5 Tips on Preventing Storm Damage

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Summer thunderstorms can wreak havoc on Maryland.  Almost every other day we hear about how weather is affecting people around the country. The good news is you can prepare for severe weather and help prevent storm damage.

Here are some quick tips from SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park.

• Remove dead branches from trees and remove dead trees. Dead trees and tree branches can fall on cars, damage your roof, or cause major destruction. Be sure to remove all dead wood.

• Dirty or cluttered gutters are a common cause of drainage problem. However, make sure you fix drainage problems with patios and landscaping too. Do you see any puddles in your yard? This can be a sign of drainage problems. To avoid water damage, get those drainage problems addressed before a storm.

• When was the last time you had your roof inspected? Ideally, your roof should be inspected and maintained on a yearly basis.

• Sump Pump. Ensure you have a sump pump battery backup in place. These batteries can save you from having a real mess on your hands. A batterybackup system is needed most often when heavy rains have resulted in a power outage, or the primary sump pump is overwhelmed by heavy water volumes during a rain event. 

• Shut Off. Know where your shut off valves are for your utilities. If you have a flood, for your safety, it is important to know where the shut off valves are locating both inside/outside your home.

If you have concerns with a commercial property having an emergency plan, please let us know. SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can develop an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your building and provide your facilities staff with a telephone application that will keep them prepared for severe weather. Call us for more information (410) 647-8181.