During the winter, ice storms can cause serious issues. When a substantial ice storm happens, it could lead to widespread power outages that can last for quite a while before everything is repaired and working properly again. Make sure you are completely ready in case an ice storm does happen so you can avoid needing emergency water removal in Springfield Missouri.
Make Sure Your Home is Ready
Your home needs to be properly prepared to handle any winter weather, especially ice storms. Start by insulating your home as much as possible. If possible, install storm windows to help insulate your home even further. Another option is to cover your windows from the inside with plastic. This adds some additional insulation by removing any drafts, so the heat inside the home won’t escape as fast.
Pipes inside your home also need to be properly insulated. Wrapping insulation around any accessible pipes can help. If the weather does get cold enough, open cabinets that have plumbing inside to help prevent frozen pipes and let a small stream of water continue running, so there’s no standing water in the pipes that is easier to freeze.
Have an Emergency Kit Ready to Use
It’s hard to predict how long you will be without power if an ice storm hits, so it’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit available. This kit can be made out of a small plastic box and should be placed somewhere it can be easily found, even if the power is out. Inside the emergency kit, stock non-perishable food, water, any medications, flashlights, extra batteries, medical supplies, and anything else that might be needed. Be sure to purchase a car charger for the phone if you don’t already have one and consider buying a solar charger just in case the power is out for a while.
Take Care to Protect Your Home
Before the winter storm season begins, make sure tree branches are trimmed to avoid having one fall on power lines or your home. If power is knocked out to your home, your sump pump won’t work. When the ice thaws, it can flood your basement and require emergency water removal.
Make sure to have sufficient fuel available for backup heating sources in case the power does go out. If you have a generator, learn about how to safely use it before it’s needed and never run it inside the home or garage.
If the power does go out, try to avoid opening the refrigerator or freezer, so food stays cold as long as possible. All appliances should be unplugged and only one light should be left on. This way, if there is a power surge as the power is being repaired, it won’t destroy the appliances in your home.
Be Prepared in Case Travel is Required
It’s best to stay inside during an ice storm, but it’s still a good idea to make sure your vehicle is winterized and that the gas tank is full so the fuel line won’t freeze. If travel is necessary, keep an emergency kit in the vehicle in case there is an accident, or the vehicle breaks down.
If you ever experience water damage in your home because of an ice storm and you need emergency water removal, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration in Springfield, Missouri. We’ll get it fixed for you fast to minimize any potential damage from having standing water in your home.