
Flooding and Storm Surge
Know if you are in an area that can potentially flood and be prepared. Don’t go into flood or storm surge waters. These are a drowning risk and can sweep you away. There are also invisible dangers such as hidden obstacles and health hazards from contamination in the water.
Stay Inside
Stay put indoors unless it is absolutely necessary. If you must travel, have your evacuation route planned out and don’t drive through flood waters.
Keep Updated
Use media such as your local weather station or social media to track storm and hurricane updates. This will keep you informed of the storm’s path and intensity, as well as when it may be safe to emerge and alert you on important evacuation information.
Know How to Turn Off Your Utilities
Gas and electrical fires are a major cause of property damage during storms. Make sure to turn off your utilities if you evacuate your home.
Be Ready
In the event of an evacuation, have a plan in place such that your family and pets are ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Make sure you have any food, baby formula, diapers, and pet carriers set up or packed in advance.
Additional Resources
- Find out if you are in a flood zone: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home
- Find a local shelter from the storm: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html
- Other hurricane safety tips: https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
The last thing you want is for a storm to leave permanent damage on your home. Flooding, storm surge, and intensive hurricane rain and wind can weaken the structural integrity of your home, and standing water left behind by a flood creates the ideal environment for mold, mildew, and wood rotting fungus to grow. Our home solutions can help after a storm and can prevent damage in the first place. Get a free inspection and estimate from Tar Heel Basement Systems so that you know your home is safe. Our mission is to protect, repair, and improve our customer’s greatest asset – their home.