Alabama weather is unpredictable and often frightening. One rule of thumb, however, in managing the chaos that comes with hurricanes, storms or tornadoes: preparation is essential.
Here are seven things you can do inside and seven things you can do outside your home to be prepared.
Indoor Preparations
- Prepare an emergency safety kit that includes a first aid kit, non-perishable food, bottled water, and battery-operated chargers for any devices your family uses.
- Invest in an NOAA weather radio to accompany your emergency kit.
- Identify the safest place inside your home, which is often the most interior space on the bottom level of a home, such as a basement. If you have a storm shelter, now is the time to ensure it’s clean and ready in case of an emergency.
- Become familiar with the settings on your refrigerator. If you anticipate power outages, set the temperature lower than you usually would so that food doesn’t have as long of an opportunity to spoil.
- Review your insurance policies and see if any updates are needed. Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to make any changes and know what you’re covered for in terms of loss or damage.
- Gather important papers and have them ready in a “go kit.” Keep these papers in a waterproof or fireproof container and have it ready to grab in case of an emergency evacuation.
- Take inventory of essential items within your home. Doing so helps you recall what possessions were in each room of your home in case items are damaged or lost in a severe weather event.
Outdoor Preparations
- Inspect trees around your home for potential problems. Low-hanging limbs or sickly trees could present issues if high winds or tornadoes are present.
- Clean out your gutters to prevent any debris or moisture from accompanying rains.
- Inspect your roof for any issues, and be sure to contact a professional if you have any problems or need repairs.
- Have a plan for any outdoor furniture. High winds can cause outdoor furniture or other items to become projectiles. Either keep objects in a storage shed or tie them down to make your yard safer.
- Check and replace worn-out weather stripping on all doors. Leaves, water, and bugs can often wash inside after particularly heavy rainfall.
- Provide shelter or outdoor pets or animals. If you keep any pets outside, you should provide sturdy refuge for them in the event of a weather emergency.
- Maintain your vehicle if you have to leave your home quickly. In counties further south, this means preparing your car or truck if a hurricane comes within a close distance of where you live.
Storm season doesn’t have to be scary if you and your family are prepared for any damage that might occur. It is better to be safe than sorry.
If you do need repair or replacement of energy-efficient items or generators for your home, or if you would like to know more about HVAC, electrical or Smart Home services, be sure to contact one of our Smart Financing providers in your area.
