Unless a hurricane or tornado has impacted you in the past, storm season readiness may not be at the forefront of your mind. But with storms increasing in size and frequency, taking the time to prepare can make a huge difference.
The types of storms and when you can anticipate their arrival will vary depending on where you live. Those living close to the Atlantic Ocean can anticipate hurricanes from June through November. Those living along the East Coast are in threat of nor’easters, which are particularly hazardous between September through April. The Midwest can expect tornados to hit in the spring. And those along the West Coast can expect fires to occur during the peak season, June through November.
No matter what kind of storm you’re expecting in your area, there are a few basic preparation protocols. Here are four steps to take before the next storm season arrives.
1. Buy or Renew Your Home Insurance
Now is as good a time as ever to make sure all your insurance policies are up-to-date and accurate. Home insurance gives you financial security for repairs or replacements if a storm strikes. Check the policy and know what is included in your coverage. You may need supplemental insurance policies, such as flood insurance, to fully protect yourself. It’s best to buy these policies early as there may be a waiting period, such as 30 days, before the coverage begins.
When looking for the best insurance or supplemental insurance policy, do some research. Policies vary widely as do prices. Consider your location and factor in important details about your home. Some companies will lower your rate if you have an impact-resistant roof, for example. After narrowing down your choices, it may be best to speak with a representative. This way you know exactly what your policy includes and know you’re paying the best price for it.
2. Make a Plan for You and Your Family
When a storm is knocking at your door, the time to come up with a safety or evacuation plan is limited. And not having a plan can be dangerous. Having a plan mapped out will give you and your family peace of mind. If you are in a home, designate a “safe room” for everyone to gather in. Ideally, this is a room on the lowest floor or basement with few or no windows.
Also, create an evacuation plan. Know where you will go to seek shelter and how you will get there. If there is a family friend that lives inland, for example, perhaps that can be your evacuation destination. Also, have the name and address of a hotel along your city or town’s safe route that will accommodate you and your entire family. Be sure you know how to get to all of these destinations without GPS in case cell phone towers are down.
During your planning, be sure to keep any special needs of family members and pets in mind. Older family members with limited mobility will need to be accounted for as will young children. Have a list of crucial equipment, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or pack-and-play cribs, that you will need to travel with during an evacuation. Pets should be given a collar, tag, or microchip in case they are separated from their family. It happens more often than you’d think because many pets run when they get scared.
3. Have Supplies Ready
Either nearby or in your designated safe room, keep some basic supplies on hand. At the very least, this includes bottled water, non-perishable food items, blankets, pillows, and a first aid kit. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one gallon of water per person; in terms of food, it’s best to have enough to last for a few days as well. Any prescription medications should also be kept within your stocked emergency kit. Other items that may be useful are flashlights, extra batteries, basic toiletries, and local maps.
After assembling your kit, make sure that everyone in the house knows where it is located. The kit should be stocked ahead of storm season. Check items like flashlights to confirm they are still in working order. Replace any expired food items, as needed, and add more items as you and your family’s needs change. If you’ve welcomed a newborn into the family, you’ll need to add items like diapers and formula, for example.
4. Prepare the Yard
To help minimize potential damage, prepare your yard ahead of storm season. Any tree limbs close to your home, a neighbor’s home, or a power line should be cut back. Pruning back the trees every year should keep the tree from falling during large wind storms. It’s a good idea to have your yard inspected by a tree expert once a year. A professional will be able to tell you if any trees are posing a risk to you or another nearby home.
Clearing your gutters will also protect your home. Any debris should be removed to keep the gutters working properly and prevent unnecessary flooding. While you’re removing debris, look for any drainage issues and check with a roofing professional if anything seems awry.
Have weather-resistant bungee cords at the ready to tie down any outdoor furniture, such as patio sets. Grills should also be secured or moved into a garage when a storm is approaching. Any hanging plants or decorations should be taken down and brought inside as well. Unsecured items can become flying debris during a storm, and you want to avoid that hazard.
Conclusion
Being prepared and planning can alleviate any worries and help you remain calm before storm season. Take the time to set yourself, your family, and your home up for whatever weather may come your way this year.
