If you’ve ever experienced severe, damaging storms, you know how frightening they can be. Tornados, hurricanes, hail, and electrical storms can all wreak havoc on homes and communities—and many times they strike without warning.
To help reduce fear during a storm and boost your home’s overall safety, we’ve put together a handy list of ways to prepare and protect yourself before—and if—a destructive storm hits.
The Prep
Being prepared for a weather-related disaster is key. Here’s how to plan.
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Put together an emergency survival kit. The American Red Cross recommends the following supplies: one gallon of water, flashlights, batteries, battery powered radio, your medications, cell phone with chargers, family contact information, blankets, personal documents, extra cash, and personal hygiene items.
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Create an evacuation plan. In preparation for the worstcase scenario, be sure to have an evacuation plan that everyone in your family is familiar with—this includes pets, too!
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Plan for surge protection. Electrical storms can be super scary—especially when they cause power loss. To ensure your home’s safety, invest in surge protection for your home.
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Invest in a generator. Power outages during or after a storm are not just inconvenient, they can be detrimental to your loved ones’ health—especially if you have elderly family members and you end up losing heat or air conditioning. Being prepared with a generator<LINK TO: /electrical-services/generators> can save lives.
Things to Do During a Storm
Remember these tips in the middle of a storm:
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Stay alert. Keep monitoring news reports and stay tuned in to your local weather station. Know when you should stay and when it is time to leave.
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Keep in touch. Be sure to keep in touch with loved ones or friends who feel you may be in danger. Check on others and be available to help them if you can.
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Unplug extra appliances. To prevent fire hazards or power overloads, unplug any electronics or appliances that could experience damage due to the storm.
The Aftermath
First and foremost, don’t panic. and try to remain calm after a storm leaves you without power. Remember these tips:
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Keep fridge and freezer doors closed. If you lose power, keep your fridge and freezer doors shut. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, food in your fridge can last up to four hours, while freezer items should be good for 48 hours if the freezer is full, or 24 hours if it’s half-full. (And remember the food rule: “When in doubt, throw it out.”)
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Stay away from power lines. This might be a no-brainer but steer clear of any downed power lines or trees they may be touching. Report any downed wires to 911 as soon as possible.
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Avoid flooded areas. Don’t drive in flooded areas. If you experienced water damage in your home, don’t touch any electronics that may have been submerged in water. Call an electrician!
Safety First—Before, During, and After a Storm!
If you’re looking for storm protection before it hits, ARS can help. We offer variety of services to help protect your home from electrical storms and bad power outages. Call us for your electrical services, including any generator services you may need. We’re here to help seven days a week!
