With the extreme weather happening in Texas, it’s now more apparent than ever that the effects of climate change just keep getting more severe. Consider that the Texas situation comes on the heels of the recent California wildfires, not to mention 2020’s record-breaking hurricane season. As these events just keep piling up, it’s more important than ever for homeowners to know how to prepare for an unprecedented storm. Read on for the tips you need to keep your family safe, courtesy of our professionals at FP Property Restoration.
5 Best Ways to Prepare for an Unprecedented Storm
- Put Together an Emergency Supply Kit: if you live in an area of the country that experiences extreme weather, (and really, even if you don’t) it’s always a good idea to put together an emergency supply kit. Essentials for this kit include radios, toiletries, cash, work gloves, canned/prepackaged food (and a can to open it with,) bottled water, flashlights, a first aid kit, any medications you need, and gas for your car. And speaking of gas…
- Shut off Plumbing and/or Gas: When hurricanes or wildfires occur, you may need to shut off your home’s gas supply to prevent potential explosions and other damage. Similarly, if there’s a chance you will experience frozen pipes due to a winter storm, or if your home could be flooded as a result of a storm, you should turn off your plumbing system as well. Main shut-off valves for gas and power can usually be found outside, on the street side of your house, though your water’s shut-off valve may also be in your basement.
- Purchase/Charge Electronics: In addition to shutting off gas and water, you may also want to turn off your electrical system. However, you may need power if you’re going to be stuck in your home for a long time during a storm, which is why it’s a good idea to install a backup generator, too. In addition, you’ll want to purchase/charge all the portable electronics you’ll need to get you through the storm. Remember, you may have to evacuate your house, so the last thing you want in this situation is to find yourself without a phone. And speaking of evacuation…
- Determine Evacuation Routes: Getting into your car during an extreme weather event may be dangerous in any circumstance, but you can almost guarantee it will be dangerous if you get into your car without knowing where you are going. It’s best to plan an evacuation route ahead of time, as well as a safe place you can take your family. For instance, some people make plans to meet at cemeteries during earthquakes, as there are no gas lines underneath the ground in these facilities.
- Make Sure Your Insurance Is Up-to-Date: As FP Property Restoration can tell you firsthand, navigating the homeowners insurance process can be difficult if you don’t plan ahead. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you may need to purchase separate storm insurance on top of your homeowners insurance, as your provider may not apply to all types of water damage. Also, when it comes to wildfires, your policy may only cover certain items in the case of damage/loss
Call for Professional Storm Restoration Today
At FP Property Restoration, we offer award-winning storm damage service to help get your property up-and-running following hurricanes or extreme weather events. We also offer a full range of water damage restoration options, as well as fire damage clean-up and repairs. And with a team that is trained to help you navigate the insurance process, you will always be better prepared with FP Property Restoration on your side. Remember, don’t let climate change get the best of you. Make a plan, and let our experts at FP Property Restoration help you execute it.
Call (888) 408-2335 now to schedule service, or click here to send us a message online.