Safety Tips For Strong Winds

The wind has been so strong it almost blew my grandma away when we were walking in Waikiki (she had to hold on to a pole no joke)…she lost her dole whip ice cream but at least we didn’t lose her. Funny story but we do need to take it seriously! The forecasts for the next few days predicts heavy showers, thunderstorms with winds at 34mp and gusts as high as 50mph. I put together a few reminders, SAFETY tips, and extra precautions to minimize potential risks to your home. Please stay safe, keep dry, and hold on to your grandma…Have a blessed week. 

Home SAFETY Tips!

1. Clear debris from catch basin

During heavy rainfalls, your outside drain can act as catch basins where water can accumulate. Checking and clearing any drains will help reduce the risk of water building up and causing pressure on the foundation.

2. Ensure that drains are flowing properly

Make sure that any drains located outside stairwells, window wells, and egress exits are draining water properly. If they are connected to a sump pump system, you can slowly pour water into the drains to make sure the drain line is not blocked and there is clear passage of water to your sump pump.

3. Check gutter downspouts

Make sure that your gutters are free-flowing and leading water away from the house as much as possible. Blocked gutters during heavy rains can cause rain to spill over the side of the roof and cause water to pool near the foundation. This can cause unnecessary hydrostatic pressure on the foundation.

4. Check the driveway

Driveway curbs should channel water so that it runs off into the street or away from the home. Sealing open cracks in the driveway can prevent water from gathering under the driveway.

5. Trim your tree branches

Trim dead limbs or limbs that could bring down power lines or crash through the windows (please don’t do this during the high winds) The beautiful plants could cause a lot of damage if it comes crashing into your home.

6. Secure loose items

Move loose items like toys, lawn furniture, trashcans, or small potted plants to a shed or inside your garage. If there are larger items outside that you cannot move indoors, secure then as needed with tie-downs or sandbags.

7. Prepare an emergency kit

High winds are a major cause of blackouts so keep an emergency kit handy with everything you need such as a flashlight, radio, water, etc. Here’s a link with an example of an emergency outage kit. https://www.appalachianpower.com/outages/faq/EmergencyOutageKit.aspx