In today’s world, it seems natural disaster can strike at any moment. You should expect the unexpected and be weather aware. Our community has experienced Hurricane Ike in 2008, hailstorms in 2011, Memorial Day tornados 2019 and the February 2021 ice storm, to name a few. Tornados, hurricanes and severe winter weather can have detrimental effects on your home and safety which is why it’s important to take necessary precautions.

While certain disasters necessitate specific materials or prepared actions, a lot of emergency materials are universally helpful after a disaster. Discuss things like general communication plans, escape and evacuation routes. Keep emergency supplies such as non-perishable food, drinking water, AM/FM radio, batteries, first aid kit, medication, flashlight, extra money, blankets, etc. Store a bag containing items such as important documents, extra sets of keys, copies of credit/ATM cards or cash. Having a large tarp to cover damage to your home and temporarily dry-in can be essential in times of high demand for these types of materials.

Create and maintain an inventory of your personal possessions. Use a camera to take pictures or video of both the interior and exterior of your home, as well as your property, including items stored on your property, such as vehicles or lawn/farm equipment. Maintain receipts for all major items. This documentation should be saved in a safe place outside your home, such as in a safe deposit box or use an online cloud storage service to store files or data.

Take note of your insurance policy regarding storm damage and natural disasters. Review your coverage annually to make sure it’s adequate. Discuss with your insurance agent what liabilities you might have, if any, should any of your personal items or trees cause damage to neighboring properties.

Keep in mind, with disaster comes disaster repair. Disaster victims shouldn’t have to worry if their contracting services are going to be reliable in the aftermath of an emergency. They also shouldn’t feel forced to make quick decisions. Contact your insurance adjuster immediately to get the ball rolling and document all conversations with your insurance company or the adjuster. Document the damage to your property; take pictures or video, if possible.

If your home is unlivable, contact your utility company to turn off your water, gas and/or electric services. Do not make any permanent repairs until you get approval from your insurance company. Beware of contractors who may ask you to sign an agreement to allow them to contact your insurance company on your behalf. Check to make sure contractors are properly licensed and insured. Turn to contractors you can trust, such as BBB Accredited Businesses like Solid Rock Roofing.

You can get additional recommendations at www.ready.gov, the Department of Homeland Security’s disaster preparedness website.