Preparing for Summer Storms

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

As we get out of winter and inch closer to the summer, it is important to remember another season that is coming up: tornado season. Every year, tornadoes cost about $400 million in damage costs around the United States, with an average cost of $8,179 per house. Just one category F5 tornado, the strongest on the Fujita scale, can cause over $1 billion in damage by itself. To avoid having your entire year ruined by being unprepared for spring storm damage, here are some tips for saving time and money.

• The best way to be prepared for storm damage is to have an insurance policy that covers storm-related damage. Check with your insurance provider to make sure they cover damage from wind, lightning and falling branches. You should make sure you are covered now before the storm comes through. While you take measures to reduce damage, a powerful storm can destroy any safety measures you take. Being covered is your best bet. 
• Once you know you are covered for after the storm, there are steps you can take to reduce the possible damage inflicted. One is to reduce the amount of debris around your house that could be blown into your walls and windows. Dead trees and branches should be removed so that they will not be a potential hazard for a violent storm. Also, remove items in your yard such as grills, furniture and children's play equipment, and store them inside when a storm alert has been issued. 
• While protecting your property is important, your first thought should be of those living in your home. Making sure you are setup to withstand a storm is a crucial step in keeping you and your family safe. You should have a designated shelter area that is in the basement or at ground level. This area should have no windows and enough space for your entire family to stay in for a few hours until the storm is over. In this area there should be essentials such as: flashlights, a first aid kit, and blankets if the power goes out. You can customize your shelter area to the needs and size of your family. 
• Make sure to have a generator prepared as well. A severe storm can knock out power for days and you will be without electricity for your refrigerator, lights, and electric heaters. While power lines are down, generators are one of the first things sold out in stores, so getting one today is a smart, proactive move. 

Storms can be frightening, and even worse if you're unprepared. Take these steps to make sure you are ready for summer and any kind of weather it may have.