Dealing with Storm Damage in Tampa
1/14/2020 (Permalink)
In the Tampa area, we're used to preparing for storms. These reminders should help you and your family prepare for the next one that comes our way.
Water Preparation
A traditional standing water heater holds up to 40 gallons of clean water. If the water to your home isn’t flowing this is a amazing last resort. However, if there's water going into the home, make sure you check with county sites to find out if you are under a boil water alert or not. Make sure you have 1 gallon of water per person for up to one week stored before the storm hits.
Food Preparation
Canned food and none perishable foods like beans, canned vegetables, and soups are amazing to have around. If you have a small gas cooking device you’ll want to empty out your freezer as fast as possible of any frozen foods so make sure to cook through your perishable foods before your canned foods.
Gas/Fuel
Make sure you have a full tank of gasoline in all of your vehicles. Fuel might become limited during an emergency situation. So you’ll want to make sure you are topped off before the storm hits. As for fuel oil this goes for gasoline for generators, propane for cooking, and lamp oil if you plan to use gas lamps for a lightning source.
Outside of these basic items there are an assortment of other items you'll want to keep handy such as:
- hand cranking can opener
- First aid kit
- Cooler for perishable foods
- duct tape and garbage bags
- Flashlight and batteries
This short list of items can keep you prepared for the aftermath of an emergency. It’s recommended each year you check off an emergency disaster check-list to insure your stocks are full before a disaster happens.
Give SERVPRO of South Tampa a call when you need help when preparing or dealing with storm damage!