Prepare for the changing of the seasons

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Spring weather can be very unpredictable as temperatures fluctuate from temperate to frigid. It is the time of year when thunderstorms are most prevalent bringing heavy rains, lightning and even tornadoes.

Alan Lakein, an author on personal time management, once wrote, "Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now." That's very empowering when you think about it. It's almost like time traveling without a DeLorean or having to mess with all that space-time continuum stuff. Planning for emergencies can also bring you great peace of mind. Think of it as an insurance policy against future disasters. 

Here is a list of tips to help you prepare for the changing seasons.

1. Evaluate the exterior of your home.

• Inspect the condition of your roof and siding.
• Evaluate foliage around your home to ensure tree branches are trimmed to prevent them from falling on your home during a storm.
• Inspect your gutters to make sure they are free from debris and that downspouts are secured and in place.

2. Check your sump pump.

3. Tend to leaks and inspect for unnoticed new leaks.

4. Make storm safety plans.

• Conduct a family meeting that will inform everyone what you emergency plans are.
• Have an out of town contact your family knows the number to. This is who you'll call to inform where you are after disaster occurs.
• Teach your children how and when to call emergency numbers.
• Have a location picked out as the place your family will meet in case you get separated from one another. Make sure everyone knows not only the best escape routes but the safe places to go inside your home if a tornado approaches.
• Know how and when to turn off water, gas and electricity at the main switches or valves.
• Have fire extinguishers ready. Show everyone where they're located and how to use them.
• Inventory your possessions and keep that list along with other important documents in a safe deposit box or in the cloud. (On the internet)
• Keep your home owners or renters insurance company's telephone numbers readily available. (Also, be sure to keep SERVPRO of Mason City, Austin & Albert Lea's phone number close at hand.)

5.Maintain your plan and kit.

• Every six months, review your plans with your family, conduct evacuation drills and restock expiring food and perishables in your kit. Also, confirm your fire extinguisher is recharged and smoke alarm batteries are replaced.

6. Get informed- Many areas have local emergency management offices and/or a Red Cross Chapter. These organizations can provide vital information concerning local emergency shelters. It's also a good idea to invest in a NOAA weather radio that will alert you during any time of the day or night for when possible destructive conditions materialize.

SERVPRO of Mason City, Austin & Albert Lea is dedicated to responding immediately to your flood and storm damage emergencies in order to help minimize the loss. We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.