September is Peak Hurricane Season

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage in Middletown

It's that time of year again!  September is peak Hurricane Season.  An above average season for storm activity has been predicted for 2022. Here are some tips from FEMA to safeguard yourr home and/or your business against the potential Hurricane damage.  At your home cover all of your home's windows with precut plywood to protect them from high winds.  Secure all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and other items that are not tied down.  Keep all trees and shrubs manicured so they are more wind resistant.  Turn off propane tanks.  Maintain a supply of water for sanitary purposes.  In your business make sure you carefully assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help with all your mitigation and restoration needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Contact our office at 302-735-9940 for assistance.

Winter Ready?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Snow in Felton DE

The start of 2022 has brought extreme cold, wind and snow to the Northeast. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is ready for whatever the winter has in store for the area, but is your home or business prepared?

Heavy precipitation, freezing temperatures and winds can be destructive to your home or office. It is imperative to proactively winterize your home and office.  Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should be inspected to ensure they are operating properly. Clogged gutters can result in roof damage or interior water damage.  Downspouts should flow away from your property, if not they could result in foundation issues or water in the basement or crawlspace. 

SERVPRO of DOVER/Middletown is here to help 24/7 with all your water, fire, mold and reconstruction needs.  

Warning vs Watch: How to Prepare

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

snowfall in Dover

Now that Winter in upon the region, it is important to stay informed and up to date on the latest weather conditions.  Understanding weather terminology will guide you on how to prepare for an inclement forecast. 

Ready.gov explains the difference between a winter storm warning, watch and advisory as follows:

Winter Storm Warning - issued 12-24 hours before hazardous winter weather, in the form of heavy snow, freezing rain or heavy sleet is expected. 

Winter Storm Watch - issued 12-48 hours before the possibility of heavy snow, freezing rain or heavy sleet is expected.

Winter Weather Advisory - issued for snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle and sleet accumulations that will cause significant inconveniences and dangerous conditions.

In preparation for any upcoming winter storm the following tips are recommended:

• Weather strip your windows and doors to keep the cold and the elements outside
• Stock up on bottled water, food and prescriptions
• Insulate your Pipes
• Consider a backup generator
• Purchase batteries for flashlights and radios
• Stay informed with weather apps and notifications

Whatever the weather may bring, you can count on SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown. We are here to help 7 days a week. 

Prepare Your Property for a Storm

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

Believe it or not, it is still hurricane season. We continue to encourage residents and business owners to prepare and protect their properties from potential store damage. 

Below is a list of recommended actions provided by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)  for homeowners as how to safe guard their properties. 

FEMA Tips for your Home prior to the Storm

• Cover all windows in the home with plywood or hurricane shutters to protect against high winds
• Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and any other items that are not tied down
• Trim all trees and shrubs so they are more wind resistant.
• Turn off utilities as instructed.  Turn off propane tanks.
• Fill large containers with water to ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes.

When disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Weathering the Storm

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Damage to School Gym in Dover after a Storm ripped off the roof

Hurricane Season along the Atlantic Coast begins June 1st and runs through the end of November. This season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an increase in storms that will develop into hurricanes. The NOAA is forecasting at least 10 hurricanes this season versus 7 in previous years. Of the 10 potential hurricanes, 5 are projected to evolve into major hurricanes, with winds up to 111 mph. 

Now is the time to prepare and plan for these potentially destructive storms. A good start is to understand the terminology beginning with the difference between a storm watch vs. a warning. 

• WATCH describes conditions that are favorable for severe weather. You should remain alert for further warnings. 
• WARNING indicates severe weather has been spotted or indicated by radar and that you should take immediate shelter. 

Since these storms can develop into hurricanes quickly within hours it is imperative to stay alert and informed. It is recommended that you regularly check the weather forecast as well as utilize mobile weather apps and emergency alerts. 

SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown is here to help in the event of a disaster. We have an expert team trained in water remediation and reconstruction. 

Severe Weather Safety

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Are you Ready?

