How to Prepare for a Winter Storm

Winter storms are often unpredictable, bringing intense blizzards, sometimes feet of snow, sleet, icy roads, and countless other hazards to cities and towns across the United States and Canada. If you have the chance to prepare in advance, there are certain steps that are frequently recommended to ensure your home or business is ready to withstand the freezing temperatures, snow, and ice associated with winter storms. In addition, protecting your loved ones and ensuring they are properly prepared for the oncoming freeze and subsequent damage is of the utmost importance.

In this article, we will outline the preparation of your home or business for a winter storm and freezing temperatures. While your safety is highly important, rest assured SERVPRO® can help in the storm's aftermath if your property damage requires cleanup, restoration, and construction services. Both indoor and outdoor preparation are imperative as you prepare your property for an oncoming winter storm, so it's important you consider the following steps and remember how SERVPRO® can help. This includes such tasks as: 1) preparing the outside of your home or business by ensuring vehicles and roofs are in order, 2) preparing furniture, and 3) having supplies such as a SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Kit on hand. Failure to prepare may cause costly damages, so it's in your best interest to take action as early as possible in the event of an oncoming winter storm.

Winter Storms Explained

By definition, a winter storm is the output that occurs when wind meets precipitation at freezing temperatures, resulting in snow, mixed snow and rain, and/or freezing rain. If there is low visibility and sustained strong winds, this often qualifies the winter storm as a blizzard, which can prove very hazardous. Winter storms can occur anywhere in the world, but are especially common across the United States and Canada.

Preparing the Outside of Your Home or Business for Heavy Snow and Ice

Before a winter storm strikes, it’s important to prepare the outside of your property in order to reduce the chances of damage. This includes clearing away debris, such as leaves and other ground clutter, and inspecting the roof for any damage, or signs of wear and tear that could cause problems in the event of a heavy snow load or gusting winds. Make sure to also clear out gutters and downspouts, and inspect any trees for broken branches that could potentially cause damage.

Ensure Vehicles and Furniture Are Secure

If you have any vehicles, boats, or other large items outside, make sure to store them in a safe place or cover them up with a tarp or waterproof cover. Additionally, if you have any loose furniture or items on your deck or patio, make sure to bring them inside to avoid any damage.

Preparing for a Winter Storm and Freezing Temperatures

Once you’ve taken the steps to prepare the outside of your home or business, it’s important to make sure you are properly prepared to handle the oncoming winter storm. This includes stocking up on essential supplies such as food, water, and blankets, as well as an emergency kit that includes items such as flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. It’s also important to make sure your furnace is in good working condition, and to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are in good working order.

SERVPRO® Can Help in the Event of Property Damage

In the event of a winter storm, there is always the potential for property damage to occur. If your home or business suffers from water damage, flooding, frozen pipes, wind damage or other forms of damage, SERVPRO® can help. Our team of professionals is available 24/7 to help with cleanup, restoration, and construction services to ensure your property is back in order as quickly as possible. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your home or business is prepared for an oncoming winter storm. Be sure to check both local and national weather forecasts regularly and take the necessary steps to prepare in advance, and remember that SERVPRO® can help in the event of property damage.

With over 2000 franchises across the United States and Canada, rest assured there is always a SERVPRO® location nearby, ready to assist with any of your winter storm needs. Our franchises live and work in the areas they serve, so you’ll have a team of local restoration technicians with the reach and resources of a national brand. We handle both small residential jobs, and multi-unit commercial losses, and are always Here to Help. Our teams are dedicated to returning every space to pre-loss condition and making it “Like it never even happened.”® So, when you are struck by winter storm damage and require any array of cleanup, restoration, and construction services, give our team a call 24/7 365. We are prepared to tackle any size job and restore your peace of mind as quickly as possible.