Hurricanes, tropical storms and depressions are some of mother nature’s most devastating and

destructive threats. In addition to the stress and disruption of flooding in your home, the aftermath can be extremely damaging to your property. To protect your loved ones and your home, take action now to prepare for a flood. Here are some things you can do immediately to ready your home for an impending storm.

Things You Can Do Now at Home to Prepare for a Flood

• Strong storm winds can tear apart trees and cause branches to tear into your property. Trim down trees, shrubs and bushes in your lawn to lessen the chances of debris damaging your home.
• Protect windows and doors with shutters or put up plywood panels. Permanent professionally-fitted shutters offer the best protection, but in intense storm conditions, it is important to try and fully cover each window and door as securely as possible.
• Make sure your rain gutters are securely fit and cleared of all debris to prevent water damage.
• Bring outdoor patio furniture indoors, including potted plants and anything else that can be picked up by the wind.
• Right before the storm, turn your air conditioning and refrigerator down to cooler temperatures in case the power goes off.
• Purchase a portable generator in case of a power outage.
• Fuel up on gas while stations still have a surplus and continue topping off your tank as the storm approaches.
• Stock up on non-perishable food and bottled water. Try to portion and take only what you will need instead of buying excessive supplies so your neighbors are able to stock up as well.

Plan Ahead Before Disaster Strikes

• Develop an emergency plan for your family and loved ones. If your home is in an evacuation zone, make sure everyone knows the evacuation and alternative routes. Get out as soon as local officials say to do so.
• Remember to turn off gas, electricity and water, and unplug small appliances and electronics in case you need to evacuate.
• Check your home and auto insurance to make sure all policies are valid and you are covered for a flood. Store these and other important documents, such as social security cards and passports, in watertight containers.
• Make arrangements for your pets and livestock by contacting local humane societies and animal shelters, because they may not be allowed into an emergency shelter.
• Have an emergency storm kit on hand at all times if you live in an at risk area. Batteries, portable radios, first aid supplies, manual can openers, cash and any essential medications should be included in a preparedness kit. It will give you piece of mind to know you have disaster supplies on hand in case of an emergency.

What to do When Water Floods Your Home

• Hang draperies above flood lines and pin up furniture skirts to avoid contact with wet floors.-
• Do not turn on fans, heat, or air conditioning as this may spread contamination if the water has sewage particles.
• Remove small furniture from carpeted areas and relocate valuable items.
• Start planning for a flood restoration crew to move furniture into dry areas of your home.

If the Water Does Get In, Stanley Steemer Can Get It Out

To minimize the damage a flood can leave on your home, call Stanley Steemer of South Florida for emergency water restoration services. Our trained technicians arrive on scene with powerful, advanced equipment that will extract the water from your home. Stanley Steemer’s professional-grade drying and dehumidifying equipment will extract hidden pockets of water from furniture and carpeting, to minimize the possibility of secondary damage by potential microbial growth. For decades, Stanley Steemer has been the name to trust when it comes to restoring your home, as each of our water restoration specialists have the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Prepare for a flood by saving Stanley Steemer of South Florida’s phone number, (888) 982-3553, and call as soon as damaging water enters your home.