Emergency Preparedness for Homeowners: What to Do Before, During, and After a Spring Storm
5/22/2024 (Permalink)
As the season transitions to spring, West Roxbury, MA, welcomes delightful weather. However, alongside the beauty of the season, there's also the potential for unpredictable and severe storms. For homeowners in the area, being prepared for these events is crucial to safeguarding your family and property. Here's a guide on what you can do before, during, and after a spring storm to stay safe and minimize damage.
Before the Storm:
- Create an Emergency Kit: Assemble essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and medications
- Develop a Family Communication Plan: Establish how to reach each other and designate a meeting place if separated.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Reduce the risk of branches falling onto your home during a storm.
- Check Insurance Coverage: Ensure your homeowners insurance policy provides adequate coverage for potential storm damage.
During the Storm:
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather reports and safety advisories to stay updated on the storm's progress.
- Seek Shelter: If advised, seek shelter in a safe place like a basement or interior room on the lowest level.
- Avoid Windows and Doors: Steer clear of these areas to avoid injury from flying debris.
- Turn Off Utilities: If instructed, turn off gas, electricity, and water to prevent damage from flooding or a gas leak.
After the Storm:
- Assess Damage: Check your property for leaks, structural damage, and fallen trees or power lines.
- Document Damage: Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report any damage and begin the claims process.
- Clean Up Safely: Wear protective gear and be cautious of hazards like downed power lines when cleaning up debris or water.
By following these tips, you can better prepare yourself and your home for spring storms in West Roxbury, MA. Remember, safety should always be your top priority during severe weather events. If you need assistance with storm damage restoration, SERVPRO of Norwood / West Roxbury is here to help. Stay safe!
Westwood, MA | Dedham, MA | West Roxbury, MA | Norwood, MA | East Dedham, MA | Norwood Centre, MA | Endicott, MA | Walpole, MA