Sudden Summer Storms

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes storms can occur in Summer without prior warning. Knowing certain safety tips can help protect you and your home or business!

Summer 2020 was one of the costliest seasons on record for storm damage. While no large coastal storms or thunderstorms have occurred yet, it's always nice to have certain information handy in the event of a sudden storm. By following a few simple preparedness tips, you can protect your home and business from becoming a statistic.

Ahead of a Storm

• Make a disaster-preparation strategy. Create an exterior meeting spot as well as escape routes from each room in your home. Practice the plan with family members as well. Include your pets in the plan and make sure they are wearing identification tags.
• Make sure you and your family know how to use a fire extinguisher and how to turn off utilities.
• Be sure your policy includes flood insurance. This may be an additional item, as it isn't covered by most ordinary insurance policies.
• Prepare your emergency supply kit, including the following:

• 3–5 days’ worth of non-perishable food and bottled water
• Scissors, tweezers, cloth tape, antibiotic ointment, adhesive bandages, non-latex gloves, and other items for a first-aid kit.
• External batteries for cell phones, etc., as well as a battery-powered flashlight and radio with backup batteries or solar chargers.
• If necessary, prescription drugs.
• Blankets and warm clothing are essential.
• Items for personal hygiene (toilet paper, tissue, deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste)

During a Storm

• When a storm is approaching, bring all of your valuables inside and relocate all of your vehicles and equipment to higher ground.
• Walking through moving water is not a good idea. You can be swept off your feet by just a few inches of quickly moving water.
• If you're outside, move to higher ground and stay away from low-lying places that may be vulnerable to flooding.
• Make sure the doors and windows are securely shut if you're inside. Avoid being struck by shattered glass by staying away from windows. If the storm is severe, seek cover in your basement.
• Use of utilities and wired electrical equipment should be avoided. Turn off utilities to reduce the risk of damage from flooding or other disasters.
• Keep up with weather reports and follow local officials' instructions if they urge you to leave your home.

After a Storm

• Check to see whether everyone is okay and if your home has been damaged. Keep an eye out for potential dangers.
• If you suspect that utilities have been damaged, contact your local authorities and wait for their clearance before turning them back on.
• If your home has been flooded, stay away from the floodwater because it is likely contaminated.
• Make a note of the goods that have been damaged or lost, and take photos of them.
• Make a claim on your flood insurance.
• Floodwater is deemed polluted in its entirety. As a result, if you have water damage, all contaminated absorbent materials should be removed and thrown away (carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, etc.).
• Water damage needs to be repaired as soon as possible. Otherwise, mold contamination will occur, causing a slew of additional concerns and issues.

If you are affected by a summer storm, the experts at SERVPRO Kaufman County, Mesquite are ready to help. Our trained mitigation team is ready to respond quickly and efficiently to minimize the damage and restore your home or business "Like it never even happened."