Severe weather can occur at any time, no matter where you live! Understanding the dangers and taking the proper precautions are crucial to protect your home from damage and keep your family safe in the event of a weather related emergency. Check out the links below to find out how to prepare for severe weather and deal with the aftermath of a natural disaster.
Power Outages
We take electricity for granted in our homes, so when a loss of power occurs, it can come as a real shock! A generator can be worth its weight in gold when your home goes dark.
- Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home
- How to Use a Portable Generator Safely
- Installing a Whole House Generator for Your Home
Lightning and Solar Storms
Lightning can not only damage electronic equipment, it can cause fires that can destroy your home. Powerful solar storms can knock out communications and the power grid.
- Tips on Controlling Power Surges
- How to Protect Your Home from Solar Storms
- Lightning Protection for Home Appliances and Electronics
Wind Damage
Whether from a thunderstorm, hurricane, or tornado; high winds can damage roofs and rip off siding. Find out what you can do to protect your home before it’s too late!
- How to Make Your Home More Wind Resistant
- Dealing with Storm Damage to Your Home
- How to Make Roofing More Wind Resistant
- Reinforcing a Home Against Wind Damage
- How to Protect a Garage Door from Wind Damage
Hurricanes
From high winds to severe flooding, hurricanes often cause extensive damage along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic Seaboard. Find out how to protect your home from wind damage, and what you should have on hand before a hurricane hits.
- Top 10 Hurricane Myths Debunked
- How to Prepare for a Hurricane
- Home Hurricane Preparation Tips
- Boarding Up: Hurricane Storm Panels for Your Home
- Fabric Storm Panels: Hurricane Protection for Your Home
- How to Prepare for a Hurricane at the Last Minute
- Top 5 Must Do’s After a Hurricane Damages Your Home
Floods
Flooding can be caused by prolonged heavy rain as well as the storm surge from a hurricane. Check to see if your house is in a flood plain, and purchase flood insurance if it is.
- How to Protect Valuable Possessions from Water Damage
- Protecting Your Home from Water Damage and Flooding
- Dealing with Mold and Mildew After a Hurricane or Flood
Tornadoes
Unlike hurricanes, tornadoes can strike with little warning in a matter of minutes. If you live in a tornado-prone area, a storm shelter is your best line of defense. Storm shelters can be underground or built as a safe room in your home.
- How to Prepare Your Home for a Tornado
- Dealing with Storm Damage to Trees
- How to Attach a Tarp to a Storm Damaged Roof
Snow and Ice Storms
Snow and ice storms are a fact of life in the North, and can even occur as far as the deep South. They often result in tree damage and a lack of power, so having a generator on hand is a good precaution.
- How to Protect Your Home During Extreme Cold Weather
- Using Deicers and Anti-Icers on Sidewalks and Driveways
- How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Home
Homeowners Insurance
It’s important to make sure your home is properly covered by insurance from damage caused by wind, water, and fire before a storm strikes. Read your insurance policy carefully and make sure you understand what’s covered and make an inventory of your possessions to use for claims.