Hurricanes and other severe weather conditions can wreak havoc on your property, leaving storm damage in their wake. Even minor storms can cause major problems. Proper preparation this season is essential, but it’s just as important to know what steps to take after a storm passes through your area.
Do you know what to do after a storm? Read on to learn the top things to do when the storm passes.
- Contact Family and Friends
Family comes first! Contacting your loved ones after the bad weather passes should be an important part of your post-storm plan. Your family and friends may be worried knowing you’ve been in a storm, so contacting them when the danger has passed will help put their minds at ease. - Don’t rush back
Head home to assess hurricane damage only when local authorities say it’s safe to do so. Wait until the flooding has receded sufficiently and roads have been cleared of fallen debris and power lines. - Be prepared with proper safety equipment
Your home may not have power when you return, so bring flashlights and charge your smartphone ahead of time. Also, remember that when hurricane flood waters enter your home, the water may have an unknown level of contaminants. To protect against potential bacteria and mold, wear plenty of N95 masks and gloves during cleanup. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves. Be careful of glass, nails, and other debris that may poke through your shoes or clothing. - Check the exterior for safety hazards and structural damage
Before entering the home, look for evidence of deteriorating power lines, gas line leaks, large tree branches that might have fallen on the roof, or other signs of serious structural damage. If you notice any of these safety hazards, don’t go inside without getting a professional opinion on the structural safety of your home. - Assess the storm damage to your property
Once you’ve contacted your loved ones, you should begin inspecting your property for damage. When it comes to assessing the condition of your home after the storm, make sure you’re taking the proper safety precautions.
Before you head out, it’s essential to check that it’s safe to do so. Stay up to date with local news and weather reports to determine if the storm has passed if you’re going to leave your home to check on damage. Here are some points to keep in mind when assessing your property after a storm:
- Roof issues, such as holes or missing shingles
- Leaking or damaged gutters
- Broken or cracked windows
- Loose or missing fence hardware
- Fallen trees
- Broken light fixtures
- Broken porch or window screens
- Water damage
- Any other issues
- Document everything and contact your insurance agent.
Once you’re inside, take photos of everything before you start cleaning. Walk through the house and take photos or videos of each room carefully, noting any damage to the house itself as well as furniture, electronics, and other personal property. Don’t put off a call to your insurance company’s claims help line. - Address water damage
After major flooding subsides, clean up any debris or storm water residue with a wet-dry vacuum, or a broom and mop. Open windows and use fans (if you have electricity or a generator) to help dry out any moisture that’s built up on walls and floors. Remove and replace any drywall and insulation that’s too wet or damaged. - Clean and disinfect items you can salvage
Depending on how long your home has been flooded, you may be able to salvage cabinets, wood and metal furniture, countertops, and dishes with a little careful cleaning. - Dispose of damaged items properly
Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to save water-damaged upholstered furniture, electronics, and appliances. When you put damaged items out on the curb, make sure to group them appropriately. - Hire Cleaning Services.
Remember that cleaning up after a hurricane can be a long process. At various points you may feel emotionally and physically exhausted. At such times, don’t hesitate to hire a waste removal services company. If you plan to hire companies to help with waste removal or storm or water damage cleanup, research them thoroughly.
Gator Junk Removal is an expert in Junk Removal and Hurricane Debris Removal. Call us today at (305) 922-0353 and ease your fears before and after a storm hits!
