Prairie summers are known around the world for their severe storms. They pop up with little warning, and bring lightening, hail, severe rain and winds. These storms can cause just as much property damage as a winter blizzard, so it’s important to prepare your property for anything Mother Nature can throw at it.
Check your insurance policy
You may think you’re covered for specific types of loss, only to be met with a surprise after a storm. Read your policy fully and speak to an insurance professional if you need additional coverage for storm related damage.
Direct water away from your home
Check your gutters, eavestroughs and downspouts regularly. Ensure water is running freely with the flow pointed away, and downhill, from your home, so water doesn’t pool around your property and damage your foundation. Make sure to clear any debris, so water doesn’t backup under your roof and behind your siding.
Sump pump
In cases of severe rainfall and potential floods, investing in a sump pump well protect your home. Sump pumps are used to remove standing water, preventing it from flooding your basement. If you already have a sump pump, check it to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Check your roof
Now is the best time to inspect your roof for any damaged, missing or broken shingles. A weakened roof can impact the envelope of your home, exposing it to the potential of structural and water damage.
Landscaping and outdoor decorations
Trim any trees or bushes around your property to prevent branches breaking a window, or other parts of your property, during high winds. If you have any outdoor furniture, umbrellas or swing sets, secure them with heavy weights to keep them grounded.
Emergency Preparedness Kit
Prepare a storm section in your pantry, or prep a storage bin with enough supplies to last 72 hours in the event of a major storm. Great items to include are a manual can opener, canned food, bottled water, batteries, candles, a flashlight, crank operated radio, and a solar powered USB charger to power up your phone during extended power outages. Be sure to include some comfort and entertainment items as well, such as blankets, board games, a deck of cards and some books.
No matter what storm season may bring, you can count on the team at DKI – Saskatoon Disaster Services to be there when you need us most. With over 30 years of experience dealing with prairie storms in Alberta and Saskatchewan, you can trust us to restore your property back to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently.
