Be prepared. Storm Damage Preparedness for the Vulnerable

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

Be prepared incase of a storm to ensure the safety of the vulnerable.

Storms can be particularly challenging for seniors and vulnerable populations, who may have limited mobility, health conditions, or a lack of access to resources. It is crucial for these individuals to have a plan in place to protect themselves and minimize the impact of storm damage. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips for storm damage preparedness for seniors and vulnerable populations.

Create an Emergency Kit

Every senior and vulnerable person should have an emergency kit ready in case of a storm. This kit should include essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, medication, a battery-powered radio, and important documents (such as medical records and insurance documents). Make sure to store the kit in an easily accessible location.

Seniors and vulnerable populations should have a communications plan in place with family, friends, or neighbors who can check on them during a storm. Make sure to exchange contact information, establish a method of communication, and let them know if you have any specific needs or concerns.

Create a Support Network

Reach out to local senior centers, community organizations, or support groups to establish a network of support. They can help connect you with resources, provide assistance in preparing for a storm, and offer support during and after the storm.

Take steps to secure your home before a storm hits. Trim trees and shrubs around your property to minimize the risk of falling branches. Reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood to protect against high winds and flying debris. Ensure that all outdoor furniture and decor are properly secured or brought indoors to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

Stay Informed

Stay informed about storm warnings, evacuation orders, and local emergency resources. Follow local news stations, radio, or National Weather Service updates for the latest information. Consider registering for emergency alerts through your local government or emergency management agency.

If an evacuation order is issued, have a plan in place for transportation and shelter. Identify evacuation routes and make arrangements with family, friends, or local authorities for assistance. If needed, contact your local emergency management agency to inquire about special needs shelters or transportation options for seniors and vulnerable populations.

Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages are common during severe storms. Make sure to have alternative lighting options, such as battery-powered flashlights or lanterns. If you rely on medical equipment that requires electricity, have a backup power source, such as a generator or a battery backup, to ensure uninterrupted use.

During a storm or power outage, it is essential to stay hydrated and cool, especially for seniors who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Have enough bottled water stored in your emergency kit, along with hand-held fans, battery-powered fans, or portable air conditioners, if possible.

Storm damage preparedness is critical for seniors and vulnerable populations to ensure their safety and well-being during severe weather events. By creating an emergency kit, having a communications plan, and establishing a support network, seniors and vulnerable individuals can better navigate the challenges of storms. Remember, being prepared and having a plan in place can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and security of those most at risk during severe weather events.

Preventing Mold After Flooding: Essential Tips for Homeowners

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

By following these tips, you can help prevent a mold outbreak after your home floods.

When it comes to water damage in your home, one of the biggest threats is mold. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of a flood, and if not properly addressed, it can quickly spread throughout your home and cause health problems for you and your family. In this blog post, we'll provide you with some tips on how to prevent a mold outbreak after your home floods.

Act Fast

The key to preventing a mold outbreak after a flood is to act fast. The longer you wait, the more time mold has to grow and spread. As soon as it is safe to do so, start removing any standing water from your home. If the water is too deep, you may need to call in a professional restoration company to help.

Remove Wet Materials

Mold thrives in moist environments, so it's important to remove any wet materials from your home as soon as possible. This includes carpet, furniture, and any other items that have been damaged by the flood. If you are unable to remove these items yourself, consider hiring a professional restoration company to help.

Dry Out Your Home

After removing all of the wet materials from your home, it's important to dry out your home as much as possible. Open windows and doors to increase ventilation, and use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out any remaining moisture.

Clean and Disinfect

Once your home is dry, it's important to thoroughly clean and disinfect all affected areas. This includes walls, floors, and any other surfaces that have come into contact with flood water. Use a mixture of bleach and water to disinfect these areas, and be sure to wear gloves and other protective gear while cleaning.

Monitor for Mold

Even after taking all of these steps, it's important to continue monitoring your home for mold. Keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth, such as musty odors or discoloration on walls and ceilings. If you do notice mold growth, it's important to address it immediately to prevent it from spreading.

By following these tips, you can help prevent a mold outbreak after your home floods. However, if you do notice mold growth or are unable to address the flood damage on your own, be sure to call in a professional restoration company to help.

5 Ways to Use Landscaping To Protect Your Home

8/3/2022 (Permalink)

A rain garden can be planted on a slope and helps to absorb excess water.

Landscaping Strategies

During a big storm in Schertz, TX, you take precautions to protect your home. You board up windows and place sandbags to divert water flow. Did you know that you can use your landscaping to protect your yard from outside flooding? Here are five ways to do it.

