24/7 Emergency Service
Storm Preparation and Recovery
2/21/2023 (Permalink)
We at SERVPRO are here for any size disaster from a small water leak to the unavoidable storm. Whatever life throws at you, we are Here to Help® through it all. If a storm does come your way, we have some tips and tricks on what to do to prepare for these large events.
Hurricane
Hurricanes are one of the slower moving natural disasters. Because of this, typically your local news source will be able to provide advance notice. These notices can help you prepare your property for any upcoming weather.
Depending on your location, hurricane season occurs during different times of the year, but that shouldn’t change how you prepare yourself and your property. Here are some of our tips to prepare for a hurricane:
- Don’t forget to unplug appliances. This helps not only protect your appliances from power fluctuation, but also potential fire hazards.
- You will need to turn off the power to your home if you notice flooding in your area, downed power-lines, or if authorities recommend you do so. This will precent sparks from occurring if your home floods.
- Boarding up windows will help with flying debris and other dangers that may enter your home. If you’re unable to board up the windows, stay as far away from the windows as you can to protect yourself, preferably taking shelter in a closet.
Listen to authorities if they tell you to evacuate and always be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. A home can be replaced, but your life and your loved ones cannot.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes can strike at a moments notice if the conditions are favorable. These storms are measured with the Fujita Scale: F1 being the weakest to F5 being the strongest. Even the weakest version of these storms can be dangerous which is why we always need to be prepared. Here are some ways for you to stay safe when in the midst of a tornado:
- Always remain aware of the weather conditions, especially if you know severe weather is possible.
- Have an emergency plan in place, so that everyone is aware of where to go and what to do.
- Take shelter immediately in a safe place. Make sure there are no windows or breakable glass around. If possible, go to a basement, if not then find a room in the middle of your house. If you live in a manufactured home, guidelines suggest you leave the home and take cover in a safe room, storm shelter, or sturdy building.
Recovery
With severe storms there unfortunately comes damage. SERVPRO of Rocky Mount is always ready for when disaster strikes. Here are some tips to start dealing with the disaster after the storm:
- Report any power outages or downed power lines to your electricity company. Downed power lines can be extremely dangerous. If the lines still hold power, they can produce sparks which can lead to a fire. If you come across downed powerlines, stay 30 feet away and don’t go near the pole or anything touching the line. If they land on your car, do not leave the car and wait for help to arrive. Always assume that a downed power line is carrying electricity!
- Check for storm water runoff. Look around your home (crawlspace, attic, roof, etc.) to see if it is dry. Make sure there is no standing water or areas that could be leaking. The key to water restoration is making sure the structure dries in the appropriate amount of time. When a structure doesn’t dry quickly enough you have the potential for harmful microbial growth which can cause severe illness.
- You will have to figure out how to dispose of the debris left behind. The best way to find this information is to contact your trash company or FEMA.
Storm season is rapidly approaching here in Eastern North Carolina. We all need to be prepared before it hits and know what to expect for the recovery. If your home is damaged during a hurricane or tornado, our experts at SERVPRO will be there to get everything back to the way it was or better, "Like it never even happened." As always, feel free to contact us here at SERVPRO Rocky Mount for any additional questions or concerns regarding storm prep.