Preparing for a winter storm is very important. Winter storms are especially hazardous as they can deal out a large amount of rain, snow and ice over short periods of time. Here are some key steps to take to be prepared.
Obtain Basic Supplies
In the South, there is a colloquiaism that everyone heads to the store to buy bread and milk before a big storm is about to hit. This may be left over from the days when people had their milk and bread delivered and thus if a storm hit, the delivery person might not be able to get to them for several days. Today, however, it makes more sense to stock up on essentials that the family might need in case of power outages or being snowed or iced in for several days. These items include;
- flashlights
- batteries
- battery operated weather radio
- matches
- candles
- prescription medicines
- food and water
- shovel
- firewood
Prepare the House for Winter
- Start by removing any tree branches that are dead or too close to the home. Tree limbs can get heavy with snow or ice and break and land on the house or other structure.
- Be sure to insulate any outdoor pipes or let them drip water to help them from not freezing up.
- Bring outdoor furniture either inside the garage or onto a screened in porch. This will help keep it in good condition as well as prevent it from going flying if the wind kicks up.
Other Ways to Prepare for a Storm
Prepare for possibly being without power for several hours or even days.
- Charge all cell phones completely.
- Have flashlights with batteries lying out on a counter for easy access.
While the Storm is in Progress
- Monitor the storm by the internet, television or radio to know when it will strike the area or when it should be done. Weather.com keeps up to date information as well as local television and news sites.
- Keep cell phones handy in case they are needed. Also make sure that everyone in the family is home or somewhere safe.
Assess Storm Damage
If the home or property does happen to get hit with storm damage, contact the insurance company as soon as possible. Chances are there are others who will also have damage and the sooner the claim is started, the sooner the damage can be repaired.
The FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) website has many more tips on how to be prepared for a winter storm.
If lightning happens to strike the home, please read this article: When Lightning Strikes Home.
RES101
Sherry Jackson - My articles have been featured in InfoWorld Magazine, Entrepreneur.com, USA Today, Jetsetter.com, Bootsnall.com, Gadling and many ...
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