Being prepared for a named storm means more than just getting ready to leave. In the event youre riding the storm out, there are some things you can do to help when the storm passes. Well lay out some of these tips here:
- Stock Up on Canned Food: Canned foods are important because theyre waterproof and spoil-proof. Most canned goods can last a couple of years so even if you dont use them during this storm, you may be able to at the next. If you have older canned goods, it is a good idea to keep them in rotation when things are calm, so you have fresh foods when you need them most.
- Set Freezer to lowest setting: Before the storm hits and the likelihood of losing power gets closer, set your freezer to its lowest setting. This can hard freeze your frozen goods and allow them more time when the power goes out. If you need to open the freezer, have a good plan in place for what you want to grab to limit the time you have it open. A hard frozen freezer can last several days if left unopened.
- Batteries or solar power stations: If youre without power youll need batteries. Many new technologies exist today that rely on solar power to charge up your phones or even run small appliances like microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffee machines. If you havent investigated solar power before, portable solar kits make it easy and can be a lifesaver. Keep your devices on the charger until the storm hits. This will ensure you have full power on your devices.
- Water Jugs: Sometimes when inundated with water, we forget that clean water will be more important than ever. Be sure to have at least 3 gallons of water always set aside for each person in your household.
- Document your house: When it comes to claims it is always important to prove what your home used to be like. Grab your cell phone and go room to room taking a video. Be sure to get your closet too so you can see what clothing items you had. Also, do a quick loop outside of your home to show its condition before the storm arrives.
- Have an emergency plan and meeting place for the family: Do you have a plan to get in touch with friends and family after the storm? Have a designated meeting spot where you can connect if phone service or the internet is down.
- Take care of your pets: Be sure to have food and water for your pets. If your pet is used to dry food, put them in double-bagged Ziplock bags or watertight canisters.
- Keep your sensitive documents in a safe place: Did you know that your dishwasher is waterproof? If you dont have a water-tight safe, take your passports, marriage license, and other sensitive documents and put them in good-quality freezer bags, then put them inside of your dishwasher. A dishwasher doesnt let water out, so it also wont let water in.
Being prepared is key to not only survival but making things more comfortable until power and waters recede. Taking a few moments now can help. Well be here after the storm to help with your insurance claims and get you back to pre-loss condition.
After the storm has passed, make sure to follow these tips to stay safe:
- If you had to evacuate, only return home after authorities advise it is safe.
- Avoid downed power lines. Dont touch anything that is touching the power lines, especially water or puddles that are close to it.
- Mitigate further damage. Board up broken windows, purchase a tarp, etc.
- Be cautious of gas lines. If you suspect a broken gas line, evacuate the property and contact the gas company.
- Do not walk in water where you cant see the bottom. This can contain sharp objects, tripping hazards, and many other hazardous conditions.
If you have damage to your home, make sure to contact your insurance carrier as soon as you can safely do so. Take photos of all damages and damaged items, and list the estimated value of those items and the approximate date of purchase. Lastly, keep receipts of all things you purchase to do any repairs or mitigate any further damages.
