Storms can come anytime, but the period from June to November can bring more severe storms. Historically, the season most dangerous to US residents is the Atlantic hurricane season. Storm preparedness is crucial in protecting your family and home from these devastating events. Below we will touch on some ways to prepare.
Know Your Region
Knowing your area's risk for hurricanes or severe weather is essential. Even if you don't live on the coast, your family may still need to take precautions. Many places are in the path of the lingering effects after a storm makes landfall. Research and reach out to people in your neighborhood to find out how wind, water, rain, and tornadoes have affected the area in the past. Even inland, there are many risks when a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall.
Keep Documents Up to Date
The last thing you want to be worried about when a storm is imminent is paperwork. Know when your personal and home insurance policies need to be renewed, and do it on time. Keep your ID current and make digital copies of social security cards, insurance cards, and other personal documents. A digital file of these will ensure you can access valuable information even if the worst happens.
Prepare Your Home
Active home and property maintenance is the best prep for the storm season. Some preparation ideas include removing trees at risk of falling on the home. Repair or replace a faulty roof. Keep gutters debris-free and clear clogged drains. Consider installing hurricane shutters if you live in an area frequently hit by severe storms. When a storm is on its way, residents should bring in outdoor furniture and secure any items that could blow away.
Have a Plan
The entire family's knowledge of the plan for a disaster is vital. Listen to warnings and follow recommendations if an evacuation order is issued. Learn the best evacuation routes from home, school, daycare, or workplaces. Find out if your workplace has a plan to continue operations if a natural disaster occurs. Have a destination where you can stay during a severe weather event or locate shelters if necessary. If you have pets, emergency plans should also be in place for them.
Gather Supplies
If it is safe to weather the storm from home, have supplies on hand. Highly sought-after items such as generators, flashlights, batteries, and food items often sell out in the days leading up to a storm. These items usually take a while to make it back to the shelves. It is a good idea to plan to lose power for several days. Stock up on shelf-stable food, medications, pet supplies, candles, and other things that will help keep you safe and as comfortable as possible in the days following a severe weather event. Have a radio to keep up to date with emergency information. Back-up charging packs for phones and other electronic devices will help ensure you can keep in touch no matter how long the power is out.
After a storm lands, first responders and essential workers will quickly be called to begin rescue and restoration efforts. Keep these men and women safer by preparing yourselves and your home before bad weather hits. Poor storm preparedness can put many lives at risk.