Preparing for the Storm: Essential Tips to Keep Your Family Safe

As a storm approaches, it’s crucial to prepare effectively to ensure the safety and well-being of your family. Whether it’s a hurricane, a severe thunderstorm, or any other type of inclement weather, being ready can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate storm preparations, covering everything from food supplies to emergency power backup systems and communication plans.

Stock Up on Essentials

Food and Water

• Non-perishable Food: Canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, and other non-perishable items are vital. Aim for at least a three-day supply for each family member.
• Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation, with a minimum three-day supply. Bigger damages take your utility providers a while to fix because the damage is widespread and they have limited resources to deal with a larger situation.

Medicine and First Aid

• Medications: Ensure you have an adequate supply of prescription medications. Over-the-counter medicines like pain relievers, antacids, and allergy medications should also be included.
• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, gauze, scissors, tweezers, and other essentials is a must.

Emergency Power Backup Systems

Gas Generators

• Pros: Gas generators are powerful and can run multiple appliances simultaneously, making them ideal for extended power outages.
• Cons: They require fuel, emit fumes, and need to be operated outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Non-Gas Generators

• Battery-Powered: These are quieter and safer for indoor use, though they have a shorter run time compared to gas generators. We provide a vast range of emergency backup power solutions for our clients and if you need help understanding which option works best for you, you can call us, chat with us or email us and one of our experts will gladly help you out.
• Solar Generators: Sustainable and quiet, solar generators are a great option but depend on sunlight availability and may not provide as much power as gas generators.

Communication and Contacts

Family Communication Plan

• Contact Information: Ensure all family members have a list of important phone numbers, including emergency contacts and nearby relatives.
• Meeting Point: Designate a safe location where family members can meet if you get separated during the storm.

Emergency Contacts

• Local Emergency: If you are in North America, as you will know calling 911 is the quickest way to get help.
• Roofing & Fencing Guy: High winds can damage fences, making quick repairs essential to secure your property.
• Arborist: Trees and large branches can pose significant risks during storms. Having an arborist on call can help with immediate removal of dangerous debris.
• Plumber: In case of flooding or water line damage, a reliable plumber can prevent further damage to your home.

Dealing with Potential Basement Flooding

Submersible/Water Pumps

• Submersible Pumps: These are designed to handle water removal in flooded basements. Ensure the pump is in good working order before the storm hits.
• Backup Pumps: Consider having a battery-operated backup pump in case of power outages, ensuring continuous protection against flooding.

Storm Preparation Checklist

1. Food and Water

   • Stock three-day supply of non-perishable food
   • Store one gallon of water per person per day for three days

2. Medicine and First Aid

   • Gather prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines
   • Prepare a well-stocked first aid kit

3. Emergency Power Backup

   • Check gas generator fuel levels and functionality
   • Ensure battery-powered or solar generator is charged

4. Communication

   • Update family contact information
   • Designate a family meeting point

5. Emergency Contacts

   •  Roof and Fence repair contact
   • Arborist for tree removal
   • Plumber for potential water issues

6. Flood Prevention

   • Test submersible/water pumps
   • Prepare battery-operated backup pumps

By following this guide and ensuring all items on your checklist are completed, you'll be better prepared to face the storm. Remember, preparation is key to weathering any storm safely and efficiently. Stay safe!

Comment below on what else are you doing to prepare for storms in your region. Every region sees a different kind of a storm and their preparations will be slightly different. Help a fellow prepper out!