As the Scouts Say, “Be Prepared”, For Severe Weather That is!
When most of us think of being ready for severe weather, several standard things come to mind, including shelter and supplies. A well thought out emergency plan will cover more than just survival and should include everything you need to get your life back to normal, or as close as possible.
Emergency Plans
You should have a written plan, known to all family members outlining how they should react, if possible, following extreme severe weather, or other disasters. You need to know where you will take shelter, what you need to take with you, and how to respond to home damages and other situations following the incident. Store a copy of your plan, along with other needed documents, emergency cash and supplies in an emergency kit. Find out more here: http://www.ok.gov/reddirtready/PREPARE/index.html
Shelter
If you can afford it, you should add a shelter to your home, if you don’t already have one. There are many reputable storm shelter manufacturers who can supply a variety of solutions. Traditional shelters have been underground, but new above ground construction techniques have made grade level safe rooms more practical than ever. Make sure you have enough room for your family, with a reinforced exit, that is directly under overhead hazards that can fall and trap you inside.
Inspection
Inspecting your property periodically can help spot repairs that need to be made. Many times, a little preventive repair or maintenance can make your home more storm worthy and able to survive rough weather. Tighten up any loose exterior features, especially on the roof and around doors and windows. Make note of damage that already exists, so that you can better respond to questions, or refusal to pay from the insurance company due to existing damage.
Insurance
In addition to inspecting your property, you should know your insurance policy. Besides knowing your coverage amounts, and deductible. You should also have a clear understanding of your policies limitations, exclusions and other features and clauses. Make changes to coverage as needed before rough weather comes to ensure you will be covered from the storm.
Warranty
Know what to expect from your roof and home warranties. Most do not cover repairs, only materials. Many times additional coverage can be had for a little extra. Find out what is and isn’t covered before the issue becomes a problem. Here is some more information from an older post of ours: http://hailandwind.com/roof_warranties/