Severe weather can happen any time, anywhere.  Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

-10,000 sever thunderstorms

-5,000 floods or flash floods

-1,300 tornadoes

-2 landfalling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 650 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage.  Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know your risk.  The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather can impact you, your business, and your family.  Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts in your area.  Severe weather comes in many forms, and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazard scenarios.

Take action.  Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for the home and business.  Put together or purchase an emergency kit.  Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an example.  Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with family members, co-workers, and friends on social media.  Your preparedness efforts may inspire others to do the same.

Please contact SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown for more readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO's Emergency READY Profile (ERP).

Stay safe from storms!

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Dover Tornado

Before the storm

*Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.

*Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.

*Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage

During the storm

*Avoid contact with corded phones and electrical cords.

*Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers.  Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

*Avoid contact with plumbing.  Bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

*Stay away from windows and doors.

After the storm

*Never drive through a flooded roadway.

*Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.

*Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Basic Emergency Supply Kit

-Water (1 gallon per person)

-Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

-Manual can opener

-Battery operated radio

-Flashlight

-First aid kit

-Whistle to signal help

-Clothing

-Dust mask or bandana

-Plastic sheeting, trash bags, duct tape

-Wrench or plier to turn off utilities

-Hygiene items

-Important documents

-Cash

-Fire Extinguisher

-Matches in a waterproof container

If one day you find that your home has suffered storm damage please reach out to SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown to help you rebuild!

Storm and Flood Damage Can Be Devestating!

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage can be devastating! 

Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. The professionals at SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 have the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. 

Residential and Commercial Storm Restoration Services:

With more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry, and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 professionals are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property.

Residential Services

Whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or top-to-bottom home cleaning, you can trust SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 professionals to make your house feel like home again. They have the training, experience, and equipment to quickly get your home looking its best. 

Commercial Services

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown 302-697-9776 professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Winter Storm Cleanup and Restoration

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the Name You Can Trust for Winter Storm Cleanup

It Never Snows in Delaware, or does it?  One thing for certain that we have all learned in 2020 is that life and circumstances are very unpredictable.  

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776  has the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

Frozen Pipes:

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776 can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include:

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

Regardless of the Winter Storm, They Can Help

Cold weather and winter storms can cause significant damage with little warning. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown (302) 697-9776 can handle any size disaster. 

Hurricane Season

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Local School lost roof due to a Tornado that manifested from Hurricane Isaias winds.

Hurricane season has already begun and several named storms have developed in the Atlantic, Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico. Hurricanes can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property damage.

The National Weather Service lists the following as potential “hurricane hazards.” 

*Storm surge is the abnormal rise of water generated by a storm’s winds. This hazard is historically the leading cause of hurricane related deaths in the United States. Storm surge and large battering waves can result in large loss of life and cause massive destruction along the coast. Storm surge can travel several miles inland, especially along bays, rivers and estuaries.

*Flooding from heavy rains is the second leading cause of fatalities from landfalling tropical cyclones. Widespread torrential rains associated with these storms often cause flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated. 

*Winds from a hurricane can destroy buildings and manufactured homes. Signs, roofing material and other items left outside can become flying missiles during hurricanes. 

*Tornadoes can accompany landfalling tropical cyclones. These tornadoes typically occur in rain bands well away from the center of the storm. 

*Dangerous waves produced by a tropical cyclone’s strong winds can pose a significant hazard to coastal residents and mariners. These waves can cause deadly rip currents, significant beach erosion and damage to structures along the coastline, even when the storm is more than a 1,000 miles offshore.

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property and take steps to protect your home or business. For more information on recovering from water damage caused by weather-related disasters, contact SERVPRO of Dover/Middletown.

Is Storm Water Clean Water?

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

As a kid, I can personally remember playing in the water that would collect on my street after a major rain storm.  But little did I know that not all storm water is clean. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), who sets the standards for the cleaning industry and water damage restoration training, says that there are three levels or types of water damages. 

