4 Ways to Update Your Home for Emergency Preparedness
Each and every home in the world should be prepared for emergencies and other unexpected (and potentially damaging) situations. It’s not easy to think about worst-case scenarios and what will be done in the instance that extenuating circumstances threaten the integrity and condition of a home, but doing so is a must if one wishes to minimize damage.
Stated in short, emergency preparedness is a valuable—if uncomfortable—precaution that can save homes and lives.
Let’s take a look at four ways that homeowners can update their dwellings for emergency preparedness.
Cut down Nearby Trees
Tornadoes, hurricanes, and even heavy storms, which can impact almost every home in the world, can be especially devastating if a home is surrounded by trees.
That’s not to say that all the trees in a yard should be cut down—they shouldn’t—but if a tree is tall enough to fall and hit one’s home, it should be chopped—especially if it looks unhealthy.
This worse-case scenario is relatively unlikely, but again, inclement weather has been known to cause trees to fall. Moreover, large trees bring with them large branches, which can easily fall and cause damage. And lastly, trees can fall at any time—not just when the weather is acting up—and an emergency can be created when one of these trees strikes a home.
Arrange for Occasional Service-Professional Check-Ins
Failing to diagnose and respond to potential issues pertaining to a home’s internal workings—plumbing, electric, construction, etc.—will only create more difficulties in emergency situations. From natural disasters to fires and everything in between, homes—and their residents—will have a harder time surviving and thriving if “the basics” aren’t in order.
Briefly, voltage discrepancies can turn deadly when coupled with emergency situations; power surges have been known to cause fires inside homes during storms. But by having electricians and other service professionals check-in once every year or so, a homeowner can assure that his or her dwelling won’t encounter even bigger problems than it otherwise would have in an emergency.
Stock Emergency Supplies for the Home
It goes without saying that emergency supplies are worth having on-hand for humans; rations, water, first aid kits, and more should be stocked and replenished at least once per year. However, emergency supplies for the home should also be invested in and replenished as is necessary.
Fire extinguishers, basic tools (hammer, nails, etc.), a generator, fuel, power banks, and more can make all the difference for a home that’s facing an emergency. The inability to put out a fire, create a barrier and/or connect precarious components of the home, power a home’s main appliances, and call for help—all these things can lead to a home’s suffering more damage than necessary.
Moreover, the contact information for professionals who can help homes during (and after) emergencies—plumbers, drywall specialists, flood damage restoration professionals, and many others—should be kept on-hand. The quicker these experts get to work, the better things will bode for a home.
Invest in a Security System
Home invasions can be very, very destructive to houses. Homeowners can stay safe from criminals—and weather-related emergencies—by purchasing a security system, which will automatically contact police, fire, and medical professionals if and when an emergency is detected.
These tips are sure to help prepare homes for emergencies. Thanks for reading, and here’s to staying safe during adverse situations!