My friends and colleagues have nicknamed me the Weather Watcher. In fact, a friend texted me recently asking if I was watching out for the weather outlets and I answered back indeed I am. Due to the number of spring storms we have had over the last few years, who could blame any of us? Maybe a better way would be to prepare for the storms and be ready when they happen. So, let’s talk about how to be prepared.
- Inspect Your Roof: Check for loose or damaged shingles and repair them. Secure any loose materials or debris that could become airborne due to high winds.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clean gutters of leaves and debris. This helps prevent water from backing up and causing damage to your roof or foundation.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring indoors and secure outdoor furniture, decorations, or equipment that could blow away.
- Inspect Windows and Doors: Check for any gaps, cracks, or leaks. Seal them with weatherstripping. This includes garage doors, as they are particularly vulnerable. Install bracing kits or reinforce them with additional bolts or braces if needed.
- Backup Power Source: If you have a generator, ensure it is in working order and adequately fueled.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim back overhanging branches and remove dead or weak trees that could potentially fall on your home.
- Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies such as food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents.
- Create a Family Emergency Plan: Discuss and create a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting points, and contact information for family members. Practice the plan with your family so everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
- Review Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for storm-related damage. Consider adding flood insurance if you’re in a flood-prone area. Flood insurance isn’t included on most property insurance policies. Contact your agent if there re any questions.
- Stay Calm and Informed During Storms: During a storm, stay indoors and away from the windows. Monitor weather updates and follow any instructions or warnings issued by the local authorities. Downloading a weather warning app or having a weather radio would help in monitoring pending storms. Be prepared to take immediate action to protect yourself and your family if conditions worsen.
- Initial Steps If Storm Damage Occurs: Document the damage, take photos, take measures to prevent additional damage and contact your insurance company. I will address this in more detail in a later blog.
Preparing your home before storms is essential to minimize damage and ensure safety. Now that you have prepared for these storms, let’s get out and enjoy the beauty around us, make some memories, and turn off the weather channels!
Teresa Coones | FMT Team