Storms, floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes, oh my! With countless other storms on the news lately, it is more important than ever to be prepared. So how do you protect your home from these environmental aggressors? Read on for tips for preparing your family and home for an impending storm:
Thunderstorms:
With thunderstorms often comes the damaging effects of strong winds and lightning. If you know a storm is approaching, remove any dead branches or overhanging tree branches from the area surrounding your home. This will prevent the wind from knocking these` into your house during the storm. To protect against lightning, make sure your entire house has surge protection, and unplug any unnecessary appliances before the storm.
Flooding:
If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, or if you have a basement that often gets flooded, remove any valuables from this area. Clear the floor of any boxes, papers or furniture that you don’t want to get wet. Also, make sure this area is cleared of plugs or appliances, which can cause electrocution if they come in contact with water.
Hailstorms:
Hail can range from the size of a pea to a grapefruit and can cause major damage to your roof. Protect your home by installing hail-proof shingles with a Class 4 UL rating, which measures the impact resistance of a roofing material. This will be a tricky job to DIY, so be sure to contact a licensed roofing contractor to install the shingles for you.
Hurricanes/Tornadoes:
While hurricanes and tornadoes are two very different weather systems, they can cause similar damage to your home. If your home is at risk during a powerful storm like this, make sure that your entire family has enough food and safety supplies to last at least two weeks. Strong winds and flooding, and even hail can be expected, so follow the steps above to prepare your home. Also make sure that you know where all your valuables and important documents are and that they are in a central location, in case you need to evacuate your home on short notice. Bring inside any outdoor furniture you have, and make sure it is stored in an area that won’t get flooded.
In a more serious and damaging storm like a hurricane or tornado, make sure you monitor the progress of the weather on NOAA, which will provide the most up to date and accurate information for your zip code.
And of course, in any storm it is wise to have a first aid kit handy, as well as flashlights with extra batteries, candles and matches, and a stockpile of packaged foods and water. If you have pets, make sure you have a similar kit for them as well. Map out exit routes in case of any of these hazards listed above, and make sure your entire family has a copy of the emergency exit route and knows the phone numbers to call in case of an emergency.
When it comes to your family’s safety, AROCON is always there for you. For help preparing your roof or exterior home for a storm, contact us today.
