1) Identify Potential Home and Property Hazards
Conditions will deteriorate Monday ahead of Hurricane Irma as the storm approaches our area with gusty winds and heavy rain. While the weather is still quiet, examine your home and property for potential trouble spots:
- Missing shingles and holes in your roofing
- Damaged gutters
- Sewage or sump pump issues
- Loose limbs
- Leaning or dead trees
If you can mitigate and remove hazards before the storm, take action now. Otherwise, make provisions for you family and pets to avoid trouble spots.
2) Look for Existing Plumbing Leaks and Issues
If your home or property are experiencing ongoing plumbing issues, it will be important to take not of them before the storm. Issues for which to look include:
- Leaking pipes under your home
- Poor drainage
- Leaking faucets, toilets, showers, and appliances
- Water heater issues
- Irrigation and lawn plumbing problems
3) Make Sure You Have Access to Fresh Water
If your home is supplied by a well with an electric pump, you and your family need to be prepared for extended power outages. Make sure you have plenty of fresh water for drinking and flushing toilets. Refrigerators and freezers should remain closed as much as possible to maintain cool temperatures. You may even have to supplement cooling with ice.
4) Update Your Emergency Preparedness Kit
Make sure you prepare and update your emergency preparedness kit:
- Plenty of batteries for flashlights
- Battery-powered AM/FM radio
- Candles and matches (always use with caution)
- Nonperishable food items
- Plenty of water
- Fuel for generator
- Books, board games, etc.
5) Prepare Your Exit Strategy
If your home and property is prone to flash flooding, make sure you are prepared to exit. Know when and where to evacuate, but remember, never attempt to drive through flood waters.
If you need plumbing repair and installation before or after the storm, contact Barlow Pluming. Our professional plumbers are experienced in serving the Asheville area.