Storm season is already upon us, and while we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to be prepared. There is no time like the present to start taking preventative measures to help your household be prepared for the unpredictability of Mother Nature.

Whether it be a hurricane, tornado, or something as seemingly routine as a thunderstorm, your property and household should be prepared for any disaster that may strike. The following tips can be utilized to help minimize the impact of the storm season:

• Cut Weak Branches and Limbs: Cut back any dead tree limbs that hang over your home. Dead or loose tree limbs can easily fall on your home, causing additional damage.
  
• Clean Your Yard: Pick up or store anything that could possibly get blown away by high winds, causing further damage to your home. This could include bikes, lawn furniture, grills, etc.
• Cover Windows and Doors: Use storm shutters to protect your windows and doors. Seal windows if necessary to protect them from water damage.
• Charge Electronics: Make sure you have a full battery on your phone and other electronics. Investing in a portable battery bank can ensure your devices have a full charge when you need them most.
• Clean Water: Be sure to store clean drinking water. Often, no power can lead to little or no potable water.
• Non-Perishable Food: Be prepared to not have electricity or running water. Store non-perishable food items that can be easily made and eaten.
• Have Your Car Ready: Fill your gas tank and keep an emergency kit in your car. Moving your vehicle into the garage can help reduce further damage from flying debris.
  

Disaster can strike in the blink of an eye, but taking steps to be prepared can help ensure your property and household stay protected in a time of uncertainty. While we’ve just listed seven tips for being prepared for storm season, it’s important to take into consideration your location, property type, and household. As they say, the best defense is a good offense. Taking an offensive approach to storm season can be the difference between having a well-prepared household and one that is not.