Want to know the best tips for preparing for severe weather? Mother nature can strike unannounced and with the most devastating measures. Extreme weather can wreak havoc and throw your life into disarray. Furthermore, the worst storms can lead to injuries, damages, and, worst of all, the loss of life.
Preparing for severe weather is an excellent strategy to minimize its impacts and ensure you continue your normal life or return immediately after the storm. Whether you are wondering how you can protect yourself, your family, or your property, you’re in the right place. We share tips to help you get ready for severe weather.
How Do I Go About Preparing for Severe Weather?
Severe weather can strike anytime, whether a tornado, hurricane, or winter storm. Preparing for any eventuality is critical because you need to be safe and protect your property. Below are excellent ways for you to be ready for extreme weather.
Create A Storm Kit
A storm kit contains supplies you might need to survive for several days in an emergency. Building a storm kit, also known as a disaster supplies kit, is critical because it ensures you have food, water, medicine, and other essentials to survive for several days.
Use easy-to-carry containers like plastics to build your storm kit. List down the necessary items you’ll need and start packing them beforehand. There is no time to do anything once a severe storm hits. Some of the vital things to have in your storm kit include;
- Food
- Water
- First Aid kit
- Flashlight
- Whistle
- Radio
- Prescription medication
- Pet food
- Extra batteries
- Map
- Your phone and a charger
- Important family documents
Putting emergency supplies in one kit makes it easier to find when you need them the most. Ensure that you have at least three days worth of food and water.
Declutter the Yard
Severe storms can send everything flying, putting people at risk of injuries and property damage. A tornado, for instance, can send yard debris flying, damaging your property or knocking you down, causing injuries.
Clean up the yard and dispose of the debris before the storm arrives. Remove dead trees and overhanging branches that can fall or be blown by severe winds. Do you have outdoor furniture? Take them inside before the heavy downpour starts. The last thing you need is to find your favorite furniture flung down several houses. Remember to take your planters inside or secure them to something sturdy.
Horizon Disposal can help you with the yard clean-up project. We deliver the right yard dumpster and pick up the debris, so you don’t have to stress.
Clean the Gutters
One critical thing during severe weather is letting the water flow freely to avoid flooding and pooling. Leaves and other debris can clog gutters, making it difficult for rainwater to flow. Remove debris from the gutters and downspouts, and your roof will thank you.
Make Your Home Weather-Ready
Another vital thing when preparing for severe weather is making your home weather-ready. Ensure that the exterior doors and windows are in perfect condition and can withstand terrible weather conditions. Installing hurricane shutters can be an excellent way to protect your home from bad storms.
Be In The Know
Importantly, get informed on weather changes and get alerts and advisories by tuning on the NOAA weather radio. Thanks to advanced technology, weather forecasters can predict when a storm is likely to happen. Take the warnings seriously—turn on the alerts on your phone if they’re off— and know the exit plans.
Furthermore, knowing where to turn on and off utilities is vital. Severe weather can affect the water, electricity, and gas supply. Designate a safe place for you and your family to take shelter during stormy weather.