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How to Handle Strong Winter Storms | SERVPRO of Houston County
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Houston County has your back with these helpful tips.
Winter in Georgia can be a daily adventure. For most of the season we can anticipate mild temperatures, gray skies and rain. While snow is pretty rare, it can’t be ruled out—and neither can ice.
Whatever each day brings, the more we are prepared for the season we are, the safer we can stay. If we get our home and family ready for anything, we can avoid disasters.
When a winter storm is headed our way, you need to prepare ahead of time so that you stay indoors as the worst of it blows through. Intense rain and freezing temperatures can make incredibly dangerous driving situations that you want to avoid.
Check on what emergency supplies you have around your home, and if you don’t already have one, invest in a weather radio. Winter weather can knock out power quickly and for the long-term. Gathering up supplies is crucial for staying safe and warm.
Put together an emergency kit that includes batteries, flashlights and basic first-aid supplies. If you have a fireplace, make sure you have plenty of wood or that your pilot light is on and ready. Gather up your blankets and sleeping bags—this might be the perfect time for a family slumber party.
Update your contact list as well, and consider where you might stay if things get really cold. Talk with your family and friends about the best way to keep everyone safe. Warming centers often open at the Salvation Army if you need a place to go during the day.
Once things have settled down outside, take some time to look over your house and check for damage. Even if you don’t see anything right away, there are a few things you will want to do to ensure your home stays safe.
Inspect your roof for potential wind damage or debris buildup. If the temps stay low enough, ice could form at the corners of your roof and leave your gutters blocked. Make sure water can run cleanly through and remove any leaves or limbs.
Walk around your yard and the perimeter of your home as well. Clean up any debris that has blown around, paying special attention to the exits of your gutter downspouts to ensure they are clear. Look over your siding and the rest of your gutter system as well to make sure everything is still connected and nothing is out of place. Remove debris from around your HVAC units and external vents on your home to prevent life risking carbon monoxide buildup inside.
If you do find damage after or even experience damage in the midst of a winter storm, call us right away. We are available around the clock and will start getting your information together in order to send a team to your house. Once they arrive, they can fully assess the situation and let you know exactly what restoration will entail.
We make it our goal to get your home back to exactly as it was before the storm quickly and efficiently. Our professionals will make your restoration process as simple as possible so that you can get outside and enjoy whatever the winter season brings.
Our team is always ready for anything! Contact us at SERVPRO® of Houston County for a quick restoration after suffering damage from a winter storm.