7 Tips for Preparing for a Severe Storm

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

A storm can provoke several damages in your Roanoke Rapids, NC, home.

When the weather radar shows that a storm will be blowing through Roanoke Rapids, NC, preparation is vital. Although you can't control the storm's trajectory or strength, you can prepare your environment to be ready. This preparation can drastically minimize storm damage. Next time bad weather is forecasted, put these storm tips into action to keep your family and home safer.

1. Prepare an Emergency Plan

Having a written plan can help everyone in your family stay on the same page when an emergency happens. Identify evacuation routes and choose an emergency meeting location close to your home. Make sure everyone knows the phone numbers of emergency contacts.

2. Create an Emergency Supply Kit

You may have to evacuate your home without much warning, so it's helpful to have an emergency kit ready to grab at a moment's notice. You can make an individual kit for each person in your family (e.g., a backpack of supplies) or a larger kit with everything for the family. The kit(s) should include first aid supplies, prescriptions, and other necessary medications, bottled drinking water (i.e., one gallon per day per person), nonperishable food, a non-electric can opener, battery-powered flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, phone chargers and charged power banks, cash and credit cards, and essential documents, such as identification and medical and bank information.

3. Enable Weather Alerts

If the power goes out, or you're sheltering in place, you may not have access to a TV or computer. A helpful way to keep up with the storm information is by having a weather app on your phone. You can enable severe weather alerts, get real-time information and storm tips, and track the storm via the weather radar.

4. Back Up Important Data

You should always keep important data on your computer backed up on at least one other source. Backing up to the cloud is the most secure backup you can get; if your computer is damaged, it won't be affected. There are many cloud-based free services, and to make it better, they're accessible from anywhere with internet access.

5. Check the Property

Checking your outdoor property before a storm can avoid a lot of potential damage. Put lawn furniture, flower pots, bicycles, or anything else that could blow away or become projectiles away. Also, close umbrellas and awnings, which could blow away or tear during high winds.

6. Inspect the Roof

Before the storm arrives, inspect the roof for loose or missing shingles or other damage. Making necessary repairs now can prevent roof leaks during a heavy downpour or more severe harm. If you experience a leak or flood, water damage restoration professionals can help mitigate the loss.

7. Know Where to Turn Off Utilities

All adults and appropriate-age children should know where all the utility shut-offs are at your home. They should also understand when and how to turn them off. Sometimes shutting off water and gas mains can mitigate some of the loss during harsh weather. It's also beneficial to know how to override electronics, such as the garage door if the power goes out.

These seven storm tips can keep your family and your property as safe as possible from a severe storm. Begin preparing today for the possibility of storm damage in the future.