Thursday, May 31, 2012



Protecting Yourself and Your Property During Severe Weather


When a storm is headed your way, what can you do to help protect yourself, your business and your home from severe weather? Knowing the difference between a storm watch and a storm warning will help you know when to seek shelter. By taking a few simple precautions as storm season is upon us, you can help minimize the potential for storm-related property damage; however if your home or business does sustain damage, it is important to know where to turn for prompt, professional help.

Although violent storms can strike anytime, the spring and summer months typically mark an increase in the threat of sudden, severe storms that sometime include wind, rain, lightning and even hail damage.

Authorities issue a storm 'watch' when the potential for severe weather exists. A storm 'warning' will be issued when danger from a storm is imminent. The following tips will prepare you to better protect yourself and your property when a storm is on the horizon.
  • Put a communication plan in place and prepare an emergency supply kit, including a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio. Social Media such as Twitter and Facebook are growing trends for emergency communication. Even emergency responders are using social media to update the public on need-to-know information.
  •  Postpone outdoor activites; secure outdoor objects that could become airborne.
  • Don't use corded phones or any appliances that are "plugged in." Use cell or cordless phones instead.
  • Seek shelter in a home, building or hard top automobile. The steel frame of a vehicle - not the rubber tires - can help protect you from a lightning strike if you avoid touching metal or other conductive surfaces.
  • Avoid windows and doors, don't lie on concrete floors or lean on concrete walls, and stay off of porches.
  • If you are outside when a storm hits, seek shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid small isolated structures in open areas and steer clear of hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on water.
After the Storm:
  • Avoid storm-damaged areas. Stay away from downed power lines and never try to drive through a flooded roadway.
  • Replenish your emergency supplies and repair property damage promptly, before the next storm strikes.
HOW SERVPRO of Sarpy County can help in the event you suffer any type of property damage from a storm:
  • 24 Hour Emergency Response at 402.291.3355
  • Emergency Boardups to secure your property from further damage, your valuables from theft and also to protect others from unsafe conditions that may exist.
  • Category 3 Cleanup in the event that dirt, debris or other contaminates come inside the property.
  • Contents Packout, Contents Cleaning and Contents Storage.
  • Water Remediation
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