You can take steps to protect your family and property before, during and after summer storms.
Before the Storm
- Create a family communication plan. This should include a contact sheet with names, addresses, and phone numbers for important contacts including both your immediate and out-of-state family members, doctors, schools and daycares. Don’t forget veterinary and pet daycare numbers!
- Make a home inventory. If you do experience a claim, it will be easier to have your claim processed if an inventory is available.
- Stay Alert! Sign up for weather alerts in your area. Your utility provider may also have an app to report outages. The FEMA App can also help you prepare for and respond to disasters.
- Assemble a emergency preparedness kit which should include emergency lights like flashlights or solar lights along with ready to eat food items and bottled water available. Go to Ready.gov to learn how to Build A Kit
- Review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
When the Storm is Coming
- Inspect sump pump. Test the battery back-up.
- Park car in garage if that option is available.
- Move items inside such as outdoor items like bikes or furniture that may blow around during the storm and cause damage.
- Bring pets indoors.
- Go inside if you hear thunder. Lightening is close enough to strike when you hear it rumbling. Head inside and stay inside for 30 minutes until after the last thunderclap.
During the Storm
- Stay Indoors. Remember to keep away from windows and move to an interior room if possible.
- Find safe shelter. If you are outside remember not to seek shelter under a tree.
- Remain in your vehicle if driving. Pull over to a safe location if driving is difficult.
- Avoid using electrical appliances.
- Wait to go outside until there is confirmation that the storm is no longer a threat in your area.
After the Storm
- If there is flooding
- Clean up pools of water
- Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew
- Move damp items outdoors to prevent mold growth in the home
- Move items away from damp areas.
- Notify your insurance company if there is damage.
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