How to Stay Safe When Severe Storms Are in the Forecast | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, SERVPRO of Alamo Heights will respond quickly to assist in any repairs.

Not only can severe storms cause serious damage to an area, but they can also be extremely dangerous for those that are in their path. Preparing yourself for storm damage is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe, which is much easier if you keep some must-know tips in mind.

By understanding watches and warnings, making sure you are fully prepared at home and having a way to get any emergency alerts, you can significantly increase how safe you will be should severe weather strike.

Know the Difference Between Watches and Warnings

When severe weather is a possibility in your area, it is vital that you understand the difference between a watch and a warning in order to make sure you can react appropriately. A thunderstorm watch means that there is a potential for severe storms to develop, but one has not been picked up on the radar. Conversely, a warning means that a thunderstorm is imminent or occurring in the area, and precautions such as seeking shelter should immediately be taken.

Prepare Your Household for the Threat

If you are home when a thunderstorm warning is issued, you should absolutely stay there unless local officials say there is a need to evacuate. In order to do this comfortably, make sure your home is prepared. Stock up on batteries and flashlights, water and non-perishables and have a plan in place for where to go in the house in case officials advise residents to seek shelter—a hallway or closet will generally work best. You should also make sure that you have adequate first-aid supplies in case of emergencies.

Be Aware of Emergency Shelters and Have a Way to Get Alerts

In the event of extremely severe conditions, you may need to seek help from a local shelter or be required to evacuate, so having a way to stay connected for important weather alerts is wise. While most people will primarily use their smartphone for this, they can become unreliable during bad weather so many people prefer to purchase a crank-powered NOAA Weather Radio as a sure-fire way to receive alerts in case of an emergency.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to get a quick response to your home’s damages.