During extreme weather, the elements can threaten our homes and put us at risk of damage. In many cases, protecting your home against natural disasters and the elements can be simple. However, many Americans are all too aware that extreme weather conditions can be devastating, and the damage can be immeasurable.
So how can you protect your home against the elements and survive the wrath of Mother Nature when it hits?
How to Prepare Your Home for Extreme Weather
1. Get Insurance or Check Your Current Policy
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to make sure your home and all your possessions are insured. Make sure to read the small print and know exactly what is covered and go over the limitations.
You should take pictures regularly of what you own and back it up. Keeping records is the best way to show the insurance company what you own and what has been damaged.
2. Familiarize Yourself With Repair Companies
Knowing a reliable repair company will be the best way to help you get back on track after a natural disaster. Part of the issue is negotiating between contractors and insurance companies, and this task can often seem worse than what you are facing.
However, finding a company that can help you with Water Damage Restoration or repairs after wind or water damage who will be able to work with the insurance company can help you start to find your way again in the aftermath of a damaging event.
3. Prepare For Anything
Many counties and states have guides on preparing for geological events that frequently affect the local area. These guides range from hurricanes to earthquakes and extreme heat levels to rising water from flooding.
Visiting your local government’s website will give you information on how to prepare your home for different weather conditions. It will give you an insight into how frequently this type of extreme weather can occur, too.
Knowing when to expect extreme weather conditions and how best to protect yourself and your home will help you put plans in place. Don’t forget to keep local weather alerts on your smartphone to be kept up to date with any new and sudden weather changes.
4. Emergency Supplies
Keeping your home well-stocked with supplies can give you a head start if the worst-case scenario happens. Stocking up on bottled water, canned foods or long-life food supplies that can be eaten as they are will give you something to fall back. While it isn’t likely, you don’t want to be without if food and water supplies are disrupted.
A shovel for snow or in the aftermath of high winds can be useful. De-icer for cold temperatures is also useful, as well as spare batteries, a generator, and torches to help you to see. Consider packing a survival kit including blankets, waterproof outerwear, first aid kit, socks, shoes, torch, and tools that you can easily access.
You never know when extreme weather may cause issues for you. In the event of a disaster, being prepared can help you manage those initial few hours after an extreme weather event or help others who may not have been so lucky.
Is there anything you would add to this list? Tell me about it in the comments!
