Hail storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, or floods- harsh weather conditions are a fact of life if you are a resident of Texas. It is crucial for every homeowner to stay prepared for natural disasters, especially storms.
Many people living in Texas have a fear of fire damage, while specialists tell that water damage is more likely to happen. Well, if you moved to Texas and have heard many stories from its residents about the storm damages that caused millions of dollars worth of property damage.
Below is a free guide for storm preparation that will be helpful for you when the extreme weather rolls in Texas. Getting your house prepared before a storm passes can help you prevent any further damage to your home.
Here are the tips to prepare your Texas home for a storm:
- Shield Glass: Purchase good quality marine plywood or storm shutters and install them properly to protect glass doors, windows, and skylights during a storm.
- Shelter Car: If you need to evacuate or leave your vehicle behind, store it in the carport or on the higher ground. You should park it on a low-lying street or a tree where it could be affected by water.
- Shut off the Water System: If you want to avoid contamination, it is necessary to close the water supplying system. Turning the water valve clockwise through a wrench will shut the water off.
- Unplug Electronics: Your house can cause potential damages due to an electrical surge. Thus, you should unplug household appliances and electronic devices. You should not rely on surge protectors to safeguard them.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: In case of evacuation, it is important to prepare an emergency kit. Pack non-perishable food, medication, water, flashlight, first aid kit as well as batteries.
- Take Photographs Of The Damage: Take photographs or record any damage caused to your house and belongings- before opting for claims with any reliable insurance company. This will help you protect your residential property without bearing any huge financial loss.
- Keep Your Heavy-Duty Items Secured: It is important to store your heavy-duty items such as motorcycles and boats, following the same protocols as in your car. You can tie your boat securely in the water and remove the motors as well as small objects.
- Switch off the Gas: If you smell gas after the storm, you need to switch off the gas lines immediately as there can be leakage. You can call a gas company to get immediate guidance on how to take precautionary steps to avoid further damages.
The Bottom Line
By following the above-mentioned recommendations, you can keep yourself and your house a little safer during a stronger storm or any natural disaster. You just need to remember that the prevention you take can help you save lives- involving yours, your family members, and your dear ones’ lives.