Severe Weather Tips for Yourself and Your Home

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

When a storm is headed your way, what can you do to help protect yourself, your business and your home from severe weather? Knowing the
difference between a storm watch and a storm
warning will help you know when to seek shelter. By taking a few simple precautions as storm season approaches, you can help minimize the potential for storm-related property damage; however if your home or business does sustain damage, it is important to know where to turn for prompt, professional help.

Although violent storms can strike anytime, the spring and summer months typically mark an increase in the threat of sudden, severe storms that sometimes include wind, rain, lightning and even hail.

Authorities issue a storm 'watch' when the potential for severe weather exists. A storm 'warning' will be issued when danger from a severe storm is imminent. The following tips will help prepare you to better protect yourself and your property when a storm is on the horizon.

• Put a communication plan in place and prepare an emergency supply kit, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather radio.
• Postpone outdoor activities; secure outdoor objects that could become airborne.
• Don't use corded phones or any appliances that are "plugged in." Use cell or cordless phones instead.
• Seek shelter in a home, building or hard top automobile. The steel frame of a vehicle – not the rubber tires – can help protect you from a lightning strike if you avoid touching metal or other conductive surfaces.
• Avoid windows and doors, don't lie on concrete floors or lean on concrete walls, and stay off of porches.
• If you are outside when a storm hits, seek shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid small, isolated structures in open areas and steer clear of hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.

After the Storm:

• Avoid storm-damaged areas. Stay away from downed power lines and never try to drive through a flooded roadway.
• Replenish your emergency supplies and repair property damage promptly, before the next storm strikes.

SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. can help you establish an Emergency READY Profile to expedite help and recovery in an emergency situation. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals quick response time helps limit secondary damage. If your property sustains damage from wind, water or fire, call SERVPRO of Holland/W. Ottawa Co. to help make it “Like it never even happened.”