Are There Strategies Homeowners Can Take to Minimize Storm Damage in Coconut Grove?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Having a well stocked First-Aid kit is crucial during a storm for your health. To restore your home, call SERVPRO quickly after the storm!

SERVPRO Addresses Precautions to Protect Your Family and Your Property from Storm Damage in Coconut Grove 

With tropical storm season in full swing, it is essential to prepare yourself for what potentially lies ahead. From making sure your home can withstand the weather to knowing the best evacuation routes, here is a quick look at how to prepare for tropical storm damage in Coconut Grove. After all, preparation is the best form of protection. 

• Be sure your home is well protected, which includes everything from ensuring there are no loose shingles on the roof to removing everything from your yard that can become a projectile. Also, secure your doors to prevent them from flying open, while also reinforcing your windows, doors, and garage doors.
• Determine the best possible evacuation routes. Before a tropical storm hits, local governments usually provide plenty of information about evacuation plans. If possible, test the evacuation route during a safe period to ensure there are no potential problems.
• Ensure you have all the necessary supplies. If you wait until the last minute, it can be almost impossible to get everything you need. Create a kit that includes plenty of water and non-perishable food, clothing, blankets, flashlight and batteries, a first-aid kit, and a whistle to signal for help. If you take prescription medication, be sure you include this in your kit.
• Verify that your home insurance policy is up to date. You must have your home insured against flooding and flood damage. (This is not part of standard homeowners or renters insurance policy.)
• Take time to back up your electronics, which is especially crucial if you use your computer to conduct business. Be sure to store all data in an off-site location that you can still access even if the storm destroys the actual device.
• Create an inventory of your possessions. After a storm hits, trying to remember everything you once had can be almost impossible. Beforehand, use a video camera (if possible) to document your valuables. Also, keep receipts. Should you have no desire to keep a bunch of papers, scan the receipts and store them in an off-site location. 

5 Top Tips for Staying Safe in A Coconut Grove Hurricane 

Surviving the awe-inspiring power of a Coconut Grove hurricane comes down to preparation. The good news is hurricanes don't just pop up out of nowhere. Typically, there is a 24-hour warning or more of impending severe weather in which to finish final preparations. The keyword here is "final." You can accomplish much of the preparation before a hurricane is bearing down on the area. 

1. . Prepare emergency supplies.

An emergency kit should include non-perishable food and bottled water for up to seven days. First Responders cannot access the area immediately. Be sure to include additional water for general use in that time frame, such as cooking. Include a First Aid kit, flashlights, an emergency radio, and plenty of spare batteries for these devices. Fill gas in vehicles in case evacuation orders come through. Be sure to take essential documents if the area needs to evacuate. 

2. Secure loose items and property.

With winds ranging from 75-200 mph, loose objects become deadly projectiles in hurricanes. Move loose items like lawn furniture and outdoor toys indoors. Plywood over windows can help prevent wind and projectile damage while the hurricane winds blow. Consider moving electronics and other valuable items to higher elevations in case the area floods. 

3. Turn off utilities at the shut-off valve.

Turn off electricity, water, and gas lines if possible. A damaged gas line can easily result in an explosion if introducing an ignition source. 

4. Pre-plan an evacuation route.

Do not wait until the last minute to decide how to exit the area. Hurricanes may not travel in a predictable line once they make landfall. It is not uncommon for them to curve once over dry land. Do not assume the availability of nearby hotels. No vacancies can exist even hundreds of miles away. Call ahead, attempt to make reservations. Ensure they accept pets if applicable. Be prepared to drive hours away. 

5. Monitor National Weather Service broadcasts.

The NWS is the best source of information about pending Coconut Grove storms and hurricanes. They can provide information on storm strength, recent developments, and evacuation orders. A community put under a hurricane watch may see activity within 36 hours of the announcement. The NWS can give regular updates on what actions need taking.

Why Choose SERVPRO of South Miami? 

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster 

When a storm hits your Coconut Grove home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response helps prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs. 

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We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists 

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of South Miami has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process emphasizes scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring, and documentation. 

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians 

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We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters 

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,650 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events. 

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SERVPRO of South Miami has the equipment and training to restore your home. We are available 24/7 to respond to your emergency. Call (305) 269-8900. 

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