Before, During, & After the Storm

June 2021

Before the Storm

Prepare your emergency water supply.
Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings.
Use storm shutters or board-up windows to protect your home from high winds and debris.
Secure or store loose yard items like patio furniture or garbage cans.
Consider purchasing flood insurance, as regular home insurance may not cover flood hazards.
Keep important documents like insurance information updated in case they are needed for emergency response.
Make sure SVEC has your current contact information.
If you have special medical needs, register with your county’s emergency management office.
Make sure vehicles have full tanks of gas and are operating properly in case an evacuation is needed.

Take refuge in a designated storm shelter or an interior room. Always stay indoors.
Use flashlights, not candles, during any power outage.
Stay away from floodwaters, as they may contain sewage or dangerous animals such as poisonous snakes.
Only use generators if they are outside and away from windows.

Use protective gear like gloves during any cleanup.
Avoid any power lines, as they may still carry electricity.
Never attempt to remove any tree limbs or branches from power lines.
Report any electrical outages in your area to SVEC.
Give emergency and utility vehicles the right of way to allow for faster recovery.
If evacuated, monitor reports determining when it is safe to return home.
Document any property damage with photos. Contact your insurance company about any damage sustained.
Contact friends and family to let them know you are safe.