Recent Storm Damage Posts
How SERVPRO® Leads the Way in Storm Damage Recovery
9/11/2024 (Permalink)
We delve into the essential role SERVPRO plays in storm damage recovery and why choosing a professional restoration service is crucial.
Storms can wreak havoc on homes and businesses in Arlington, Texas, leaving behind significant damage that requires immediate attention. SERVPRO® plays a pivotal role in storm damage recovery, providing comprehensive restoration services to help you get back on your feet quickly. In this blog, we’ll delve into the essential role SERVPRO plays in storm damage recovery and why choosing a professional restoration service is crucial for effective and efficient recovery.
Rapid Response and Assessment
When a storm hits, every minute counts. SERVPRO understands the urgency of the situation and offers a rapid response to storm damage. Our team is available 24/7, ready to assess the damage and create a tailored recovery plan. Quick assessment and action are crucial to minimizing further damage and setting the stage for a successful recovery.
Comprehensive Restoration Services
SERVPRO provides a wide range of restoration services that cover every aspect of storm damage recovery. From water extraction and drying to debris removal and structural repairs, our team is equipped to handle it all. We also specialize in mold remediation, ensuring that your property is not only restored but also safe from potential health hazards.
Advanced Technology and Techniques
Utilizing advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment, SERVPRO ensures efficient and effective storm damage recovery. Our techniques are designed to thoroughly address damage and prevent future issues. This includes the use of industrial-grade dehumidifiers, moisture meters, and air movers to ensure complete drying and restoration of affected areas.
Expertise and Experience
With decades of experience in the restoration industry, SERVPRO has the expertise needed to tackle even the most challenging storm damage scenarios. Our team is trained and certified in storm damage recovery, adhering to industry standards and best practices. This expertise translates into high-quality restoration services that you can trust.
Insurance Assistance
Navigating insurance claims can be daunting after a storm. SERVPRO assists with the insurance process, working directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process. Our detailed documentation and timely communication help ensure a smoother and more efficient claims experience.
Proven Results
According to a report by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), effective mitigation strategies can reduce the costs of disaster recovery by up to 75 percent. SERVPRO’s comprehensive approach to storm damage recovery not only restores your property but also helps mitigate future risks, saving you time and money in the long run.
Community Commitment
At SERVPRO, we are committed to supporting our communities in times of need. Our local teams are dedicated to providing prompt and professional storm damage recovery services, helping to rebuild and restore communities after devastating storms.
Conclusion
SERVPRO plays a critical role in storm damage recovery, offering rapid response, comprehensive services, and expert assistance to ensure your property is restored to its pre-storm condition. Trust SERVPRO to handle your storm damage recovery with professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to quality. Contact us today to learn more about our storm damage recovery services and how we can help you recover quickly and efficiently.
Weathering the Storm: Safety Measures During Lightning Storms
5/14/2024 (Permalink)
As majestic as lightning may appear from a distance, its power and unpredictability make it one of nature's most formidable forces. Lightning storms can strike suddenly and with devastating consequences, posing serious risks to both life and property. In this blog, we'll explore essential safety measures to follow during lightning storms, ensuring the protection of yourself, your loved ones, and your home.
Understanding the Threat
Lightning is a powerful electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms, resulting from the buildup of static electricity within clouds. When this electrical charge is discharged, it seeks the path of least resistance to the ground, often striking trees, buildings, or other elevated objects in its path. Lightning strikes can cause fires, structural damage, and even fatalities, making it essential to take precautions when thunderstorms are in the forecast.
Safety Measures
- Monitor Weather Forecasts: Stay informed about weather conditions in your area by monitoring local weather forecasts and alerts. If thunderstorms are predicted, take proactive steps to prepare for the possibility of lightning strikes.
- Seek Shelter Indoors: When thunderstorms are imminent, seek shelter indoors in a sturdy, enclosed building. Avoid taking shelter in small sheds, picnic shelters, or other structures that do not provide adequate protection from lightning.
- Avoid Open Areas: If you are outdoors when a thunderstorm approaches, seek shelter immediately. Avoid open fields, hilltops, and other exposed areas where you may be the tallest object and at increased risk of being struck by lightning.
- Stay Away from Water: Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, increasing the risk of injury or death from lightning strikes. Avoid swimming, boating, or bathing during thunderstorms, and seek shelter indoors until the storm passes.