1. Extend Rain Spouts
The downspouts on your home are supposed to help move water away from your foundation, but only when they're correctly installed. Many rain spouts are too short, so rainwater pools next to the foundation. Extend rain spouts further into the yard to prevent flooding.

2. Choose Heavy Mulch
You can choose many types of mulch based on appearance or price. You can use mulch to protect your home during a rain storm. Heavy mulch such as shredded bark won't float away but will help the soil absorb excess water and keep it away from your home.

3. Plant a Rain Garden
A rain garden can be planted on a slope and helps to absorb excess water. You can divert rainspouts into a rain garden which protects your house and keeps your home beautiful.

4. Research Native Plants
The most effective way to plant a rain garden is to use native plants. Native plants thrive in your yard, develop deep roots, and help prevent soil erosion. If outside flooding has become a problem at your home, a storm restoration company can make helpful suggestions to prevent future flooding.

5. Level Your Yard for Rain Drainage
A more intense intervention is to correct the slope of your yard. If the ground slopes even slightly toward your foundation, you are more likely to have inside flooding during a storm. You can work with a professional landscaper to correct the slope and help water flow away from your home.
Outside flooding during a storm can cause inside damage. Use landscaping strategies to protect your yard and home from water damage.

6 Landscaping Ideas to Prevent Flooding

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Plant new grass.

Reduce the Chances Of Water Damage In Your Home

People who live in New Braunfels, TX, know that outside flooding is always a possibility. While the effects of a heavy rainstorm may not be avoidable, rethinking your landscaping may minimize the potential and need for a professional water and storm damage restoration company. Below are six ideas to enhance the property and reduce the chances of water damage.

1. Apply Heavy Mulch
While there are many colors and types of mulch that add curb appeal, using a heavier mulch not only stays put better but also slows water that is quickly flowing. When laying it, keep it approximately six inches away from the siding.

2. Level the Slope
Since water takes the easiest path down, ensure your home is properly graded. After a rain, any areas that show signs of pulling will likely need to be raised with dirt. Afterward, rocks or mulch can be applied to provide a pleasing aesthetic.

3. Add Rain Drainage Swales
Outside flooding entering the home happens due to how water flows. A swale, which is basically a ditch, can be dug out to redirect the flow.

4. Build a Rain Garden
Plants love water, so use them to help absorb excess runoff with a rain garden. These should be created in a low-lying area where water naturally flows to. Be sure to use native plants that are known for high water needs to maximize the benefits.

5. Install a Rain Barrel
A rain barrel is a simple addition that collects water and helps redirect it from the home. Most include a spigot, which also lets you conserve water and use rainwater for other plants. These barrels are available in a range of sizes, colors and designs.

6. Plant New Grass
Plush grass not only looks good but also better absorbs water. If you have thin areas, look into denser grasses that easily grow.
Although outside flooding entering the home happens, reconsidering your landscaping is one way to minimize the issues.

How Homeowners Can Prevent Winter Storm Damage

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Storms can cause shingles to be blown away allowing rain to go into your attic space.

How Can Homeowners Avoid Winter Storm Damage?

Preventative maintenance can limit the damage that winter weather can inflict on a home in Selma, TX. Here are three measures homeowners can take to prepare for any conditions this season may bring, from below-freezing temperatures to a severe winter storm.

1. Maintain the Roof

A blizzard will test the condition of any roof. Three inches of dry snow can add up to 10 pounds per square foot to a roof, while wet snow can add up to 60 pounds per square foot. It is important to ensure that a roof is in good condition prior to the start of winter. Rather than risking a cave-in or collapse, it may be advisable to safely rake or sweep snow off of a roof to lighten the load.

Uneven attic and roof temperatures can also cause ice damming. Snow that melts and refreezes around the eaves can cause roof damage that leads to leaks. Roofers can recommend solutions for keeping an attic cool, insulated and ventilated. Homeowners should also make sure that gutters and downspouts are clear.

2. Protect Pipes

Pipes that run near exterior walls may require insulation. It is also important to maintain a consistent interior temperature no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures dip below freezing, a homeowner should trickle faucets and leave cabinets that contain plumbing open.

3. Seal Doors and Windows

Severe damage may occur if an exterior door blows open during a winter storm. Properly-sealed doors and windows are also much more efficient. Weather stripping can reduce the amount of warm air that seeps out of a home and prevent condensation.

Homeowners should take measures to maintain the condition of a residence all year round to avoid the need for extensive repairs during the fall. If a blizzard or winter storm damages a residence in  Selma, TX, storm restoration specialists can quickly provide mitigation services.