After-Storm Safety: Essential Steps to Protect Yourself and Your Property

Experiencing a storm can be unsettling, but taking the right steps afterward can significantly reduce risks and aid in a swift recovery. Here's a comprehensive guide to after-storm safety:

1. How Can You Ensure Personal Safety After a Storm?

Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official channels for updates on weather conditions and safety advisories.

Avoid Flooded Areas: Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep your vehicle away. (ready.gov)

Stay Away from Downed Power Lines: Assume all downed lines are live. Report them immediately to authorities.

Wait for Official All-Clear: Only venture outside when local authorities confirm it's safe.

2. What Should You Do to Protect Your Home and Property?

Inspect for Damage: Once it's safe, check your property for damage. Look for missing shingles, broken windows, or structural issues. Document all findings with photos for insurance purposes. (modernize.com)

Secure Hazardous Materials: Store gasoline, kerosene, and other flammable liquids away from heat sources and out of reach of children. (kidde.com)

Check for Gas Leaks: If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and contact emergency services.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Ensure that storm debris hasn't blocked exhaust flues or ducts for appliances such as chimneys, water heaters, ranges, and clothes dryers. (kidde.com)

3. How Can You Safely Restore Utilities and Services?

Power Restoration: Wait for utility companies to restore power. Avoid using candles; opt for battery-powered flashlights instead.

Water Supply: If your water supply was disrupted, use bottled water or boil water before consumption until authorities declare it safe.

Heating Systems: Before using heating systems, ensure they are free from damage and have been inspected for safety.

4. What Are the Best Practices for Post-Storm Cleanup?

Wear Protective Gear: Use sturdy gloves, boots, and masks to protect against debris and potential contaminants.

Avoid Standing Water: Stay clear of standing water, as it may contain hazardous materials or be electrically charged.

Dispose of Contaminated Items: Items soaked in floodwater, such as mattresses or upholstered furniture, should be discarded to prevent mold growth.

Document Damages: Take detailed photos of all damages for insurance claims and potential assistance programs.

5. How Can You Prepare for Future Storms?

Create an Emergency Plan: Establish a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, communication strategies, and a designated meeting place.

Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.

Stay Educated: Regularly review and update your preparedness plans based on the latest information and resources.

By following these guidelines, you can enhance your safety and resilience in the aftermath of a storm.

Highlights:

• Thunderstorms & Lightning | Ready.gov, Published on Wednesday, July 09
• Floods | Ready.gov, Published on Thursday, May 08
• Storm Safety Guide: How to Protect Your Home Before, During & After, Published on Thursday, January 22