As we head into severe weather season, it is a good idea to give your home a quick checkup before dangerous weather strikes.
House and Property Checkup
How secure is your home against storms? Are your deck and porch anchored securely? What about flooding issues? Will your windows and doors withstand high winds or the impact of debris? Have trees and large bushes been trimmed to avoid contact with the house and garage? You also need to make sure any loose, dead, or overgrown branches have been removed so they don’t fall onto your house or car, break windows, or get thrown by the wind and cause injury. Also, make sure you have material available to cover windows, skylights, and especially sliding glass doors if necessary.
Insurance Checkup
Having homeowner’s insurance is obviously an important part of owning a home, but knowing how much and what type of coverage you have is even more important. If your insurance does not cover injury due to weather, storm damage, the contents of your home, items on your property, and flooding, you need to re-evaluate your policy. Even if these things are covered, it’s a good idea to make sure they are adequately covered. Ask your insurance agent for advice concerning additional coverage that may be necessary.
Safe Area Checkup
Do you have a safe place in your home to seek shelter from storms? The basement or a room with no exterior walls is best, and a space that has no windows is even better. It is also wise to make sure that this area is stocked with emergency items, like a radio, flashlight, batteries, necessary medications, first aid items, drinking water, snacks, blankets, and a few (secured) hand tools. Now is the time to make sure batteries are fresh and flashlights are in working order.
Safety Plan Checkup
Sit down with your family members and make sure each person knows what to do and where to go in case of severe weather. Explain that they should try to stay calm while moving to the safe area. Conduct a severe weather drill to make sure everyone can follow the plan, and to see if any aspects of the plan need revising.