Before a major storm or natural disaster hits, there are several precautions you can take to minimize damage to your home or business. Read on for tips on preparing for a storm, steps to take as a storm becomes imminent, and what to do immediately after the storm subsides. Learn more.
Residential Preparation
- Stock up on non-perishables, such as canned goods.
- Make sure that you have adequate medical supplies and refill any critical prescriptions.
- Keep any areas surrounding electrical service equipment clear.
- Turn the temperature controls on your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting to keep food cold on the event of power outage.
- Fill several large containers and your bath tub with water.
- Keep flashlights, batteries, candles and matches on hand throughout the house.
- Fill your car with gas.
- Secure any boats early.
- Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind-resistant.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, trashcans and anything else that is not tied down.
- If you have special needs, such as life support equipment, be prepared in case you lose power.
- If you have a home medical device, make sure your device will still work during a power outage, or have a back-up plan in place.
- Stay tuned to local weather forecast for storm updates and have a battery-powered radio available.
Severe Weather or Hurricane Warnings
- Tape, board or shutter windows and glass doors.
- Secure all outdoor objects that could became airborne under high winds.
- Wedge sliding glass doors to prevent them from lifting from their tracks.
- In the winter, close off unused rooms to conserve heat, open curtains and shades to let sunlight in and close them at night. Stock up on firewood.
- Leave your home if authorities order an evacuation, especially if your homes is in an area that floods easily.
After the Storm
- Take photographs of all damage before repairs and keep receipts for insurance.
- Avoid downed or dangling utility wires.
- If your house has been damaged, contact the Inspection Services Division (ISD) to request an inspection.
Business and Commercial Preparation
- Always protect your data with backup files.
- Make plans to work with limited cash, no water, sewer or power for few days.
- Protect your employees by providing shelter to employees and their families, if possible.
- Review your insurance coverage and be aware that flood damage requires separate coverage.
- Check your disaster supplies kit.
- Secure property by tying down any items that could become airborne under high winds, like lawn furniture, potted plants and trashcans.
- Fill fleet cars and equipment gas tanks.
Severe Weather or Hurricane Warnings
- Tape, board or shutter windows and glass doors. If you do not have impact-resistant windows, install shutters or plywood to cover glass.
- Cover and move equipment to a secure area.
- Secure all outdoor objects that could became airborne by high winds.
After the Storm
- Use caution before entering your business. Check for power lines, gas leaks and structural damage. If any electrical equipment is wet, contact an electrician.
- Take photographs of all damage before repairs and keep receipts for insurance.
- Avoid downed or dangling utility wires.
- After assessing damage to your facility, contact the Inspection Services Division (ISD) to request an inspection.