Hurricane Dorian Preparedness in NC

Labor Day weekend for the majority of North Carolinians typically means a relaxing, long weekend, enjoying the last remnants of Summer before heading into the Fall.  However, nature had other plans this year. Hurricane Dorian is quickly approaching the Carolinas, having already left a path of destruction in the Bahamas and is currently threatening the Florida coast.  Here at CBT of NC, we want to ensure our fellow North Carolinians are prepared during this time. Below we provide some tips on hurricane preparation in North Carolina.

Plan Accordingly, Regardless of Your Location

While this may seem redundant, time and time again we see people have to learn in the harshest ways when they do not prepare accordingly for hurricanes, particularly of this magnitude.  Do not make the assumption that because you are not located on the coast that you are safe from harsh winds and heavy rains. Hurricanes can impact areas more than 100 miles inland, meaning that even Raleigh can be subject to damage, particularly with hurricanes as strong as Dorian.

Evaluate Your Areas Flood Potential

The first important step in preparing for a hurricane is evaluating which areas in your community are the most prone to flooding and at the highest risk of structural damage.  The potential impact of hurricanes in these areas can be devastating if proper precaution isn’t taken.   While nobody wants to have to evacuate their home, unfortunately it is a grim reality for many.  Make sure you have an Evacuation Route in place, and have an effective strategy in place for either evacuation or sheltering based on your surroundings.  Make sure to have your vehicle ready with a full tank of gas, as there is no telling whether you will have easy access to gasoline in the scenario you have to evacuate.  

Gather Supplies For an Extended Period of Time

Having supplies that can last a while can go a long way if damage is extensive.  Many of these items can be found in your home, while others you may have to make a trip to the store to acquire.  A couple of these items include:

• Special needs items for family members and pets, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, hearing aid batteries etc.
• Food supply (both for adults, babies and pets if applicable) that do not require refrigeration
• Water supply, with at least one gallon of water per person per day.  At the very minimum, have a three day supply of water
• Extra clothing
• First aid kit
• Cash
• Copies of credit cards, IDs, and medical records
• Maps and emergency contact numbers
• Flashlight & batteries

How To Keep Your Home Safe During a Major Storm

As mentioned above, your home in Raleigh could be at risk when a hurricane hits the NC coast.  Severe storms are a likely byproduct of these hurricanes, and could cause some real damage to your home.  

Secure Loose Objects

Make sure to secure loose objects, such as grills, propane tanks, patio furniture, and other heavy items that may be susceptible to fast moving winds.  These items can cause severe structural damage to your home, as well as being damaged beyond repair themselves, which could result in thousands of dollars in damages.  

Eliminate Water Damage

Make sure to de-clutter drains and gutters to allow proper drainage from heavy rains.  Having check valves installed can also go a long way in preventing sewage backups. Basements are also at a greater risk of flooding, so make sure to install sump pumps and alarms for water intrusion.

After The Storm

People often forget that planning for the aftermath of the storm is just as important as withstanding the storm.  High winds, fallen trees/branches, and a plethora of issues could lead to extensive property damage, which in turn can lead to the lengthy process of filing insurance claims.   Make sure you collect key papers and records, and keep them in a security deposit box and waterproof container with your emergency kit.  These will come in handy in case you need to sign up with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Be sure to have copies of the following:

• Birth certificate/Adoption certificates
• Social Security cards
• Marriage license/divorce papers
• Passport/Green card
• Will
• Insurance policies
• Bank statements

Also, make sure you take photos of your personal belongings.  Creating a digital or paper inventory will allow residents to expediently and efficiently report damage in the wake of a storm.  This inventory should record a complete list of your home’s contents. If possible, include receipts, estimated value, descriptions and photos/videos.  Once your inventory is complete, make sure it is easily accessible.

Contact the Experienced Raleigh Waterproofing and Insulation Specialists

There is no better time than now to begin preparing your property for the threats that hurricane activity pose. To ensure that your home is protected from potential flooding, consider basement waterproofing or crawl space waterproofing to keep your home safe and dry. Contact our experienced team at Crawl Space & Basement Technologies. We can be reached by phone at 919-847-7072 or by completing the online contact form.