- Avoid Electrical Devices: Lightning can cause power surges and electrical fires, so it's essential to avoid using electrical devices during thunderstorms. Unplug appliances and electronics to prevent damage from lightning strikes or power surges.
- Wait for the All-Clear: After the last clap of thunder has sounded, wait at least 30 minutes before venturing outdoors. Lightning can strike from a distance of up to 10 miles away from the center of a thunderstorm, so it's essential to wait until the threat has passed entirely.
Lightning storms are a powerful force of nature that demands respect and caution. By following these safety measures during thunderstorms, you can reduce the risk of injury or damage from lightning strikes and keep yourself and your loved ones safe during inclement weather. Remember, when it comes to lightning, it's better to err on the side of caution and seek shelter indoors until the storm has passed completely.
Prepare for Hurricane Season
5/2/2022 (Permalink)
Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
Atlantic hurricane season runs roughly from June 1 thru November 30 each year, with September holding the spot for the peak hurricane month. While, technically, hurricanes can wreak havoc any time of the year, this is the time to be on your guard the most. With that said, there are several ways to prepare for these storms during the off-season so you are not caught unawares.
Stock Up on Essentials
You'll want to prepare for the loss of electricity and the ability to cook by stocking up on water, bread, non-perishables, and items you can eat without heating. Also, make sure you have:
- Extra batteries for flashlights or headlamps,
- Portable chargers and cables for cell phones,
- Candles with matches.
Check Your Insurance
If you live in a hurricane-prone region, make sure your insurance covers flooding and other expenses you may incur because of a Texas hurricane.
Make a Video of Your Home
If your home is damaged from hurricane winds and water, a home inventory video will help prove the pre-storm state of your home and make insurance claims processing easier. It would also be beneficial to make electronic versions of important documents related to your home and your personal information in case the originals are destroyed in the storm. Include digital files of documents such as your:
- Birth certificate
- Driver's license
- Home's deed
- Social security card
Protect Your Property
Install hurricane shutters or plywood of at least 3/4 inches in thickness. You may need to install hurricane clips to secure the roof of your home to the walls. This is important in areas that may receive a direct hit, and install foot and head bolts on all doors.
Make an Evacuation Plan
When it is time to evacuate, go. Make a plan for where you and your family will stay at least 50 miles from your Texas home. If you can, pre-pack a bag before the threat of an Atlantic hurricane is severe. Load it with clothes, blankets, food, water, electronics, and important papers or photos.
Use These Tips
Don't Take Risks. Ultimately, people are more important than things. People hurt in hurricane weather evacuate late or stay in their homes altogether. Be wise and get out early. Prepare in order to mitigate panic and this kind of risky behavior.
We Help with Hurricane Recovery
We live and work in this community; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated cleaning, damage restoration, and construction business, SERVPRO of East Arlington is a proud and active member of this community and is ready to respond to your Orlando home emergency 24/7/365. Call us today at (682) 708-1001.
How to Reduce Pet Stress During a Storm: Evacuation Plan
4/8/2022 (Permalink)
Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress.
Plan For Your Pets
Inclement weather or fires can happen with or without notice. Creating an emergency plan can help prevent damage to your home and belongings and protect you and your loved ones - including pets! When putting a plan together, it’s important to plan for their needs as well.
Make an Evacuation Plan
Remember, if you must evacuate due to an emergency, the area is likely not suitable for your pets either. Your evacuation plan should consider where your pets will be taken, if not kept with you, and how best to transport them. Make a list ahead of time of pet friendly hotels or friends’ houses along your evacuation route and near your final destination. Know that some hotels and shelters do not accept animals.
You also might want to build an emergency travel kit for your animals. This will save time and worry when you must evacuate.
Items to include in your pet's emergency kit:
- A completed Emergency Pet Passport containing important information like your pets’ veterinarian contact info, medical needs, license/chip info, photos, etc.
- Leash, harness, and carrier with blanket to transport animals
- A few portions of a suitable non-perishable food, water bowl, bottled water, and can opener
- Cat litter and pan or bags for excrement
- Medications
- Toys
Don’t Have to Evacuate?
If evacuation is not necessary, there are still some things you can do to reduce your pet’s stress in an uncomfortable situation like a thunderstorm.
Pet Stress Symptoms
Pets may exhibit signs of stress and anxiety that can be alleviated by simple measures. Some of these symptoms include whimpering, hiding, pacing, or shivering. These symptoms may be caused by a variety of factors including pets’ greater sensitivity to sounds and air pressure.