Category 1: Clean water

This water damage is from sanitary sources, such as an overflowing sink or tub, burst water pipes, failed supply lines to appliances, drinking fountains, or vertical falling rainwater.

Category 2: Grey water

This water is from sources that could make you uncomfortable or ill if ingested. Washing machine, dishwasher, or urine-tainted toilet overflows belong in this category.

Category 3: Black water

This is the worst classification of water and could cause severe illness if ingested. Sewer backups, flooded rivers, feces-tainted toilet overflows, or stagnant liquid that has bacterial growth are all

Once SERVPRO of Dover/ Middletown technicians arrive on the scene at a home or business, they quickly assess the situation using special water and moisture detection equipment and start the restoration process. 

After your home floods, you may think your home and its contents are a lost cause, but many of your furnishings and belongings can be restored. With professional restoration help, your flooded home can be cleaned up, dried out, rebuilt, and reoccupied sooner than you think!

Disaster Readiness!

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

In the last ten years the U.S. has officially declared 1,000 disasters.

in 2017 we had 3 major natural disasters alone; Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

The goal is to plan now, because the odds are that you will be affected one day.

Here are 6 things to know before one of these disasters strikes!

1. Know where your gas shut off valve is located. Shutting off the gas before an emergency can help avoid gas leaks and potential explosions.
2. Know where your electrical shut off is. Electrical problems cause an estimated 25,900 house fires each year and this number grows during a disaster.
3. Make an emergency communication program. Family members will know where to go, what to do, and how to reconnect.
4. Make sure you have insurance, and make sure you know what it covers- flooding? Earthquakes? Etc. Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster. A few inches of water can cause thousands in damage.
5. Plan for your pets, most shelters will not accept pets due to public health reasons unless it is a service animal. So search ahead to find a shelter who allows pets.
6. Know your evacuation routes. Many communities have them, make sure you know these routes as in a disaster every second counts.

Always remember you can visit www.FEMA.org for more information on disasters and how to plan! 

Storm Warning Vs. Storm Watch : What to know!

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

With spring bringing strong storms into our area it is best to be prepared.  Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning?  A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms which may produce large hail or damaging winds.  A watch is issued by the SPC (Storm Prediction Center).  A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information or a reliable spooter report.  A warning is issued by the local National Weather Service office. You can always tune into your local news channel or always tune to 162.550 on your radio for the weather band here in Delaware. They will issue all Storm warning and watches for your area. 

Disaster Recovery Team

8/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has answered your call for help in storm situations.  We have developed a specialized storm team and large loss response network to provide the resources you need - management, crews and equipment to get service to your property when other's cant.  As the storms roll out, SERVPRO rolls in to help!  When localized storms overwhelm local restoration companies, SERVPRO's storm response helps to manage the volume you need served.  We are #1 in storm response because of early warning systems, pre-emptive action plans, rapid mobilization, local management and pricing, and dedicated resources available at client's request.  While our competitors finish their work and leave the storm area, SERVPRO has Franchise Professionals that live in the area and are locally available long after other companies have moved on. Customer Service Matters!

Storm Preparedness For Pets

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

Pets are just as important as any family member to most people, so why would you not make them a part of your preparedness planning? There are several things you can do to make sure they stay safe as well during an emergency.

After Hurricane Katrina, "It's estimated that over 15,500 animals were ultimately rescued.  Of the 15,500 animals rescued, only 15%-20% were ever reunited with their owners."

Pet Emergency Kit

Food.  At least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container.

Water.  At least three days of water specifically for your pets. 

Medicine and medical records.

Important documents.  Registration information, adoption papers and vaccination documents.

Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and leash

Crate or pet carrier

A picture of you and your pet together

Familiar items such as treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet.

Evacuations

While practicing fire escape or evacuation plans, be sure to include pets.  If an evacuation happens, don't leave pets behind as they can be lost or injured.

Identification

Microchipping pets is a great way to locate them.  Most veterinary clinics and shelters have scanners that will read the microchip information to help find a pet's owner.

