubs to remove weak branches
- Secure loose outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, and trash cans
- Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage
Home Exterior
- Inspect roof for loose or damaged shingles
- Check windows and doors for leaks and ensure they are properly sealed
- Secure or repair fences and gates
Flood Prevention
- Consider installing flood barriers or sandbags
- Elevate appliances if in a flood-prone area
Insurance and Documentation
Review Coverage
- Review home insurance policy to understand coverage for storm damage
- Take photos or videos of your property and belongings for insurance purposes
Important Contacts
- Keep a list of emergency contacts, insurance agents, and utility companies readily available
During the Storm
Stay Informed
- Monitor weather reports and alerts
- Follow instructions from local authorities
Safety Measures
- Stay indoors and away from windows
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary
- If flooding occurs, move to higher ground
Post-Storm Actions
Assess Damage
- Document any damage with photos or videos
- Contact insurance company and report damage
Safety First
- Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas
- Use caution when cleaning up debris
And of course, if you have any home issues you want to check, schedule an issue inspection with us at (630)283-2248
