We are in the thick of summer when the air is humid and the temperatures are scorching. You know what that means: it's storm season. Storms are beautiful testaments to the power of Mother Nature, but can wreck havoc on your home. Here are some tips for keeping yourself and your home safe during stormy weather:
- Have a plan! "Having a storm readiness plan in place saves valuable time if severe weather strikes. Take the opportunity now to choose the best shelter in your home, and make sure your family knows where it is. [Also] choose a meeting place to gather after the storm to ensure that everyone is safe and accounted for" (The Government of Canada).
- Have supplies ready! "Maintain an emergency pack with a battery-powered flashlight, a radio (preferably with Weatheradio capability), tools for emergency repair, food supplies, a first aid kit, blankets and extra clothing. Keep your car gas tank full, in case gas stations close down during or after a storm. When a warning is issued, stay calm and follow your plan" (The Government of Canada).
- Clean your waterways! "The first place heavy rains hit is on your roof. To reduce flood damage, make sure your gutters and downspouts are intact. To achieve this, clear leaves, branches and debris, such as sticks and dirt, from gutters and downspouts. This will ensure rainwater channels properly off the roof and doesn’t overflow into your home. Make sure that your downspouts drain away from the house" (Forbes Home).
- Make sure you're insured! "While you likely have home insurance, most plans at their basic level don't cover flood insurance because not all areas are currently flood-prone. That said, with storms getting more intense and dropping more precipitation, it's probably a good idea to look into it, no matter where you live. Weather patterns are changing and becoming less predictable, so your home could wind up more susceptible to flooding than you may have initially thought" (The Weather Network).
- Tie down your valuables! "Heavy gusts of wind and severe rain storms can damage your home, ruin your outdoor furniture or cause injury. Some homeowners invest a significant amount of money in patio furniture and outdoor living appliances, such as refrigerators and grills. If you know a storm is approaching, move appliances and furniture into the garage or shed. If that’s not possible, tie the loose items down" (Forbes Home).
Being prepared will give you peace of mind against Mother Nature!
(Image created via Canva)