Create an Emergency Home Kit for Severe Weather

Springtime brings with it lots of changes in the weather. As we look ahead to pleasant temperatures, we also must be ready to face certain problems. As warm fronts move across the United States, they bring with them the chance for severe weather. Is your family ready in case storms, wind, hail and more strike your home?

We often don’t think about the effects of severe weather before it’s too late. After all, these storms are usually temporary occurrences that end rather quickly. However, even short storms have the potential to create extreme damage. Therefore, when a worst-case scenario develops, it is best to have a plan in place. Careful preparation can help you get control of the damage a severe storm might cause.

Start Early With Severe Weather Planning

Most people don’t worry about severe storms. In many cases, this is completely fine. These storms blow through and might leave a few down power lines and broken branches in their wakes.

However, what about the times when the most severe weather threatens? Even thunderstorms can create high winds, flooding rains, hail and other damaging phenomena. It’s not great to think about, but if the right storm strikes the right place, the results could be crippling. All homeowners should have an emergency kit in place in case of devastating storms.

• Find your copy of your homeowner’s insurance policy. Keep a hard copy and electronic copy. That way, you’ll be able to pull it out if you need to examine it or file a damage claim.
• Check to see how your policy covers storm damage. Will its limits provide enough money for substantial repairs following weather damage? Does the policy exclude any weather damage? Talk to your insurance agent to find out more about your specific protection.
• Does anyone in your family have special medical needs? Assemble a first aid kit containing items like bandages, pain medication or antiseptic. Make sure you keep medication or medical equipment in safe places. Keep emergency contact numbers for hospitals and doctors in the first aid kit.
• If you lose power, having a stock of candles, batteries and even a generator might help. You won’t have to worry about being in the dark or supporting critical systems.
• Keep a battery pack or remote power source on hand. It might help you power connected devices like computers or smartphones. Use surge protectors when connecting these items. You do not want a power surge to damage them.
• Secure your food stock, and have non-perishable food on hand. In the event of prolonged power outages, you might need to throw out perishable items. It's best to keep other items on hand for convenience.

Keep a close watch on the forecast of your area at all times. Should severe weather threaten, move to a safe place and wait out the storm. Monitor the weather periodically to see if it poses significant damage threats.

To learn more about how Dakkak Insurance can help you protect what matters most, contact us or call to speak with an agent at 877-921-6630.