How To Get Ready for Storm Season

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Get Ready for Storm Seasons by following These Tips. If you have more questions, just contact us.

Every area has its own storm season. Some people experience heavy snow and ice while others have to watch out for damaging winds and hail. Flooding is often a factor during a storm no matter where you live, though. When storm season approaches in Pueblo, CO, there are a few things you can do to get ready.

Prepare Your Home

Your main goal in getting your home ready is to secure it so that you prevent as much flood damage as possible. A solid flood maintenance checklist will include inspection and repair of several areas of your property:

• Trim trees and shrubs to get rid of branches that can easily break off
• Install storm windows or shutters
• Seal all openings around doors and windows
• Check the roof for damage or weak spots
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Inspect the foundation for fissures
• Insulate pipes

It is likely that many of these things are already on your regular maintenance to-do list, but they are especially important when you're expecting a flood. The stronger defense your home has against leaks, the lower the chance that you will have to have major repairs after the first major storm passes.

Stockpile Necessities

Whenever there is a strong weather event, services that typically function smoothly can be disrupted. Ice or heavy winds can break power lines, causing your home to lose electricity. Additionally, pipes may freeze if temperatures stay too low for too long. In addition to flooding concerns, you may also have to find alternative ways to keep your family warm and fed.

Start with water and food. You should have a three-day supply of drinking water for every family member as well as shelf-stable food that you can prepare without the use of your appliances. Keep your flashlights with extra batteries and a tool kit handy. If any family member needs regular prescriptions, make sure you keep them in a safe, dry place that you can access easily. Finally, make sure that your first aid kit is up to date and fully stocked.

Compile a List of Emergency Numbers and Inventory

It's always a good idea to have emergency numbers listed in a prominent location in your home, but it's vital during a storm. It's not hard to remember 911, but other people you may need to contact include storm damage mitigation experts, your family doctor or pediatrician and your insurance provider. That way, if there is damage or you need medical advice, you can reach them via landline if your cell phone dies.

You should always keep a running inventory of the items in your home and the cost it would take to replace them. It's smart to store an electronic copy in a secure location online so that even if the original list is destroyed in a storm, you still have access to it. This information is crucial for filing an insurance claim if covered items are damaged.

You can't control the weather, but you can do everything in your power to prepare for it. By checking things off your pre-season maintenance list, you may be able to save your home from the effects of major flooding.