3 Storm Preparation Tips

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Severe storms can leave severe damage

Severe storms, such as hurricanes, often come with a risk of hail, lightning, high winds and flood water. These three storm preparation tips can help you minimize the amount of storm damage that occurs to your home.

3 Ways to Prepare for a Storm

1. Make an Evacuation Plan

Whether it is a large hurricane or flash flooding, rising waters may prompt authorities to order evacuations. You need to have a plan in place in case you need to escape a flooded building or leave your home on short notice. Select a meeting place in Pocatello, ID, so that if members of your household are separated you can reconnect. If you have pets, research pet-friendly storm shelters in your area or make alternative plans for them.

2. Secure Property Outside Your home

If you are expecting high winds or flood water, secure property outside your home to avoid damage from items that could get blown around or may wash away. Trim any large trees and shrubs to reduce the chance of damage from falling limbs. Bring property such as potted plants, patio furniture, toys and bikes inside. Consider protecting outdoor property that can not be moved with burlap or blankets secured with rope.

3. Store Important Documents Off-Site

A restoration company may be able to save some documents that have water damage, but it is best to avoid the damage in the first place by storing documents, such as financial papers, insurance policies, birth certificates, marriage licenses and legal papers, in a safe location off-site, such as a safety deposit box. Consider also moving high-value items, such as jewelry, to a safety deposit box or another secure storage area.

Once flood water arrives, you may not have much time to safely evacuate your home. Having a plan in place ahead of time can help your family stay safe and reduce the amount of damage that occurs to your property.