Winter Storm Preparedness (and What To Do If There’s Storm Damage)
Winter storms are inevitable for our neighbors in the north. Here’s how to keep yourself AND your identity safe this winter season.
Do you know how to prepare for a winter storm? While it still may seem early in the season to talk about the white stuff, it’s never to early to think about being prepared. Even if you don’t live where it snows, you may travel somewhere that does, and winter storms are a seasonal given for our northern neighbors. One of the biggest risks from big winter storms is their ability to knock out electricity, heat, and communication services. With a bad storm, this can sometimes last for days. Here’s how to get yourself ready before the winter weather hits.
Your first priority before a winter storm hits is to make sure you have at least a 3 day supply of water (3 gallons per person) and easy to prepare food. In addition to food and water, purchase a NOAA Weather Radio so you can stay aware of the situation if your other communication sources are cut off. Make sure it is battery operated and that you have extra batteries. Get ahead of the crowds and invest in a good shovel now if you do not have one. You may need to dig yourself out before roads are fully cleared. Be sure to purchase a supply of flashlights and candles. Of course, don’t ignore your chimney. Make sure you clean and inspect your chimney if you have one, and provide an ample supply of wood. Don’t skimp on the blankets, either. If you lose power and heat, you’ll need quite a bit to stay warm.
Clear rain gutters and repair roof leaks, otherwise there can be water damage to your home in addition to everything else that comes with winter storms.
REMEMBER
Listen to local media for updates on cleanup efforts. Often times, post-storm cleanup crews will proceed from street to street, with emergency access road ways to be cleared first.
If your home has water damage, hiring a professional service can help for a thorough cleanup, because they will know how to deal with this type of damage that is otherwise not visible.
If your roof leaks and melted snow comes into your home, seek a safe route out. Recover only what you can, but be careful of live wires and any other electrical work. Safety is paramount!
If sensitive paperwork and documentation has been damaged by water, do not toss it out on the curb for regular trash pick up. Despite water damage, identifying information can still be readable and put you at risk for identity theft. Legal Shred has special equipment to help you destroy waterlogged documents safely and securely as you recover from storm clean up. Be sure to gather these documents and keep them in a safe and secure location until it is time to shred.
Many documents can be replicated and replaced by issuing governments and facilities. Your health and safety matter most.
Here at Legal Shred, we care about our communities and their health and safety. Let us help ease the burden by keeping your identity safe. Call Legal Shred today for guidance and assistance after storm clean up.
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