Tips for Storm Safety

8/12/2024 (Permalink)

Summer is a time for outdoor fun, but summer can also mean storm season in many areas. Storms can be unpredictable and cause a lot of damage. These tips can help you stay safe when mother nature brings her worst.

1. Track the major storms: Hurricanes are some of the worst storms. With heavy wind and catastrophic flooding, hurricanes can be dangerous and devastating. Even if the storm is far from where you are, you should follow its track and have a plan to see if you need to take the necessary action to avoid it.
2. Storm-proof your home or business. Check the grading around your property to help reduce flooding when possible. Check all doors including garage and bay doors to ensure that they are in good working order and inspect windows for loose panes or old caulking.
3. Talk with your insurance carrier. Are you up to date on your policy if anything were to happen during and after a storm?
4. Unplug outlets before the storm hits. Check to see if there is anything electrical that should be unplugged before a storm to prevent damage from an electrical surge.
5. Use a surge protector.  Surge protectors are an easy and cheap way to protect equipment in your home against power surges that could happen at any time.
6. Label your electrical panel. Making your electrical panel easy to navigate is a smart way for quick access when needed.
7. Install a generator. A generator can reduce the impact of a storm by keeping the electricity on. Make sure it’s well-maintained and ready to start when the power goes out.  
8. Be careful with lightning. Lighting strikes around 300 million volts and about 30,000 amps. If lightning is predicted stay inside and in a safe area.  
9. Check for damage after a storm.  When it’s safe, take a walk around your property to ensure no damage has been created by the recent storm. Look over all areas including in the yard for possible downed powerlines.
10. Do not attempt to fix your electricity on your own.  Report power outages to the power company and contact a licensed electrician to check/repair any damage to your wiring or business equipment.