Making A House A Home

Severe weather can strike without warning, and being prepared means you and your family will have the resources needed to survive until emergency services can find you or until you can get your home back to normal. Here are a few things you can do to prepare your home and your family for severe weather.

Invest In A Standby Generator

Having a standby generator provides a way to keep your essentials powered on even in the event of a power outage caused by the storm. Your generator can be used to keep foods in your refrigerator from spoiling, and it can also be used to power up and charge mobile devices. Remember, however, to only run the generator as needed, as this can help to conserve resources during long-term emergency situations.

Stock Up On Tarps

Tarps come in handy for a variety of uses during severe weather. Use a tarp and some rope to create a protective cover for your central air conditioning unit, and have a few handy to cover up windows broken by debris during the storm. If your roof begins to leak, the tarp can be rigged to provide cover from the water coming into your home until you can have the roof repaired.

Prepare Outdoor Gear Kits

Keeping everyone in your home  dry and comfortable is important during severe storm. Consider creating outdoor gear kits for every member of your family for this purpose. The kits should include a poncho, hat, rain boots, and a spare set of clothing. Long underwear, extra socks, and hooded sweatshirts also come in handy for both stormy weather and extreme cold. Be sure to also add gloves and scarves to each kit for extra warmth. Keep these items stored in zippered storage bags or plastic storage bins labeled with each person's name. If you have small children in your home, be sure to check the sizes for their kits to ensure you have the right apparel ready in an emergency.

Portable Kitchen Equipment

You might not be able to use your kitchen during the emergency, so be sure to have alternate ways to prepare food available. You can use your standby generator to power a hot plate, and camping stoves also provide a convenient way to prepare meals. If you use a gas- or oil-based camping stove, be sure to use it outside or in a well-ventilated area. An old-fashioned coffee percolator or teapot are helpful for making a morning cup of coffee and tea, and they can both be used on a hot plate or on your camping stove.

With the right gear, you and your family can remain calm and comfortable during severe weather. Use these tips, and look for other options you can use to prepare your home for an emergency. Contact a company like Anderson Water Systems for more help.