Preparing Your Home for a Storm – from American Dream Realty

This past weekend, we had one of the worst storms that we have seen in quite a while for New Jersey. The nor’easter brought on heavy amounts of rain, devastating winds, and major flooding in some parts of the state. While Hurricane Joaquin made a quick turn out to sea (thankfully), it’s still a good idea to be prepared for the next big storm, whenever that may come. Preparation may be the only thing that can keep both your family and your property safe.

Undoubtedly, the most important thing you can have in your house to prepare for a storm is a “ditch bag”. Generally a boating term, these bags are just regular duffel bags that you fill with necessities and can be accessed almost immediately. While the contents of the bag are entirely your choice, we recommend having a few items: A three-day supply of water, first aid kit, battery powered radio, flashlight, batteries, and blankets. Feel free to add to this list as you see fit.

Make sure you check your gutters for leaves or clumps of debris that can clog up the spout. Clean these out promptly, as a fully-functioning gutter system is tantamount to keeping leaks out of your home.

Secure any outside furniture or move outside belongings indoors. This one is more common sense than anything, but it is still good practice.

Know how to turn your utilities off. This one is extremely important if you do not know how to do so, because they can save you from major damage to your home if things get bad.

Keep your cars filled with enough gas, and be sure to have enough food to last at least three days. In case of an emergency, you do not want to have to stop at the gas station (which may or may not be open) nor be out of food.

Finally, make sure you have games to play with your family! Since you will all be inside, it might be time to wipe the dust off of that old game of Monopoly, put down the phones, and have some good ‘ol family fun!

Any veteran of Sandy knows that storms can be utterly devastating to both life and property; which is why we believe at American Dream Realty of South Jersey that safety is a priority—we care for our clients well after the closing date.