Be Prepared, Not Scared: Disaster Preparedness for Southeast Cuyahoga County

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

Living in Southeast Cuyahoga County, we experience the beauty of the Great Lakes region firsthand. But with that beauty comes the potential for unpredictable weather events. From summer thunderstorms packing heavy rain to winter blizzards with strong winds, being prepared for potential disasters that could damage your property is crucial. Here at SERVPRO Team Fosdick, your local disaster restoration experts, we want to empower you to take charge and be ready for anything.

Common Disasters in Southeast Cuyahoga County:

• Flooding: Due to our proximity to Lake Erie and rivers like the Cuyahoga, heavy rain or rapid snowmelt can lead to flash floods or river overflows, threatening homes and businesses.
• Lake Effect Snow: Southeast Cuyahoga County is particularly susceptible to lake-effect snow, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and blizzard conditions that can disrupt power and cause property damage.
• Tornadoes: While less frequent, tornadoes can occur in our region, causing significant destruction with high winds and flying debris.

Be Proactive: Prepare Your Home or Business

A little preparation now can go a long way in minimizing the impact of a disaster later. Here are some key actions you can take:

• Develop a disaster plan: Discuss potential scenarios with your family or employees and outline a plan of action. Include evacuation routes, communication strategies, and emergency contact information.
• Assemble an emergency kit: Stockpile non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries. Consider including items specific to winter weather, like blankets and hand warmers.
• Protect your property: Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to avoid water damage from heavy rain or melting snow. Reinforce your basement with waterproofing measures if necessary.
• Know your shutoff valves: Locate the shutoff valves for water and gas lines, so you can quickly shut them off in an emergency.
• Backup important documents: Scan and store copies of critical documents (insurance policies, passports) in a cloud storage service or waterproof container.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the stress and damage caused by a disaster. Remember, SERVPRO Team Fosdick is always here to help. We are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and provide professional restoration services for your home or business.

Stay safe, Southeast Cuyahoga County!