Storm or Disaster Preparation

Before a major storm or natural disaster hits, there are several precautions you can take to minimize damage to your home or business. Read on for tips on preparing for a storm, steps to take as a storm becomes imminent, and what to do immediately after the storm subsides. Learn more.

Residential Preparation

• Stock up on non-perishables, such as canned goods.
• Make sure that you have adequate medical supplies and refill any critical prescriptions.
• Keep any areas surrounding electrical service equipment clear.
• Turn the temperature controls on your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting to keep food cold on the event of power outage.
• Fill several large containers and your bath tub with water.
• Keep flashlights, batteries, candles and matches on hand throughout the house.
• Fill your car with gas.
• Secure any boats early.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind-resistant.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, trashcans and anything else that is not tied down.
• If you have special needs, such as life support equipment, be prepared in case you lose power.
• If you have a home medical device, make sure your device will still work during a power outage, or have a back-up plan in place.
• Stay tuned to local weather forecast for storm updates and have a battery-powered radio available.

Severe Weather or Hurricane Warnings

• Tape, board or shutter windows and glass doors.
• Secure all outdoor objects that could became airborne under high winds.
• Wedge sliding glass doors to prevent them from lifting from their tracks.
• In the winter, close off unused rooms to conserve heat, open curtains and shades to let sunlight in and close them at night. Stock up on firewood.
• Leave your home if authorities order an evacuation, especially if your homes is in an area that floods easily.

After the Storm

• Take photographs of all damage before repairs and keep receipts for insurance.
• Avoid downed or dangling utility wires.
• If your house has been damaged, contact the Inspection Services Division (ISD) to request an inspection.

Business and Commercial Preparation

• Always protect your data with backup files.
• Make plans to work with limited cash, no water, sewer or power for few days.
• Protect your employees by providing shelter to employees and their families, if possible.
• Review your insurance coverage and be aware that flood damage requires separate coverage.
• Check your disaster supplies kit.
• Secure property by tying down any items that could become airborne under high winds, like lawn furniture, potted plants and trashcans.
• Fill fleet cars and equipment gas tanks.

Severe Weather or Hurricane Warnings

• Tape, board or shutter windows and glass doors. If you do not have impact-resistant windows, install shutters or plywood to cover glass.
• Cover and move equipment to a secure area.
• Secure all outdoor objects that could became airborne by high winds.

After the Storm

• Use caution before entering your business. Check for power lines, gas leaks and structural damage. If any electrical equipment is wet, contact an electrician.
• Take photographs of all damage before repairs and keep receipts for insurance.
• Avoid downed or dangling utility wires.
• After assessing damage to your facility, contact the Inspection Services Division (ISD) to request an inspection.