Autumn often brings turbulent weather, from heavy rains and high winds to early-season snowstorms. These events can cause power outages, flooding, and property damage. Being prepared is the best way to keep your family safe and minimize the potential impact on your home.
Use this comprehensive checklist to harden your home, gather necessary supplies, and create a plan before the next storm hits.
Part 1: Harden Your Home
Exterior:
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure they are clear of leaves and debris so water can drain away from your foundation.
- Trim Trees and Branches: Remove any dead or overhanging branches that could fall on your home, car, or power lines during high winds.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Store or tie down patio furniture, grills, trampolines, and anything else that could become a projectile in strong winds.
- Check Your Roof: Visually inspect your roof for any loose or missing shingles and have them repaired.
- Inspect Sump Pump: If you have a sump pump, test it to make sure it’s working correctly. Consider a battery backup for power outages.
- Check Seals: Inspect the weather stripping and seals around windows and doors to prevent water and wind from entering.
Interior:
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Change the batteries to ensure they are working.
- Protect Your Valuables: Move important documents, photos, and electronics out of the basement and to a higher floor if possible. Store critical papers in a waterproof container.
- Know Your Shut-Offs: Locate and learn how to shut off your home’s main water valve, gas line, and electricity.
Part 2: Build Your Emergency Kit
Your kit should contain enough supplies to last each person in your household for at least 72 hours. Store it in a cool, dark place that’s easy to access.
Essentials:
- Water: One gallon of water per person, per day.
- Non-Perishable Food: Canned goods, energy bars, dried fruit. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
- Flashlights and Batteries: Use flashlights or lanterns, not candles, to avoid a fire hazard.
- First-Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: To stay informed about weather updates and emergency broadcasts.
- Whistle: To signal for help.
- Cash: ATMs and credit card machines may not work during a power outage.
- Phone Chargers & Power Bank: A fully charged portable power bank is essential.
Additional Supplies:
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Change of clothes and sturdy shoes
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and personal hygiene items
- Games, books, or puzzles for entertainment
- Pet food and extra water for your pets
Part 3: Create Your Plan & Document
- Family Communication Plan: Designate an out-of-state contact person for family members to call and check in with. Ensure everyone has this person’s number.
- Evacuation Route: If you live in an area prone to flooding, know your local evacuation routes.
- Pre-Storm Documentation: Take photos or videos of your home’s interior and exterior, including valuable possessions. This will be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim.
Preparation is your best defense against severe weather. By taking these steps, you can face fall storms with confidence. And if your home does sustain water damage, remember that Upper Restoration is ready to respond 24/7 to help you recover quickly.