As stress increases, symptoms may become more severe. Follow these simple measures to reduce your pet’s stress:
- Remain calm as an owner
- Create a comforting space for them in a smaller room like a closet or under a blanket
- Close blinds and curtains
- Keep them in their normal routine, if possible
Read more storm and pet related articles here.
Flood Warning vs Flood Watch
1/18/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of East Arlington wants you to be prepared in case of severe weather and know what to do if flooding occurs at your Fort Worth home or business.
A warning means “Take Action Now!” and if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
- Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
A watch means “Be Prepared” because flooding is possible within your area.
- Flood Watch: Be Prepared! A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will happen, but it is possible.
- Flood Advisory: Be Aware! A Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten your life and property.
Protection from Wind Damage
1/18/2022 (Permalink)
This season many areas in the United States have experienced heavy winds and storms. The intense, powerful winds can cause significant damage to your home. Wind damage can cause a range of destruction to your property, from broken windows and fallen tree branches to severe damage to the roof, garage, or car. It can happen from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.
Wind Damage from Different Types of Storms
Thunderstorms are the most common cause of wind and storm damage. However, winds from hurricanes or tornadoes are more robust and can cause severe damage. It can produce many types of adverse weather such as lightning, hail, tornadoes, straight-line winds, flooding, etc.
Thunderstorms are responsible for wind damage cases in the U.S. However, storm damage repair may be costly for hurricane or tornado wind damage. Billions of dollars are spent on wind damage repair and storm damage restoration each year. Understanding the nature of wind damage can help you limit the amount of damage to your property and save on restoration and repair costs.
It's important to know when and what type of storm is approaching in your area. You'll learn the potential level of damage to expect. These wind damage facts will help you better understand the likely wind damage and how to prevent it. Here are some steps you can take to minimize property damage when severe weather strikes.
Preventing Wind and Storm Damage
Flying Debris
Most wind damage starts with unsecured flying debris. If a storm is approaching your area, make sure any potential debris in your homes, such as patio furniture, toys, garbage cans, and other objects, are secured or brought inside. Secure your doors and windows to help minimize the potential storm damage to the home.
Roof Materials
Roofing material should latch to the deck. Loosely connected shingles will lift from the deck. Siding damage reduces at the construction phase. Fastened siding isn't as likely to lift off a structure in strong wind. Building codes will likely direct the minimum standards for connections. You, your architect, or your contractor may decide to exceed these minimums for a more robust storm-resistant structure.
Roof damage reduces during the construction phase when the roof deck, shingles, or membrane is applied over the decking. A well-designed roofing system will anchor the trusses and decking to the walls and foundation to keep the entire roof from lifting off the building in a strong wind.
Tree Maintenance
Tree maintenance to remove dead limbs or identify and remove weakened trees will reduce the likelihood of structural damage. Trees, at times, won't shift positions. If it does, it can shift and cause serious injury to the unwary. Roof openings and broken windows are the most common problem. Keep a roll of plastic sheeting that cuts to size and nails over the opening. Your insurance policy will likely cover the cost of an emergency close-up. Fallen trees may cause other severe safety issues, such as downed electrical wires. Contact your agent or claims center to report the damage and seek advice on how to proceed.
If your home or business sustains wind or storm damage, contact a restoration professional. SERVPRO of East Arlington can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.
Are you Prepared for a Tornado?
1/13/2022 (Permalink)
There is no such thing as guaranteed safety.
Freak accidents happen, and the most violent tornadoes can level and blow away almost any house and occupants. Extremely violent EF5 tornadoes are very rare.
Most tornadoes are much weaker and can be survived using these safety ideas.
Signs of a Tornado
- Strong, persistent rotation in the cloud base.
- Whirling dust or debris on the ground under a cloud base-tornadoes sometimes have no funnel!
- Hail or heavy rain followed by either dead calm or a fast, intense wind shift. Many tornadoes are wrapped in heavy precipitation and can't be seen.
- Day or night- loud continuous roar or rumble, which doesn't fade in a few seconds like thunder.
- Night- small bright, blue-green to white flashes at ground level near a thunderstorm (as opposed to silvery lightning up in the clouds). A very strong wind is snapping these mean power lines, maybe a tornado.
- Night- persistent lowering from the cloud base, illuminated or silhouetted by lightning, especially if it is on the ground or a blue-green-white power flash underneath.
