Stay Safe and Prevent Damage During Storm Season

Storm season is here, do not let the weather cause damage to your home!  Preparation is the key to personal safety and securing your home and valuables.  Whether you have to deal with hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, or hail, be prepared for inclement weather by following these tips!

Protect your Home

Prior to storm season, get a licensed contractor to inspect your roof for missing shingles and possible leaks. Think about putting in impact-resistant roofing as a heightened buffer against hail and heavy winds. For extra insulation, apply roofing cement to the edges of shingles with a caulking gun.

Secure Windows

To protect your windows during severe storms, install shutters to prevent pane breakage from flying debris. Make sure to stay away from windows during storms; injuries from broken glass are some of the most common during dangerous weather.

Take Inventory

Make a detailed list of all personal possessions and back it up with photos or video footage. If your property gets damaged as a result of severe weather, you’ll have ample proof of its prior condition when you file an insurance claim.

Inspect Trees and Shrubs

Fallen branches can cause serious damage to your home and property. Keep your trees trimmed, and, if possible, hire a professional to inspect the trees around your house for rotting roots and other non-obvious signs of danger.

Protect Your Basement

Keep your gutters clear of debris, and make sure downspouts are positioned away from your home’s foundation. This is one of the simplest ways to prevent flooding, but there are also professional security companies that offer flood detection services which can alert homeowners to danger before it happens.

Protect Your Family

Have Evacuation Plan

Be aware of your community’s severe-weather warning system, as well as evacuation routes and shelter locations. A home emergency plan is also important – preferably you would have multiple to deal with various harsh weather scenarios. Rehearse and review these plans with your family on a regular basis.

Flash Flood Safety Measures

If you reside in a low-lying area, or near a body of water, head to the highest level of your house when heavy rains occur. If you live on the the ground floor, find refuge in a community storm shelter.

Hurricane Safety Measures

Stay indoors and seek shelter in an interior, windowless room, preferably at the lowest level of your home, since winds are stronger at higher altitudes. Make sure to bring food, water, a light source, as well as a cell phone. Wait for official confirmation that the storm has passed before emerging from your safe room.

Prepare for Blackouts

Stock flashlights, batteries, candles, and matches, as well as some sort of manually chargeable radio and cell phone dock. Think about purchasing a backup generator in case of a prolonged blackout.

Store Provisions

Keep extra water and non-perishable foods on hand at all times, enough to sustain you and your family for a minimum of three days.

Courtesy of RealtyTimes.com