Even though we’re a long way removed from the devastation on the East Coast as a result of Superstorm Sandy, those of you who have lived in Minnesota for awhile know that we are no strangers to severe weather. And as the extreme flooding in the Duluth area showed this spring, natural disaster can even strike us here in the heartland.
While we can’t always predict when and where dangerous storms may hit, and we can’t be sure what damage they might cause, there are steps that homeowners can take to protect themselves and their property to lessen the impact of natural disasters we experience such as tornadoes, flooding, blizzards, etc. Each home and its residents are unique, but the main thing all families can do is to be prepared and to have a plan as to how to handle things in case of an emergency. Don’t count on phone lines, powers, cell phones, Internet service, etc. As those who got hit by Sandy found out, those things can vanish in an instant. So what can you do?
Gather home and personal information and then store it safely. Go through the rooms of your house and make a detailed inventory, and take pictures or videos. Put together a packet with these lists and pictures and include date of purchase and receipts on high-ticket items such as TVs and furniture. Include model and serial numbers. Keep a copy of this list on your computer, and email one to yourself as a backup. You’ll need this for insurance claims. You can keep one copy in your house for reference, and put the other in a secure, waterproof/fireproof container. Some people choose to use a safe deposit box, but there are waterproof and fireproof home safes available. This is also a good place to put any irreplaceable documents such as passports, deeds, marriage certificates, as well as family photos. Schedule home check-ups. It’s a good idea to schedule a visit with your insurance agent each year to review your current policy. Inquire as to the most common disasters in the area, and whether you have adequate coverage to handle those contingencies. Keep an eye (and an ear) on the weather. When severe weather threatens, tune in to local weather forecasts and be on the alert for changing conditions. Do you know what your local disaster siren sounds like? You can also check in with the NOAA Weather website or follow it on Facebook for updates and alerts. Lastly, there are weather radios available that will give alerts when a storm is headed your way. Many of these run on batteries. Have an escape plan. Be clear on how you can get out of every area of your house, and where household members should meet once they have escaped. You’ll need two reunion spots – one if the disaster is confined to your home or the area around it, and one if the disaster is more widespread. Make sure everyone is clear on where to meet. It’s a good idea to have an emergency contact that will be your point person if you get separated.
