Creating a Storm Safety Plan

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Biddeford-Saco right away.

Severe weather can create dangerous conditions and cause serious damage to homes and infrastructure. Weather-related damages often result in financial consequences. In 2021, the United States spent at least $1 billion dollars in weather-related damage, showing just how expensive storm devastation can get.

Here in Maine, natural disasters such as floods, fires, earthquakes, and tornadoes are likely to occur. It is essential to understand which types of natural disasters are more likely to strike in our region to understand how to best prepare for them.

Storms can pose a real threat to your safety and wallet, and though we can’t control the weather, we can learn ways to better prepare for storms when they do occur. Having a storm safety plan in place is one way to take action against inclement weather.

Have a Communication Plan

When a storm hits, it is important to have a communication plan in place for all residents of your household or business. Communication plans with emergency phone numbers, highlighted evacuation routes and shelter information can be an important tool to use in case of a weather-related emergency.

Consider planning a designated “safe space” in your home or office for sheltering against inclement weather and a check-in procedure for parties to report when they are out of harm’s way.

Have an Emergency Kit Ready

Emergency kits are an essential item to have on hand in the event of a storm. Pack your emergency kit with essential materials, such as water, nonperishable food items, a first-aid kit, working flashlights and backup batteries. Make sure your emergency kit is in an area that will be easily accessible from your place of shelter.

Prepare Your Home

It is important to reduce the potential for avertable damages by taking steps to prepare your home or business for a storm. Start by sealing windows and doors and checking the exterior of your building for loose items that could blow away in the storm.

Next, check that your roof and gutters are in good working condition and free of leaks. It can also be helpful to add DIY storm shutters to protect from rain and high winds.

In case damage does occur, it is important to know who to contact for help. With a trustworthy team of skilled restoration technicians, SERVPRO of Biddeford-Saco has your back. We’re on standby ²⁴⁄₇, ready to get your home back to “Like it never even happened.”

Finally, set aside time to put together a storm safety plan for your home or office. Round up any necessary items, update your communication plans and be prepared for the next time a storm hits.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action—get in touch with us today.