Safely Avoiding Harm During Hurricanes and Severe Storms in Tampa

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

During Tampa Storms |Protect Life Before Property

Hurricanes are nothing new to most Florida residents, and to many, they're simply a part of the season. Northerners have their icy winters; Florida has our wet summer and fall months. However, hurricanes carry an unmatched potential for destruction if you're not careful, and many homeowners lose not only their belongings but also their lives if they are reckless during a hurricane. Always heed official warnings, and above all else, remember that your safety is irreplaceable.  In severe hurricanes, many homeowners are concerned with flood damage to their Tampa home first and foremost, often placing themselves in unnecessarily risky positions by remaining in a flooded building too long or indefinitely. Staying out of the way of any potential flooding should always be your priority, and if you know floodwaters or other dangerous situations are impending, you should leave sooner rather than later. 

Heed Official Warnings 

In major hurricanes, lives are often lost due to locals' disregard for official warnings and evacuation recommendations, even when these are made mandatory. Many simply assume that their home is safe, or that this storm will blow over much like the last one and with little damage. Most infamously, many suffered injury or drowning in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina, as they misinterpreted the impending disaster as little more than a heavy storm. Hurricane Matthew that ran up the east coast of Florida did cause several deaths.

Move Valuables and Breakables Upstairs 

If your home is at any risk of flooding, before you leave, you should try to move any electronics or valuables to an upstairs area, attic, or wall-mounted cabinet. This will help to keep items safe and secure above the water line and avoid costly replacements. 

If you need to evacuate the American Red Cross recommends that you take the following steps: 

• Turn off water and electricity at the main valve, breakers or fuses.
• Turn off propane gas tanks that serve individual appliances like a stove or grill.
• Do not turn off natural gas unless local officials advise to do so.  

When a hurricane strikes leaving storm waters behind, SERVPRO of West Tampa is prepared to respond to local calls for help and to restore homes and businesses before their owners have time to worry. Call us at (813) 855-0888.