Staying Safe From Summer Storms

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

The potential for severe weather increases in our area during the summer months.  Hurricane season in the Atlantic begins June 1st and runs through November 30th.  While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to help ensure you are ready when disaster strikes.

BEFORE THE STORM

*Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.

*Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.

*If you are outdoors, get inside a building.

*Shutter windows and severe outside doors.  If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.

DURING THE STORM

*Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

*Avoid contact with corded phones.  Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.

*Avoid contact with electrical equipment and cords.

*Avoid contact with plumbing.  Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

*Stay away from windows and doors.

AFTER THE STORM

*Never drive through a flooded roadway.

*Stay away from storm damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.

*Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Storm Damage and Cleanup

1/22/2019 (Permalink)

Devastating storms are something that are inevitable, they will happen, the question is when and how severe they will be. SERVPRO Of Dover Middletown is part of national initiative through SERVPRO corporate called STORM TEAM. Storm team allows SERVPRO'S from across the nation to gather on a affected area that has been hit with a devastating storm or nation tragedy (i.e. Hurricane Sandy, 9/11, hurricane Katrina, etc. ) Once a team of SERVPRO's have been dispatched to an affected area we are able to communicate with a local branch and come up with a game plan on how to handle the issues once the storm has subsided. We are able to provide mitigation services for families and business that have been affected from tear outs to water removal, and then we are able to communicate with the customers and the local branch in order to set up restorative plans for put back work. This is just one of the major tasks that most of our SERVPRO franchises offer.

Preparing your business for a storm.

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather conditions seem to make the national news on a regular basis. With the possibility of additional weather events including higher than average flood water, commercial property owners who prepare in advance can better protect their business and their customers. Ensure your assets remain safe from water damage by taking steps before you are faced with a hazardous situation.

Consider Flood Insurance

Insurance companies typically view flooding as rainwater that hits the ground in quantities. Many types of standard insurance policies do not cover rain-related damage. Flooding can devastate a business, leaving substantial cleanup costs and destruction in its wake. For companies that are not in a flood plain, flood insurance may be a cost-effective option. 

Address Building Weaknesses

Flood waters move swiftly, and a flooded building can be dangerous. It may not be possible to take preventative action once the water begins entering the building. Consider what can be done in advance to protect items in key areas of the building:

Clear storm drains and gutters of debris. 
Remove valuable items from the basement and store them elsewhere.
If there are fuel tanks, make sure they are securely anchored and up to code specifications.
Purchase a sump pump.

Safeguard Business Critical Data

Keep backup copies of crucial documents such as insurance policies, vendor information and emergency contact numbers. If possible, store them off-site to avoid water damage. Otherwise, put them in an area that is least likely to be impacted by flood water, such as a second floor or in a waterproof safe. Keeping the data safe can help restore business quickly.

Create an Emergency Plan

Disaster recovery planning can protect employees and guests during an extreme weather event. Flood water rises quickly, so having a documented plan in place beforehand can ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a flooded building. Keep the contact information for water damage restoration technicians up-to-date. Address building and employee readiness and make sure there is a detailed evacuation route that can take people away from danger in flood conditions.

What to do after a Hurricane.

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricanes have devastated countless families and homes in Delaware in the past. Storm damage to a home from a hurricane is a stressful experience for a homeowner in many ways and can even be worse when they are not sure what steps to take afterward. In the event of your home becoming damaged by a storm, take the following steps:

1. Take Photos and Document the Damage 

It is important that all storm damage to your home is well documented to make your insurance claims process much easier. Take as many photos of all areas affected and make sure to compile a list of all damaged items as well.

2. Perform Emergency Repairs

After sustaining damage, prioritize the repairs that have to be made to the property. Your focus in doing so should be to ensure that additional damage does not occur. Some examples of these emergency repairs include covering broken windows with plastic or securing tarps to your roof to prevent rainwater from entering. Any permanent repairs should be placed on hold until your insurance claims adjuster is able to review the damage. Until your adjuster is aware of the full extent of the damage and has all materials accounted for, you should refrain from throwing out any damaged items.

