Every year we face the possibility of a natural disaster, which forces us to analyze how prepared we really are. Very often it means we have to evacuate our home, leaving it to face the elements. While we cannot prevent a natural disaster from damaging our property, we may be able to reduce the amount of damage caused by having a good routine of home maintenance. Let’s look at a few things you can do to minimize the potential for damage during a natural disaster.
Something you should check regularly is the home’s drainage system. Clear away any debris or blockages that could interfere with the property’s ability to drain water away from the house. Check that the roof and chimneys are in good condition with no loose shingles or other elements that could become projectiles in strong winds. Keep trees well-trimmed to prevent them from becoming tangled in power lines or breaking off and causing damage. If the area you live in has the potential for wildfires, make sure there is sufficient defensible space surrounding the property.
It is also important to know your property well. What do we mean by this? If you have to leave in an emergency, you will prevent a lot of potential damage by turning off the utilities in your home. Becoming familiar with the locations of shut-off valves to electricity, water and gas will help you to be well prepared.