Prevention and Practice Before the Storm
Have a tornado plan in place. Know where to take shelter. Practice a family tornado drill. Name a place to meet after a disaster—store protective coverings in or next to your shelter space for flying debris. When a tornado watch is issued, think about the drill and make sure safety supplies are handy. Turn on a local TV, radio, or NOAA weather radio and stay alert for warnings.
The Storm Hits: Where are You?
In a house with a basement
- Avoid windows, get in the basement and under some protection. Know where very heavy objects rest on the floor above and do not go under them. They may fall through a weakened floor and crush you.
In a house with no basement
- Avoid windows, go to the lowest floor, small center room under a stairwell, or a small interior hallway with no windows.
- Crouch as low as possible to the floor, face down, and cover your head with your hands.
In an office building
- Go directly to an enclosed, windowless area in the center of the building. Crouch down and cover your head. Interior stairwells are usually good places to take shelter. Stay off the elevator.
In a mobile home
- Get out! Even if your home is tied down. It is not as safe as an underground shelter or a permanent, sturdy building.
At school
- Follow the drill! Go to the interior hall or room in an orderly as you were told. Crouch low, head down, and protect the back of your head with your arms. Stay away from windows and large open rooms.
In the open outdoors
- If possible, seek shelter in a sturdy building. If not, lie flat and face-down on low ground, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Get as far away from trees and cars as possible.
In a mall or store
- Do not panic; watch for others. Move as quickly as possible to an interior bathroom, storage room, or other small enclosed areas. Crouch face-down and protect your head with your arms.
In a car or truck
- Park the car safely, stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, cover your head. Suppose you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway. Leave your car and lie in the area, covering your head with your hands, avoid seeking shelter under bridges.
After the storm passes, assess your property for damage and contact your insurance provider. When you are ready to begin repairs, call in the experts at SERVPRO of East Arlington. Our highly trained team specializes in storm damage restoration. We can do the clean-up, pack-out, water extraction, drying, reconstruction. We also work with your insurance to ensure a smoother claims process. We’re committed to helping our community. Call us anytime at (682) 708-1001.
Step-by-Step Lightning Safety
1/13/2022 (Permalink)
Lightning causes around 27 deaths in the U.S. annually, based on statistics gathered by the National Weather Service. Nationally, lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths. Lightning is the most frequent important weather threat to personal safety during the thunderstorm season. Unfortunately, Texas has observed several lightning fatalities and injuries. Why? The main reason is that people stay outside too long as thunderstorms approach or form nearby. During the early part of the thunderstorm season, for example, May and June, "dry" thunderstorms are quite common. With these types of thunderstorms, little or no precipitation reaches the ground and, as a result, people are less likely to seek shelter. If thunder is heard, then the storm is close enough for a lightning strike. DO NOT wait for the rain to start before seeking shelter, and do not leave shelter just because the rain has ended. Did you know?
- The air near a lightning strike is heated to 50,000 ° F, which is hotter than the surface of the sun!
- The average flash could light a 100-watt light bulb for more than 3 months.
- Lightning occurs with all thunderstorms.
It's not raining, is there still danger from being struck by lightning? YES! Lightning often strikes outside of the heavy rain area and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall. Will the rubber soles of my shoes or tires on my car protect me from being struck? NO! However, the steel frame of a hard-topped car provides increased protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside the car than outside. To roughly estimate the distance in miles between you and the lightning flash, count the seconds between the lightning and the thunder and divide by 5. When skies darken, or thunderstorms are forecast, look and listen for increasing wind, flashes of lightning, the sound of thunder, and static on your AM radio. While no place is safe from lightning, some places are much safer than others.
Where you can go…
- Get inside a house or large shelter
- Do not use a corded telephone during a thunderstorm. Only use cordless or wireless phones instead.
- Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles.
- Stay away from wire fences, clotheslines, or metal pipes and rails.
- If you are caught outside, away from shelter, you need to get to a place of safety as quickly as possible.
- Wait 30 minutes after you hear the last rumble of thunder before going outside.
What you can do...
- Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm
- Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This is your best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation
- REMEMBER if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning
- If possible, move to a sturdy building or hard top automobile
- If safe shelter is not available, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles
- If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land, and find shelter immediately
Our team at SERVPRO of East Arlington wants everyone in our community to stay safe during major storms. If you need emergency board-up to protect your home or storm damage restoration, give us a call at (682) 708-1001.
Storm Aftermath: What Next?
1/13/2022 (Permalink)
Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.
