Storm Safety And Preparedness

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Most residents in the area have complained about Northeast Tennessee’s unpredictable weather. Between the wind patterns and humidity, storms can intensify quickly. It’s important to regularly maintain your residential, commercial, or public building because damaging weather conditions, specifically high winds, and heavy rainfall, are possible any time of the year.

The best time to prepare for a severe summer storm is before it happens. Storms move fast or change course, leaving less time to get ready. Make sure you’re ready in advance by reviewing your emergency plan and preparing your home and business. Northeast Tennessee property owners can take these preventative measures to help reduce damage from destructive summer storms.

• Clean gutters and drains.
• Ensure downspouts and other water run-off is directed away from the foundation.
• Cut down or trim trees in danger of falling.
• Bring in or secure lightweight outdoor items.
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container.
• Move valuables and electronics to higher levels.
• Review insurance policies and make sure personal documents are up to date.
• Plan how to access the latest information ahead of the storm and have multiple ways to get warnings.
• Assemble a disaster supply kit that includes food and water, medicine/prescriptions, batteries, flashlights, phone chargers, and have cash on hand.
• Only run diesel generators outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Fill up your vehicle’s gas tank prior to a hurricane and move it to a safe location.
• Cover windows with shutters or plywood before strong hurricanes to protect against flying debris.
• Develop a hurricane evacuation plan and have a supplies bag packed. Know your local evacuation zone in case you are ordered to evacuate quickly.
• Plan for your pets.
• Have SERVPRO of Washington County‘s phone number, (423)434-0046, saved in your contacts in case your home or business experiences property damage.