Hurricane Preparedness Tips From Water Damage Restoration Experts

At Rochester Restoration, we’ve seen firsthand the kind of damage a hurricane can do to homes and businesses in Rochester, NY, and the surrounding areas. While our area may not take a direct hit as often as coastal communities, we are no strangers to high winds, heavy rain, and flash flooding that come with hurricanes and tropical storms sweeping inland. And when these storms hit, they hit hard.

We have helped countless families and property owners bounce back from water damage, mold growth, and structural problems after a storm. Through it all, we have learned what works and what doesn’t when it comes to hurricane preparedness. So we’re here to share the best tips straight from the restoration experts that are practical steps you can take to protect your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

• Start preparing before a hurricane is on the radar
• Know your property’s flood risk and insurance coverage
• Secure the outside of your home to minimize damage
• Protect the interior from potential flooding
• Stay safe during the storm, avoid floodwaters, and turn off utilities, if needed
• Act quickly after the storm to remove water and prevent mold
• Call Rochester Restoration for professional help with cleanup and restoration

Start With a Plan

Preparation always begins with a solid plan. Don’t wait until a storm is already headed your way. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Know Your Risk: Even in Western New York, we face risks from storm surges along Lake Ontario, river flooding, and saturated ground from heavy rains. Look up your property’s flood zone and know your evacuation routes.
2. Build an Emergency Kit: You’ll need enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. Pack bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, prescription medications, hygiene items, important documents, and cash. Don’t forget pet supplies if you have animals.
3. Make a Communication Plan: Have a list of emergency contacts. Make sure everyone in the household knows where to meet or who to call if you get separated.
4. Get the Right Insurance: Standard homeowner’s policies often don’t cover flooding. Review your coverage and consider purchasing flood insurance if you are at risk.

Secure the Exterior of Your Home

Once a storm is in the forecast, acting quickly is important. Here are ways to reduce water and wind damage:

1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters cause rainwater to overflow and pool around your foundation, increasing the risk of basement flooding. Keep them clear to allow water to drain away properly.
2. Trim Trees and Branches: High winds can turn weak branches into projectiles. Trim anything close to your house, car, or power lines.
3. Bring Items Inside: Move lawn furniture, grills, trash cans, potted plants, and anything else that could blow away indoors or secure them tightly.
4. Seal Doors and Windows: Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows and doors. Install storm shutters or board up large windows, if needed.
5. Check Your Roof: Loose or missing shingles can let water seep in. Secure any weak spots, and if you see significant issues, call a roofing professional ASAP.

Protect the Inside of Your Home

The interior of your home is just as important. Water damage can destroy valuables and create long-term mold problems if it is not addressed quickly.

1. Move Valuables Off the Floor: Keep important items, electronics, and keepsakes on shelves or upstairs. Don’t store anything valuable directly on the basement or ground floor.
2. Back Up Your Data: Storms can knock out power or damage electronics. Back up your computer and important files to the cloud or an external hard drive.
3. Use Waterproof Containers: Store documents, photos, and small electronics in waterproof bins or bags.

What To Do During the Storm

When the storm hits, stay safe. Here’s what our team recommends:

1. Stay Inside: Keep away from windows and glass doors. Monitor the news and weather alerts on a battery-powered radio or phone.
2. Avoid Floodwaters: Don’t try to drive through flooded streets. Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and a foot of water can sweep away a car.
3. Turn Off Utilities If Necessary: If water starts rising inside your home, turn off electricity and gas to prevent fire and electrocution.
4. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Know who to call if you need help. That includes local emergency services, family members, and yes, a trusted water damage restoration company.

What To Do After the Storm

Once the storm passes, you’re not in the clear just yet. Recovery starts with a calm, careful approach.

1. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of all damage before you start cleaning up. This will help with insurance claims.
2. Beware of Hazards: Watch out for broken glass, exposed nails, unstable structures, and downed power lines. Wear protective gear like gloves and boots.
3. Remove Standing Water ASAP: The longer water sits, the worse the damage gets. Use pumps, wet/dry vacs, or call in a professional team like ours.
4. Dry Everything Thoroughly: Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours. Open windows, use fans, and dehumidifiers to dry out floors, walls, and furniture, and to improve your indoor airflow.
5. Call a Restoration Pro: Rochester Restoration can help assess structural damage, prevent mold, and restore your home safely and efficiently.

How Rochester Restoration Can Help

We specialize in water damage restoration, mold remediation, and storm recovery services. Our team is trained, certified, and equipped with industrial-grade tools to handle even the worst disasters. We serve Rochester, NY, and surrounding communities with 24/7 emergency response.

Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Fast response times so we can start mitigating damage right away
• Thorough inspections to uncover hidden water damage
• Safe and effective mold prevention and mold removal
• Full restoration services to bring your property back to pre-storm condition
• Clear communication and help with insurance claims

We know how stressful storm recovery can be, and we’re here to make the process smoother and less overwhelming.

Let’s Weather the Storm Together

At Rochester Restoration, we believe that good preparation is the best defense against severe weather conditions. If the worst happens, however, remember that you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our team is standing by to help you recover quickly, safely, and completely. Whether it’s a flooded basement, soaked drywall, or potential mold growth, we’ve got the experience and equipment to handle it all.

We’re here for you 24/7. Call us today to schedule a free consultation or get help in an emergency.