Keeping Your Coastal Home Safe During Storm Season

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Everyone sees storms differently here on the coast. Some people find them exciting, as long as they are safe and dry indoors, while others consider storms to be terrifying because of potential storm damage. Whether you bundle up and enjoy the sounds of stormy weather or you stand at the windows and watch for trouble, it’s important for you to know what to do to keep your home safe during storm season.

Here are some best practices to help:

• Have a storm safety kit. If you live an area where weather can become unpredictable and even violent, it’s going to be a smart idea to create a storm safety kit for yourself and your loved ones. This kit should provide you with all the supplies you may need to see you through the worst weather. It should be stored in a plastic box or tub with a sealed lid, and should include:
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Blankets and bottles of water
• Battery-operated radio or means of communication
• Basic food supplies
• Basic first aid items
• Small fire extinguisher
• Watch the windows.  The weakest spot in your home is the window. Make sure your house has been equipped with suitable hurricane windows, and storm shutters are also extremely helpful as an additional layer of protection and security.
• Know the drill.  Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of a storm. Have a plan of action and discuss it with your family and loved ones. It’s vital to stay indoors, and if the weather gets extremely severe, you will want to retreat to the basement area or the most interior room of the house.
• Prepare your roof.  Another vulnerable point in your home is your roof. Use highly rated shingles that can withstand the harshest weather.
• Remember the garden.  When planting and choosing garden furniture, keep storm season in mind. Maintain your trees by removing branches that are not strong; these can become dangerous when torn off and thrown around by high winds. Get rid of rock and gravel landscaping, as a strong wind can send these materials flying. A little extra work now can save time and money later. Be safe!

Here at SERVPRO of Waycross, Douglas & Hinesville, we are always ready to help you stay safe. When bad weather or emergencies happen, we are equipped to assist with cleanup after fire or water damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties.  Call us at (912) 452 2498 or visit our website: SERVPRO of Waycross, Hinesville & Douglas