Why Early Storm Prep is Essential for Homeowners

The wind howls, the rain thrashes against the windows, and then, darkness. The Smiths huddled together, flashlights barely cutting through the gloom. Sarah's asthma medication was in the refrigerator, now slowly warming. Tommy cried for his favorite bedtime story, but the books were shadows. Outside, a tree branch snapped, a stark reminder of the storm's power. They'd put off buying a generator for years, thinking it wouldn't happen to them. Now, fear and regret mingled in the stifling air.



Why Early Storm Prep Is Key For Homeowners

Waiting until a storm is on your doorstep is a risky gamble. Power outages bring chaos, discomfort, and even danger. Being proactive with early storm preparation is vital. A standby generator is more than a luxury; it's an investment in your family's safety and comfort when severe weather strikes.

While the Smith family's story is fictional, countless homeowners experience similar scenarios during power outages every year. Proactive storm preparation provides many advantages, especially when it comes to installing a whole-house generator.

When severe storms threaten, uncertainty and worry can quickly overshadow daily life. A whole-house generator provides a powerful antidote to this anxiety. Knowing your essential systems can continue to function, regardless of the power grid's state, brings immeasurable peace of mind. Instead of fretting over potential losses, you focus on your family's safety and well-being, secure in the knowledge that your home is prepared.

Get In Front Of Temperature-Related Issues

Your refrigerator and freezer store hundreds of dollars’ worth of food, and some homes rely on powered medical equipment for the health of loved ones. Outages put these essentials at risk. A generator safeguards your investment in food and protects those most vulnerable. It becomes an extension of your caregiving, providing uninterrupted support for life-saving medications and equipment.

Extreme temperatures accompanying storms can turn your home from a sanctuary to a place of discomfort, even danger. With a whole-house generator, your heating and cooling systems remain operational. You'll regulate your home's temperature, keeping your family comfortable and safe, whether it's sweltering summer heat or a freezing winter storm.

Don't Take Power For Granted

Power outages pose a hidden financial threat beyond spoiled food. Frozen pipes can burst, causing extensive water damage, and power surges can fry sensitive appliances and electronics. A generator minimizes these risks. It acts as an insurance policy, preventing repairs that can cost thousands of dollars and saving you immense frustration.

Powerless homes become informational black holes. A generator ensures that your phones, internet, and devices stay charged. This keeps you connected to weather updates, in touch with loved ones for support, and able to reach out for emergency assistance if the situation demands it.

Make Checklists And Use Them

Being prepared isn't just about having a generator; it's ensuring you are ready for almost anything. Here's a timeline to help you stay on track. Months before storm season is the time to gather essential supplies. Start with a well-stocked first aid kit that goes beyond basic bandages. Include pain relievers, disinfectants, gauze, antibiotic ointment, essential tools, and a first-aid manual. Next, focus on non-perishable food, aiming for at least a three-day supply per person. Canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, crackers, and dried fruits work well. Store a gallon of water per person per day. Battery-powered lights, flashlights, lanterns, and a hand-crank or battery-operated weather radio are important for illumination and information. Add in essentials like toilet paper, hygiene products, trash bags, sanitizer, insect repellent, a whistle, and basic tools. Don't forget to prepare for your furry friends with extra pet food and supplies.

Thoroughly inspect your home's exterior. Check the roof for missing or damaged shingles and schedule repairs immediately. Clean gutters and downspouts, ensuring water drains properly away from your home's foundation. Hire a professional tree service to remove dead or compromised branches that could fall on your home or power lines during high winds.

Finally, take time to review your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. Understand what is covered, such as wind damage, flooding, or damage from falling trees. Know your deductible and coverage limits. Take photos or videos of your home and valuables for documentation purposes. If you need to make updates or have questions, contact your insurance company now to avoid delays and stress later.

Secure Important Documents, Valuables, And The Like

Weeks before storm season, focus on planning and safeguarding vital information. Start by creating a family emergency plan. Discuss safe sheltering locations within your home, such as a basement or an interior room without windows. Establish how you can communicate during the storm if separated and designate a meeting place outside your neighborhood in case evacuation is necessary. Include a plan for pets, ensuring they have supplies and a way to be safely transported if needed.

Next, gather your most important documents. Insurance policies, personal identification like birth certificates and passports, and financial records should be collected. Create copies of these documents and consider storing them both in a waterproof container within your home and digitally offsite, like in a secure cloud-based service. Designate an easily accessible safe location for these documents, a place your family members know about in case you are unable to retrieve them during an emergency.

Batten Down The Hatches

As a storm approaches, take urgent action to secure your property. Focus on minimizing the danger of flying objects by bringing patio furniture, lawn ornaments, grills, potted plants, toys, gardening tools, trash cans, and anything loose inside or into a secure shed. If possible, protect your vehicles by parking them in a garage or under a safe structure. Don't forget to check your yard for smaller items like stones or branches that could still cause damage.

Staying informed is critical as the storm nears. Monitor local weather forecasts from trusted sources like the National Weather Service, and understand the watches and warnings issued. If evacuation orders are given, don't hesitate; follow official instructions. Have a plan in place to leave quickly if needed. Your battery-powered weather radio is a vital backup in case you lose power or internet access.

Finally, charge essential electronics – phones, laptops, tablets, backup battery packs, and medical devices. Prioritize keeping your main communication devices powered up. To extend battery life on phones, disable unnecessary features like Bluetooth and location services. Don't gamble with your family's safety and comfort when severe weather strikes. Contact Tri-State Generator today and let our experts secure your peace of mind with a reliable whole-house generator. Get your personalized quote, explore our financing options, and schedule your professional installation. Be prepared, not powerless – partner with Tri-State Generator.