5 Vital Storm Preparation Tips
8/12/2020 (Permalink)
Ways To Keep Your Home Safe During Storm Season
Hurricanes and other tropical storms can inflict devastating damage on a community. High winds, heavy precipitation, and flood water are only the first of your worries during this time. However, you can reduce your risk by preparing yourself before the storm hits. Follow these safety tips to help keep your home in St. Charles, MO, safe during storm season.
1. Stay informed: The first thing you should do is sign up for your community's emergency alert system. This way, you'll have access to the latest storm updates as they occur.
2. Learn and practice your escape routes: Chances are, your community already has specific evacuation routes mapped out. If they don't, then make sure to take the time to plan your own escape methods. Practice these regularly so you'll be ready in case of an emergency.
3. Create an emergency supply kit: Your emergency supply kit should contain everything you need during an emergency. Your kit should contain freshwater, non-perishable food items, a first aid kit, a flashlight, extra batteries, a wrench and/or set of pliers, and a backup cell phone, at the very least.
4. Keep electronics away from flood water: The most dangerous part of any flooded building is electrified water. Move all electrical equipment, such as wiring, and circuit breakers at least one foot above flood level.
5. Never enter the flood: You should never, under any circumstances, attempt to swim, walk-in, or drive through floodwater. You may think you're a strong swimmer, but the flood is definitely stronger. It only takes six inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. Additionally, there's always a chance that the water could be contaminated, which poses a dangerous health risk.
Preparation is an essential part of staying safe. Possessions can be repaired or replaced, and are never worth risking your life over. After the water has subsided, and the authorities have given you permission to return to your home, you should contact storm remediation experts to help assist with the water damage.