Safety First
If you and your family were away from home when the storm hit, do not return until it has been confirmed safe. Contact a storm damage expert like SERVPRO of East Arlington; we'll help you determine if your home is safe to return to.
Insurance
You will need to contact your homeowners' insurance adjuster as soon as possible. If your neighborhood has sustained widespread damage, find out if any special teams of insurance agents, relief workers, or contractors are coming to the area. Check your policy to determine what actions you need to take or talk to your agent to make sure you are following the proper procedures. Not following these actions correctly could result in a reduced claim. Inspect your property and make a list of all damages; take photographs of all noted damage if at all possible.
Recording And Documenting
Document your neighbor's damages, as well; this can prevent the insurance provider from downgrading your claim by saying the damage is from your neglect of maintenance or other unrelated issues by giving them away to compare. Keep a record of all the communication you have with your insurance provider and don't do any unnecessary repair work yourself. Hire a trusted storm damage restoration service provider such as SERVPRO of East Arlington to handle any repairs.
Be Scam Free
Always check the adjuster's identification. If you are evacuated, ask for money from your claim upfront. If they agree, you will be given a check for an amount deducted from your final settlement. Some providers will automatically offer a partial payment early on during the process. Review it carefully and decline it if you feel uncomfortable with any part of it. Never be afraid to ask questions and to expect an answer that makes sense or seems fair.
Dealing with a storm's aftermath is stressful, but reacting quickly and effectively will prevent problems down the road.
SERVPRO of East Arlington is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at (682) 708-1001.
Find Your Leaky Roof Source Quickly
1/5/2022 (Permalink)
After a significant storm, it's a good idea to inspect your damaged property as quickly as you can. Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and it takes a beating. Pay attention to dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens, which indicate hail damage. You may also see missing shingle tiles from the ground, but those don't always represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from a more minor roof feature.
At SERVPRO of East Arlington, we:
- Find the source of the leak
- Stop the leak &
- Clean the water damage.
Find the Leak
During storms in Texas, wind damage can let rain in through your roof. From the inside, look for water stains on your ceiling and walls that indicate the leak.
Common places to see leaky roof damage:
- Vents and fans
- Chimneys
- Window dormers
- Vent pipes
- Unsecured nails and nail holes
Dealing with Water Damage
- Check for discolorations and rotting wood, wet drywall, and insulation.
- If you haven't found mold, start drying any wet materials immediately. Complete drying is critical to preventing mold, and it may take longer than you realize.
- If you find mold, remain careful to not spread it during cleanup. Mold grows on wet, damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. A mold remediation professional creates a containment area while working on the water and mold damage. Specialists have monitoring equipment that they use to ensure materials are dry.
- For more assistance, call a local construction, restoration, and mold remediation crew like SERVPRO of East Arlington at (682) 708-1001.
Texas Experiences Tornadoes Too
1/15/2021 (Permalink)
Here’s a little background on tornadoes:
- A tornado is a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud with winds that can reach up to 300 mph
- Damage paths can be extensive, being over one mile wide and 50 miles long
- Tornadoes sometimes are brought in with tropical storms and hurricanes
- They can be predicted by tracking rotating thunderstorms
- Tornadoes often bring hail, damaging winds, flash flooding, and lightning to the area they affect
- When a warm front meets a cold front, tornadoes are formed
- Most move from southwest to northeast
- Tornadoes usually only last ten minutes or less
- They’re most likely to occur between 3 - 9 pm
- Tornado Alley is the part of the United States that sees the most twisters, and this area ranges from western Texas to North Dakota
- Southern states see a peak in tornado activity between March and May, while northern states see the most twisters between June and August
Because of the state’s geography and early spring season, Texas often sees strong storms blow through the area. This time in East Arlington, there have been various homes and duplexes damaged or destroyed by these tornadoes, with the estimate still being anticipated to increase.
Being prepared for a storm is important, so when the National Weather Authority releases information about an anticipated storm (or one that has been verified), it’s best to heed their warnings. Getting to safety is the most important in the event of a storm – you can leave the damage restoration to us.
What to Do Before, During, And After A Storm
1/15/2021 (Permalink)
As we escape the cold, winter months and transition into warmer weather, among that comes the increase of storms. As you know, thunderstorms thrive in rapidly rising warm air and humid areas like the South. The high humidity, in conjunction with warm temperatures, creates massive amounts of warm, moist air rising into the atmosphere, where it can easily form a thunderstorm. However, there are several things that you can do to make sure you and your property stay safe during storms.
