As hurricane season begins to pick up, it is important that you prepare your family and home for the coming storms. Hurricane preparedness is especially important during these months. There are many things you can do to prepare yourself, your family, and your home for the major storms expected during this season including basic maintenance of your home, property, and standby generator. Check out the 4 things you can do to prepare your home for the stormy months to come.
Prepare Yourself And Your Family
Depending on where you live, the risk you have for damage from a storm will be different. The first step in preparing for a storm is the understand your risk so you can begin to prepare appropriately. If you know that you live in an area prone to flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes, or other forms of severe weather, you should prepare your home accordingly to combat the possibility for damage.
Once you have figured out what kind of plan you’ll be needing, ensure that everyone in your home knows and understands the plan. Make sure that all members of your household are aware of preparation plans and what to do if it becomes necessary for you to evacuate.
Prepare Your Appliances And Electronics
Ensure that your phone, laptop, and other major electronics are fully charged before the storm hits. If you loose power, these devices can be useful information centers to keep you and your family up to date and in touch during the storm.
Make sure you have flashlights with back-up batteries in case the power does go out. You should have extra water stored if your water is connected to your power. This will ensure that you and your family have extra drinking water as well as water for cooking and cleaning until the power comes back on.
If you have a standby generator, make sure that it is prepared for the coming storm. Remember to do your routine maintenance, this will provide you the peace of mind that the motor is ready to provide you with the electricity you need. It will also ensure the battery is charged, and filters are clean to make sure your generator is ready to help you get through the storm.
Prepare Your Home
Keep windows and doors closed. If you have hurricane shutters, they should be closed as well, otherwise board up your windows with plywood.
If your basement is prone to flooding during rain storms, take the appropriate steps to prepare that area for a more severe storm. Make sure you have a sump pump on hand in the case of flooding, and an extra battery powered one for if the power goes out.
Make sure your gutters are clear from leaves or any other debris. This will make sure that the rainwater will flow easily through the gutters and keep them from overflowing.
Prepare Your Trees
Trees add beauty and shade to your property, but can be a deadly force in time of a storm. Ensure that your trees are trimmed to keep branches that are barely holding on are removed, and the unhealthy trees are appropriately taken down to prevent them from falling down during the storm.
Are Blackouts A Common Thing?
If you experience blackouts often, you may want to consider a generator to keep your home running even when the power isn’t. Contact one of our trained professionals to help you find the perfect generator for your home. Click here to schedule an appointment online or call us at 1-800-545-1020.