WAKEFIELD, Mass., Sept. 13, 2017 — September is National Emergency Preparedness Month, and with hurricanes Harvey and Irma making many aware of the need to prepare for natural disasters, greater Boston-based 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, a BBB A+ rated home service company with over 850 5-star reviews online, offers tips for dealing with violent storms.
A storm can cause problems from electrical outages, flooding, and water damage. Five years ago, Hurricane Sandy brought winds of over 80 miles per hour to Massachusetts. Statewide, damage from the storm amounted to $20.8 million, according to the National Climatic Data Center.
“Planning is the key to saving lives and protecting property during a hurricane or other natural disasters,” says Ryan Williams, general manager of 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric. “Homeowners should take steps to be ready for a storm long before the winds and rain arrive.”
128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric shares these tips to prepare for emergencies:
Protect your family
Put together a family communication plan so loved ones can stay in touch with one another during a storm. Additionally, have a plan for your pets so they can survive the disaster as well.
In case of an evacuation order, residents need to know evacuation routes and have a plan for where to stay. Know where emergency shelters are located.
Assemble a disaster supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, first aid supplies, medications and copies of your critical information. If flooding is a possibility, store these items higher up.
If you are not in an area that is advised to evacuate and you decide to stay in your home, plan for adequate supplies – at least three days’ worth – in case you lose power and water and you are not able to leave due to flooding or blocked roads.
Monitor text and email emergency notification systems. The Federal Emergency Management Agency smartphone app is a helpful tool.
Protect your home
Outside the home, trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to protect your roof. Also, clear and repair gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage.
Know where to locate shutoff valves for the home’s utilities.
Protect windows and doors from wind and debris.
Have a sump pump installed in the basement to prevent flooding.
Purchase a portable generator for use during power outages.
Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage.
“For more than 25 years, we’ve had the pleasure of helping our community prepare and respond to significant weather events,” Williams said. “Our customers, employees and community recently joined together and stepped up at our donation drop-off day to support the Houston, Texas, community, and our thoughts at this time are with the people affected by Hurricane Irma.”
For homeowners in the Boston area who would like help in preparing for natural disasters, the professionals at 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric are ready to assist. Please call 1-888-419-4233 or visit www.call128.com.
About 128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric
128 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, was founded in Wakefield, Massachusetts more than 25 years ago. Since its start, 128 PHCE has expanded and grown to become Eastern Massachusetts’ most trusted and consistent plumber, heating and air conditioning service company with over 800 reviews online. For more information, call 888-419-4233 or visit www.call128.com.
