Having an Emergency Storm Plan in Place

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure you and everyone in your building has a safety plan to follow when disaster strikes.

Schools, office buildings, hotels, and hospitals all have plans posted (even practiced) in case of an emergency. So, why not have a disaster recovery plan for you in your own home or business? This may or may not be something that you have considered before, and perhaps it has just been put on the backburner with other tasks. However, this is a task that you may not want to put off; after all, disaster can strike at any time. 

By ensuring that you have a solid plan that everyone is aware of, not only will clean-up be easier, but it will help to ensure the safety and well-being of loved ones. So, where exactly should you start and what are the benefits?

1.     Reduced fear, anxiety, and panic if disaster should strike – Have a good understanding of what disasters you may face. If you live in an area that is prone to tornadoes, you’ll want to make sure there is a safe shelter for everyone. Additionally, you will want to make sure there are provisions in your shelter such as water, blankets, dry food, lights, batteries, etc.
2.     Avoid confusion and extra stress - Make sure that everyone is aware of the disaster plan and there are clear responsibilities. No matter the age, everyone who lives or works under your plan, everyone should is well versed in what to do if there is a flood, fire, or another natural disaster. Discussing and practicing this plan can help to ensure that everyone is in the loop. 
3.     Less stress with clean-up and repairs - Check with your insurance! Make sure that all of the bases are covered with your insurance, especially that you are covered from floods and other natural disasters. 
4.     No need to worry about replacing items that are irreplaceable. Make sure to keep important documents and keepsakes in a fireproof and waterproof safe. Not only will this help to make the claims and clean up an easier transition, but you can also protect important pictures and documents. 
5.     Less counting later on! Keep an inventory of all valuables. If you should have to file a claim, it will be easier to pull the record out as opposed to trying to scan your stressed brain. 

If you decide that it is time to make and follow a disaster plan, make sure that you do your research so that you are well prepared. It is easy to get caught up in life and forget that disasters do happen, but if it should happen, you’ll be glad that you were ready. If you are in the middle of making your plan and are not sure of what contacts to put in your phone, add SERVPRO to the list, we are faster to any disaster!