Thunderstorm Safety
No matter where you live you will at some point encounter a storm. Most of the time thunderstorms are pretty mild. You’ll typically see a lot of rain mixed in with a little thunder and lightening. Usually, we all just go about our normal routine and ignore the weather, only we’ve got an umbrella in our hand. However, sometimes thunderstorms can be severe and devastating. Occasionally we get storms that have high speed winds, severe thunder and lightening, hail, and very heavy rain. These can often be dangerous and even cause damage to our property. Here are some ways to prepare your home for this storm season:
Always keep a battery powered radio in your home and make sure that you have charged batteries ready to use.
Keep flashlights in easily accessible spots on all floors of your home. Check the batteries periodically and change when needed. It is always good to have some candles and a lighter on hand as well.
Build a storm safety kit that has items such as water, canned foods, flashlights, batteries, matches, first aid kit, etc. If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, flooding, or tornados your safety kit should have enough food and water to sustain your family for 3 days.
Do not use corded electronics during a thunderstorm. This includes corded phones, computers, and appliances. Lightening is more prone to strike these types of items.
Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off of porches.
Pay attention to the large trees that surround your home. If any of them seem like a threat when winds are blowing or rain is heavy, have them cut down and removed. If the storm is bad enough it will cause trees to fall, which could cause major damage to your home.
Avoid water. It’s a great conductor of electricity, so do not take a shower, wash your hands, wash dishes, or do laundry.
Thunderstorms are a normal part of nature and will occur no matter where you live. There is no way to avoid them so your only option is to be prepared. Although, sometimes all the preparation in the world is not enough. You can rest easy knowing that ServiceMaster by Bailey is here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We can handle any storm, water, or fire damage and give you the peace of mind you need in the face of disaster.