5 Severe Weather Tips for Homeowners
In Michigan we don’t often have to worry about many severe weather disasters – we’re lucky to avoid tsunamis and hurricanes, and tornadoes, fires and earthquakes are few and far between. But especially during the spring and summer months, the chance for thunderstorms, hail, damaging winds, and the occasional tornado do increase. So, what to do when those severe weather patterns strike? We’ve got the top tips from REALTORS® to keep your family and your home safe.
Make emergency plans for your home.
Ready.gov has an amazing guide for making an emergency plan for your home. They break it down in to four easy steps:
- Discuss key questions: How will I receive emergency alerts? What is my shelter plan? What is my evacuation route? What is my family communication plan?
- Consider specific household needs: ages, access needs, barriers, dietary needs, religious considerations, pets, etc.
- Fill out a Family Emergency Plan
- Practice your plan with the family/household
Research Insurance Options
It surprises so many homeowners every year, but your current home insurance policy may not cover you in the event of some natural disasters and weather events. Consider if your home is in a flood zone, if the area is prone to high winds, etc, and address this accordingly with your insurance company. If you’re ready to explore other insurance options, your REALTOR® is an excellent resource!
Create an Emergency Kit
In the event of an emergency, you won’t always have time to gather necessary items, severe weather often strikes fast. Taking the time now to create an emergency kit will save you precious moments and could help to keep your family safe. We recommend these essentials:
- Non-perishable foods – ideally a 3-day supply for each person
- Filtered or bottled water – ideally a gallon per person per day for at least 3 days
- Lantern, candles, or flashlights
- Battery powered or hand crank radio
- Extra batteries (consider for flashlights or cell phones)
- Basic tools to turn off utilities
- Cell Phone chargers
- Local maps
- First aid kit
- Blankets or extra clothing
Also consider your individual needs – if medication is necessary, do not forget to include this. Copies of important family documents can also come in handy – be sure they are protected from the elements. And finally, if you have pets, do not forget their essentials!
Clean Up and Seal Your Home
Especially in the event of high winds or rain and flooding, cleaning up and sealing your home from the outside can provide a lot of protection. You want to inspect and clean out all gutters and downspouts to allow water to properly flow away from your home. Seal small cracks with caulking to prevent water from getting in through those areas. Check trees for signs of weakness – it may be best to remove them before they can come down on or around your home.
After Severe Weather
- When severe weather has passed, you may need to process, clean up, or restore your home. Be sure to consult professionals when appropriate and take necessary safety precautions.
- Always assume any down power lines are live and thus dangerous.
- Contact your utilities to turn off or restore services as needed like natural gas, electricity and water.
- Do not venture in to flood waters, even if they appear shallow or safe.
We hope that severe weather does not strike, but in the event it does, remember, your REALTOR® is a great resource for you to find professionals that can help rebuild or repair, to find community opportunities, and ultimately, to be a sounding board for you on all matters of your home.