3. File a Claim Quickly

It is important to know that insurance companies sometimes work on a first-come, first-serve basis, especially if overwhelmed by many claims during a hurricane season. Because of this, you should work to get the process started and file a claim as soon as you are aware of the damage. After contacting your insurance provider, provide your claims adjuster with photos, an inventory of affected items, and fill them in on the extent of the damage. Your adjuster will come to your property, further assess the damage, and work to determine the payout amount your insurance will cover.

4. Secure Safe Lodging

Safety should be the number one priority at all times for you and all inhabitants of the home. If the home is uninhabitable, or unsafe for any reason, we strongly recommend finding a safe place to stay while repairs are being made to the home. Keep in mind that if your damage is part of a covered claim, the loss of use coverage in a standard insurance policy will typically help pay for your family's lodging. Ask your claims adjuster if you are covered by your policy.

Further Information

SERVPRO of Dover Middletown is a professional storm damage company that specializes in water damage, fire damage, and mold damage. Our emergency services are available 24/7 to assist you at SERVPRO of Dover Middletown. Contact us anytime for services.

When Disaster Strikes-Quick Response is needed

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

When a disaster strikes, it is imperative to respond quickly in order to prevent further damages and complications. Fires, mold infestations and floods from broken pipes, overflows or heavy storms – all such disasters must be dealt with in a timely manner. If not handled immediately you could experience on or more of these issues:

• If water-damaged structures and contents are not dried out quickly and correctly,  Growth can begin to grow within the first 24 to 48 hours after the disaster.
• Excessive water can cause: rusting in metals, corrosion in electronic components, cracking, splitting or warping of furniture items, color bleeding or transfer in fabrics, furniture stains and secondary damage to upholstery, drapery, clothing, wallpaper, photos and papers.
• Fire or smoke damaged properties can also experience irreversible damage, regardless of the size of the fire. Soot residue is highly acidic and can pit or corrode the metal in doorknobs, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, etc. It can also etch glass in windows, mirrors and cabinets, causing them to look soiled and cloudy. Moreover, plastics, appliances, fabrics and vinyl windows can become discolored.
• The safety and security of the home can be compromised. Windows and doors may become weak and function improperly, wet materials may collapse and electrical installations and components can be a  hazard when they come in contact with water. Slips and falls are also potential dangers.

If you’re not sure how to act after experiencing water, fire or growth problems in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Dover Middletown. We have a team of restoration professionals ready 24/7/365 to help you.

Being Prepared for Storms

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Storms can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americas cope with an average of the following intense storms:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 land falling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98% of all presidentially declared disaster are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know Your Risk.

The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action.

Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example.

Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-workers and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire other to do the same.

Share your experience with neighbors, friends, and family and help them build a plan as well!

Thunderstorm Watches and Warnings. What to know.

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm producing Lightning.

With summer and soon fall bringing strong storms into our area it is best to be prepared for these situations. Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning?  A severe thunderstorm watch means that the potential exists for the development of thunderstorms which may produce large hail and/or damaging winds.  A watch is issued by the SPC (Storm Prediction Center).  A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information or a reliable spooter report.  A warning is issued by the local National Weather Service office. Make sure that your family and yourself are prepared and have a plan in place for all watches and warnings! You never know when it may come in handy or save your lives!

Hurricane Preparedness Week 5/15-5/21

5/12/2016 (Permalink)

#itonlytakesone #hurricanestrong

It's that time of year again!  Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 15-21, 2016.  Here are some tips from FEMA to Prepare your home and/or your business.  At your home cover all of your home's windows with precut plywood to protect them from high winds.  Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.  Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.  Turn off propane tanks.  Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes.  In your business make sure you carefully assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating.  Identify operations critical to survival and recovery.  Plan what you will do if your building, is not accessible.  For more great tips please visit:  http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/weatherreadynation/hurricane_preparedness.html