A severe storm can be a frightening experience. The wind and rain may seem like they’re trying to tear your home apart, and it’s not uncommon for power lines or trees to fall on the property. But what if you knew there were things you could do before the storm even hit? By taking some simple steps now, such as boarding up windows and doors, moving important items to higher ground, and stocking up on supplies like food, water, and batteries – you can ensure that your home is as safe as possible during a storm.
Board up windows and doors
The simple act of boarding up windows and doors can help protect your home from damage during a severe storm. By boarding up your windows, you can keep the wind and rain from entering your home and causing further damage. And by boarding up your doors, you can keep the wind from blowing them open and allowing water to seep in.
In addition to boarding up windows and doors, you may also want to consider moving important items to higher ground. This can help protect them from flooding or being damaged by falling trees or power lines. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your home is as safe as possible during a storm.
You can also install window well covers to reduce the risk of water entering the basement and affecting the foundations of the home.
Clear rain gutters and downspouts of debris
Rain gutters and downspouts play a very important role in preventing water damage to your home. By keeping them clear of debris, you can ensure that the water will be able to flow away from your home properly. If the rain gutters and downspouts are clogged, the water will have no way to escape and may end up flooding your home.
It’s important to keep an eye on your rain gutters and downspouts year-round, but it’s especially important to do so during a severe storm. By clearing them of debris, you can help prevent water damage to your home.
Trim trees and branches that could fall onto the home
The trees and branches around your home can be a major hazard during a severe storm. If they are not trimmed properly, they could fall onto the home and cause damage. In addition, the branches can also act as a lightning rod, attracting lightning strikes to the home.
It is therefore important to trim all trees and branches around the home properly. This will help reduce the risk of them falling onto the home during a storm and will also help reduce the risk of being hit by lightning.
Stock up on food, water, and batteries
When a severe storm is headed your way, it’s important to stock up on supplies. This includes food, water, and batteries. By having these supplies on hand, you’ll be prepared for anything that the storm may bring.
Food is essential during a severe storm. It will provide you with the energy you need to stay safe and warm, and it will also help keep you calm. Water is also important, as you will need it to drink and to clean up any damage that may have occurred. And batteries are essential for powering flashlights, radios, and other emergency equipment.
By stocking up on these supplies now, you’ll be prepared for whatever the storm may bring.
Install a sump pump if you live in an area that is prone to flooding
If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it’s important to install a sump pump. A sump pump is a device that helps remove water from the basement or crawlspace of a home. By removing the water, the sump pump helps protect the home from being damaged by flooding.
There are many different types of sump pumps available on the market, so it’s important to select the one that is best suited for your needs. There are also many different installation options, so be sure to consult with a professional before installing a sump pump.
Once the sump pump is installed, it’s important to test it regularly. This will ensure that it is working properly and that it will be able to remove the water quickly when you need it to.
Stock up on tools needed for repairs
When a severe storm is headed your way, you’ll want to make sure that you have the necessary tools on hand to repair any damage that may occur. This can include items like trash bags, duct tape, work gloves, and a utility knife. By having these items on hand, you’ll be prepared to do simple repairs yourself.
A severe storm can cause a lot of damage to your home. By taking some simple precautions, you can help protect your home from the worst of it.