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Preparing for Winter Storms | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties has your back with these helpful tips.
Winter is a mixed bag in the Cape. We might have one week that feels like spring followed by a week full of snow, sleet and freezing temperatures. The weather could also bring us lots of rain throughout the season. Either way, we are left with dangerous roads and potential risks to our homes.
No matter what winter brings us, the more we prepare, the safer we can keep our homes and our families. When you are ready, you can prevent a disaster and avoid the need for costly repairs all season long.
When a winter storm is predicted to be headed our way, the best thing you can do is prepare to be at home for a little while. You want to avoid travel as much as possible once things start getting wet—cold rains, snow or sleet can leave roads extremely dangerous.
Be prepared for the potential of a long-term power outage by checking on your emergency supplies. Make sure you have a weather radio that is in good working order, and put together a kit of other items that can help you stay safe and warm.
Your emergency kit should include basic first-aid supplies, batteries and flashlights. You will also want to make sure you have enough food and water for at least three days for each member of your household. The same goes for any prescription medications. Blankets, warm clothing layers and a safe way to stay warm are other items you will want to get ready ahead of a storm hitting.
Take a look at your contact list as well. You may need to consider another place to stay if things get really cold. Talk with family and friends, and check into community options for warming up. The Salvation Army in the Cape often opens for both daytime and overnight warming options.
Once a storm has passed and you can safely do so, assess your home for potential damage. Even if all is well for now, you may need to do a little maintenance to ensure it stays that way long after everything has melted away.
While heavy snows are not the most common form of winter weather in Scott County, when a winter storm rolls through, you should take a look at your roof. You want to make sure there isn’t snow or ice piled up anywhere and ensure your gutter system is clear. Cold rains can lead to ice that blocks your gutters or downspouts.
Walk the perimeter of your home as well, and make sure gutters are still firmly attached and connected. When ice or snow melts a disconnected gutter can lead to roof leaks or water damage to windows and siding. Make sure exterior vents are clear from any debris as well. A blocked vent can cause carbon monoxide buildup inside your home, which can become a deadly situation.
Once you have been able to assess your home, call our team to fix any damage you incurred. We are available 24⁄7, so even if you experienced a major disaster during the storm we can respond quickly in order to start safely securing your home.
We will handle any water, wind or other damage your home was left with quickly so that you can get back to enjoying (or hiding from) everything winter has to offer.
Our team is always ready for anything! Contact us at SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties for a quick restoration after suffering damage from a winter storm.