What to do before the storm:
- Check that loose item such as outdoor furniture, umbrellas, and trampolines are safely secured.
- If it is safe to do so, check that gutters, downpipes, and drains are not blocked.
- Park your car undercover and away from falling debris.
What to do during the storm:
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- If outdoors, stay away from drains, gutters, creeks, and waterways, where the water can move up to 10 miles per hour.
- Be prepared for power outages, if possible carry flashlights or any portable light.
- Floodwater is dangerous and toxic – never drive, walk, ride, or swim in floodwater.
What to do after the storm:
- Check your home and property for damage.
- Keep clear of damaged buildings, power lines, and trees.
- Be aware of road hazards such as floodwater, debris, and damaged roads or bridges.
- Do not drive through affected areas unless it is necessary.
If you suspect damage after a storm, count on the experts at SERVPRO of East Arlington. For more information about our flood damage services or to get a quote, call us today!
When Disaster Strikes Your Property
1/15/2021 (Permalink)
Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your Clarksville home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of East Arlington can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. There are steps you can take to prepare for the potential damage to your home and property and minimize the after effects should your home be hit hard by a storm.
First, be sure you know what you are covered for under your homeowner's insurance. Most policies cover damage due to tornadoes, fire, ice, wind, severe temperatures, lightening and hailstorms. However, flooding due to a storm is not generally covered under most policies. Never assume your home and property are protected. If you have questions about your policy contact your agent.
Immediately following the storm inspect your home and watch out for hazards such as broken glass, exposed nails and downed power lines. Stay at least 10 feet from downed lines and contact your utility company immediately.
If your home does sustain damage after severe weather, contact your insurance company and have your home inspected by a qualified restoration specialist to determine what repairs are needed. If it is necessary to relocate during the restoration process your insurance company may be able to reimburse you some of the expenses to do so.
SERVPRO of Montgomery County can walk you through the steps necessary to restore your home and property after a storm. Our technicians are highly trained to clean and restore your home after disaster strikes. 24-Hour Emergency Service
Step-By-Step Lightning Preparation
1/15/2021 (Permalink)
Lightning causes around 31 deaths in the U.S. annually (based on statistics from 2006-2017). Nationally, lightning ranks second only to flash floods in weather-related deaths. Lightning is the most frequent important weather threat to personal safety during the thunderstorm season. Unfortunately, Texas has observed several lightening facilities and injuries. Why? The main reason is that people stay outside too long as thunderstorms approach or form nearby. During the early part of the thunderstorm season, for example May and June, "dry" thunderstorms are quite common. With these types of thunderstorms, little or no precipitation reaches the ground and, as a result, people are less likely to seek shelter. Click below for statistics on lightning events (resulting in property or crop damage, injuries or fatalities) by month and by hour. While Most lightning casualties occur at the beginning of an approaching storm, a significant number of lightning deaths occur after the thunderstorm has passed. If thunder is heard, then the storm is close enough for a lightning strike. DO NOT wait for the rain to start before seeking shelter, and do not leave shelter just because the rain has ended.Did you know?
- The air near a lightning strike is heated to 50,000 ° F, that is hotter than the surface of the sun!
- The average flash could light a 100-watt light bulb for more than 3 months.
- Lightning occurs with all thunderstorms.
It's not raining, is there still danger from being struck by lightning? YES! Lightning often strikes outside of the heavy rain area and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.Will the rubber soles of my shoes or tires on my car protect me from being struck? NO! However, the steel frame of a hard-topped car provides increased protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside the car than outside. To roughly estimate the distance in miles between you and the lightning flash, count the seconds between the lightning and the thunder and divide by 5. When skies darken, or thunderstorms are forecast, look and listen for increasing wind, flashes of lightning, sound of thunder, and static on your AM radio. While no place is safe from lightning, some places are much safer than others.
Where you can go…
- Get inside a house or large shelter
- Do not use a corded telephone during a thunderstorm. Only use cordless or wireless phones instead.
- Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles.
- Stay away from wire fences, clotheslines or metal pipes and rails.
- If you are caught outside, away from shelter, you need to get to a place of safety as quickly as possible.
- Wait 30 minutes after you hear the last rumble of thunder before going outside.
What you can do...
- Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm
- Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This is your best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation
- REMEMBER if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning
- If possible, move to a sturdy building or hard top automobile
- If safe shelter is not available, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles
- If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land and find shelter immediately
24/7 Emergency Service