The damage done by a storm can affect you physically, emotionally, and financially. It’s important that one takes the right steps to deal with such an event to make the most out of it. Considering the fact that destructive storms have become more common in today’s age and time, it’s natural to have concerns about your family’s safety, securing your property, and getting back together.
While you can’t limit the storms that hit your home, you can certainly take the right steps after a storm, to minimize the damage and restore things back to normal as soon as possible. Here are a few things you can do after a storm has struck your area.
1. Ensure everyone’s Safety
If your area has become a victim of a storm, make sure to check for everyone’s safety as soon as it is over. Ensure all the family members are safe and sound. In addition, stay away from downed power lines, unstable structures or gas leaks, if there are any.
Moreover, be aware of your home’s surroundings. A storm can lead to broken trees in your lawn or backyard. You can hire professionals such as emergency tree removal minnetonka mn to get rid of them right away and keep everyone safe.
2. Assess the Damage
After ensuring everyone’s safety, it’s important to assess the overall damage the storm has cost. Inspect for the damage such as structural damage, roof leaks, window cracks, broken walls, etc. in addition, take several pictures of the damaged and affected areas to have proof with you.
This evidence in the form of pictures and videos will help you file the insurance claim for loss you have faced. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process.
3. Pay attention to Temporary Repairs
A storm can lead to structural damages to your property that can become dangerous if not addressed. It’s important to inspect the damage and go for temporary repair to make your home livable again. For instance, if there’s broken windows, cover it. Similarly, if there is roof leak, you can tarp it to avoid dripping water or pest infestation.
Moreover, remove the broken branches or trees in your lawn by hiring professionals such as tree removal pittsburgh, pa to prevent further damage.
4. Clean-up the Surroundings
A storm can not only affect your home but also your surroundings. It can ruin your curb appeal. It’s important to clean-up the debris and water-damaged items as they can cause mold growth in the long run.
Remove the shattered glass from the windows to prevent anyone from getting injured. Similarly, remove the fallen and broken trees that can cause further damage.
5. Don’t hesitate to ask for Help
Encountering a storm can affect you drastically. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your friends and relatives to deal with loss. Know that they love you and will be there for you in this tough time.
Also, if there’s severe structural damage or an injury , then ask authorities for immediate help. For downed power lines or gas leaks you can ask respective utility companies.
