Essential Guide to Outdoor Maintenance During Severe Weather

Severe weather events, such as thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy rainfall, can pose significant risks during outdoor maintenance activities. Understanding and implementing safety measures is crucial to ensure personal safety and prevent property damage.

1. How Can I Safely Perform Outdoor Maintenance During Severe Weather?

Engaging in outdoor maintenance during severe weather is inherently dangerous. It's advisable to postpone such activities until conditions improve. If immediate action is necessary, ensure you have access to real-time weather updates and a clear evacuation plan.

2. What Precautions Should I Take Before Severe Weather Hits?

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure garden furniture, decorations, and other loose items that can become projectiles in high winds. (pge.com)

• Trim Overhanging Branches: Regularly trim trees and branches that could fall on your home or vehicles during a windstorm. (pge.com)

• Inspect Structures: Check windows and doors, and install storm shutters or plywood over windows if extreme winds are in the forecast. (pge.com)

3. How Should I Respond During a Thunderstorm?

• Seek Shelter: Move immediately to a safe location, such as a sturdy building or a vehicle with the windows up, when you hear thunder. (fs.usda.gov)

• Avoid Electrical Equipment: Stay away from windows and avoid using electrical equipment and plumbing during a thunderstorm. (perrycountyal.gov)

• Stay Informed: Keep a battery-powered weather radio or a charged mobile device to receive weather updates.

4. What Are the Dangers of High Winds, and How Can I Protect Myself?

• Secure Loose Items: Bring in or secure garden furniture, decorations, and other loose items that can become projectiles in high winds. (pge.com)

• Stay Indoors: Remain inside a sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors during high winds. (gvec.org)

• Avoid Electrical Equipment: Do not use electrical devices outside during a lightning storm or when it’s raining. (gvec.org)

5. How Can I Prepare for Power Outages During Severe Weather?

• Unplug Sensitive Electronics: Before the storm arrives, unplug sensitive electronic equipment to protect them from power surges. (weather.gov)

• Use Corded Phones: Cordless phones do not work without electricity. Use a corded phone only for emergencies. (weather.gov)

• Keep Refrigerators Closed: Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed—food will stay fresh up to 8 hours. (weather.gov)

6. What Should I Do After the Storm Passes?

• Wait for the All-Clear: Stay in your shelter until at least 30 minutes after the last observed lightning flash or thunder clap. (emergency.princeton.edu)

• Check for Hazards: Inspect your property for downed power lines, fallen trees, or structural damage.

• Report Hazards: Do not touch downed power lines; assume they are live and report them to authorities. (emergency.princeton.edu)

7. How Can I Stay Informed About Severe Weather?

• Monitor Weather Updates: Use reliable sources to stay informed about weather conditions and warnings.

• Sign Up for Alerts: Register for local weather alerts to receive timely information about severe weather events.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can enhance your safety and minimize potential damage during severe weather events.

Highlights:

• A Storm Is Coming - Here's What Experts Say You Should Move Indoors Immediately, Published on Monday, February 16
• Homeowners urged to secure their yards for storms this weekend - here's what to do, Published on Thursday, October 30