Preparing Your Home For Spring Storms

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Daffodils and tulips are showing up here in Middle Tennessee, and that’s a sure sign that Spring is here. We’re all glad to leave the cold of winter behind, of course, but Spring brings its weather challenges, such as rainstorms. With a little preparation, you can be ready for whatever happens, and we’ve got some ideas for you to help you prepare your home for Spring storms: 

ASSESS YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR

Keep an eye out for the following things and make the necessary repairs ahead of bad weather:

• Loose or missing shingles
• Siding that is not firmly in place
• Tree branches or weak vegetation that could damage your home in high winds
• Sheds or gazebos that are not bolted securely to their foundation
• Loose patio furniture and décor not secured; these items should be stored ahead of stormy weather
• Gutters and downspouts that are not firmly attached
• Shutters that are not secured
• Weak fencing 

CLEAN GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

Clean gutters and downspouts keep water run-off away from your home and help prevent flooding. Be sure to:

• Follow all ladder safety precautions and have a spotter there to help
• Wear gloves and use tools to pull out debris
• Lay down a tarp to help with removing debris
• Force water through downspouts to make sure they’re clean
• Hire a professional contractor if this kind of project is not something you can complete yourself

STORM SAFETY PLAN

Get together with your family and go over what to do if there is a severe storm. Things to consider for your storm safety plan:

• Choose the safest place to shelter in your home for a storm
• Create a communication plan for times when you’re not together
• Learn escape routes in case there’s an evacuation
• Decide how your pets will be included in the safety plan
• If you’re bringing supplies into the safe area, predetermine who is responsible for what

POWER OUTAGE PREPARATION 

Take these steps so you’re prepared if the power goes out in your area for an extended period:

Address any family medical concerns that rely on consistent power:

• Talk to your medical professional for direction as to alternatives during a power outage
• Share concerns with your power company so they can put you on their priority list

Preparations:

• Test your generator to be sure it’s in good working order
• Plug all your electronics into surge protectors just in case there’s a power surge when your power is being restored
• Charge your phones and any other electronic devices; cordless charges might be a good idea to have on hand
• Fill the car and generator gas cans with fuel, and purchase non-perishable foods ahead of time

We are here to help, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week in case of any emergency or accident. SERVPRO of Hermitage/Donelson has all the skills and equipment necessary to help with water damage, fire damage, vandalism, mold and mildew, and more. Call us if you need help getting prepared ahead of Spring storms. We can get your home or business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, too! Just ask us how. This franchise is independently owned and operated.