Introduction
As summer approaches, homeowners in Broken Arrow face the inevitable threat of summer storms. To effectively prepare your home for summer storms in Broken Arrow, it's vital to take proactive measures that minimize damage and enhance your safety. The warm, humid climate in this region tends to stir up severe thunderstorms, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and even tornadoes. In this blog post, we’ll discuss practical steps you can take to safeguard your property from the unpredictable summer weather.
Assess Your Roof and Gutters
One of the first areas to check when preparing for summer storms is your roof. Ensure that it’s in good condition by:
- Inspecting for Damages: Look for missing shingles, leaks, or sagging areas. Pay attention to flashing around chimneys and vents, as these are vulnerable points.
- Clearing Your Gutters: Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow and damage the roof or siding. Clean them out to ensure proper drainage during storms.
- Checking Attic Ventilation: Good ventilation helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or rot.
Reinforce Windows and Doors
Wind can turn broken windows into dangerous projectiles and allow water to seep into your home. To reinforce windows and doors:
- Install Storm Shutters or Boarding: Whenever a storm is forecasted, consider boarding windows with plywood or installing storm shutters for extra protection.
- Check for Drafts: Weather stripping on doors and windows should be tight. If you feel drafts, it’s time to replace that weather stripping.
- Secure Garage Doors: Make sure your garage door is reinforced to withstand high winds, as it’s often the largest opening in your home.
Create a Safe Outdoor Environment
Your yard plays a significant role in protecting your home during a storm. Here’s how to create a safer outdoor space:
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Regularly trim any branches that hang over your home or are dead to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
- Secure Outdoor Furniture: Bring in or secure patio furniture, grills, and other items that could become dangerous debris in strong winds.
- Check Drainage: Ensure that your yard has good drainage to avoid flooding, which is common in Tulsa’s flat terrain. Consider installing drainage solutions like swales or French drains if necessary.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Being prepared for the unexpected is part of preparing your home for summer storms in Broken Arrow. Make sure you have an emergency kit ready that includes:
- Flashlights and Batteries
- First Aid Supplies
- Non-perishable Food and Water
- A Battery-Powered Weather Radio
- Important Documents
- Medications
💡 Tip: Review and refresh your emergency kit annually to ensure the supplies are up to date and nothing has expired.
Stay Informed and Plan Ahead
Keeping an eye on weather reports is key to storm preparedness. Here are some steps to stay informed and plan ahead:
- Download Weather Apps: Use local weather apps to get real-time updates on storms in Broken Arrow.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Look into local alert systems that notify you of severe weather warnings.
- Have a Family Plan: Discuss and map out a plan with your family, including where to meet if you need to evacuate and how to contact each other during a storm.
Know When to Call the Experts
Even with the best preparations, sometimes the damage can be too much to handle on your own. If you experience significant storm damage this summer, it’s time to contact a restoration expert. United Water Restoration Group of Tulsa specializes in helping residents in Broken Arrow recover from storm damage quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
In Broken Arrow, summer storms can be fierce, but with careful preparation, you can protect your home and loved ones. From assessing your roof to creating an emergency kit, each step is crucial. Don't wait for storms to hit; get proactive today. For professional help with storm damage restoration, give us a call at (918) 992-2900. Together, we can prepare your home and ensure peace of mind this storm season.
