When a Disaster Strikes Your Home | SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
No one ever wants to think about a disaster striking their home, but it is something we should all be prepared for. Severe weather can blow into your town faster than you ever imagined, leaving behind a trail of damages.
Our unique location may be beautiful, but being so close to the cold Rocky Mountains and the warm Gulf of Mexico can also set us up for some pretty severe weather. Thunderstorms and tornadoes are common in our area, which is one of the reasons that Oklahoma City has hundreds of tornado sirens all around.
With the threat of such strong storms always a possibility, we know the importance of being prepared and responding quickly. But knowing what to do after a storm is just as crucial for ensuring a fast and easy recovery.
After a severe storm has moved out of the area and the professionals have given an all-clear, continue to stay alert for lingering thunder and lightning and be prepared for the potential of additional rounds of severe storms. Keep your weather radio on, and make sure you can quickly get back to your safe space if needed.
Once the main threat has passed, checking on your loved ones should be top priority. Make sure you have covered your communication plan with your whole family in case cell services are out. Text messaging can sometimes be more reliable after an event, so make sure everyone knows how to contact one another.
Go and check on those around you as soon as you are safely able to do so. Don’t go into their homes if they are damaged or any other damaged buildings, but instead search for safe ways for them to get out. Clean as much debris out of the roadways and driveways as you are able so that emergency personnel can get through.
When you know your loved ones and neighbors are OK, start documenting the damage to your property while you call SERVPRO of North Oklahoma City. Our team is available to respond 24⁄7, which means we can get your restoration started as soon as you call us.
In the hours, days and even weeks that follow a disastrous event, the work that is ahead of you and everyone else will slowly begin to unfold. It is crucial as time passes to still pay close attention to what is happening all around you, including the weather forecasts. Wear shoes that can keep your feet safe from debris, and keep your cell phone charged for additional weather alerts should another storm system head your way.
Preventing additional damage is always the first stage of any kind of restoration, and when our team arrives at your property, this will become their first priority. Tarping the roof, sealing off broken windows or doors and drying out standing water will be the first steps to putting your home back together.
At SERVPRO®, we will work side by side with your insurance company in order to meet any needs you have to ensure a smooth claim process. As the full scope of damage to your home is assessed, you may need to consider housing yourself and your family elsewhere while repairs are completed.
One of the best ways to ensure a smooth recovery is to remain calm. That can feel easier said than done when you are dealing with the reality of a devastating storm, but with a professional crew working around the clock, your home will be as good as new in no time at all.
If a storm leaves your home damaged, contact us for fast recovery. We’re here 24⁄7 when you need us.