Certainly, the most important thing is to keep you and your family safe. The secondary thing is to do whatever you can to mitigate any damage to the home and your personal belongings. Much damage mitigation can be done in preparation of a natural disaster.

• Depending on the type of natural disaster, it may be necessary to leave the home and get you, your family and pets to a safe location.
• It may be necessary to turn off the home’s main gas line, main water supply and electricity.
• Bring inside or tie-down exterior personal property that may cause damage or injury to others if it becomes unsecured.
• In extreme cold weather, you must insulate external water pipes to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Conserve fuel. Winter storms can last for several days, placing great demand on electric, gas, and other fuel distribution systems (fuel oil, propane, etc.). Lower the thermostat to 65°F (18°C) during the day and to 55°F (13°C) at night. Close off unused rooms, and stuff towels or rags in cracks under the doors. Cover windows at night.
• Consider having more than one heat source in case the power goes out, such as a fireplace or wood-burning stove with dry firewood, or a gas log fireplace. Also have extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats on hand.
• Fill gallon containers with water and place them in the freezer to help keep food cold.
• Keep abreast of local city, state and county agency’s alerts, updates and advice.
• Stay informed of messaging from Tricon Residential. Depending on the type of natural disaster, Tricon Residential will have detailed information available to ensure your safety and the protection of your home and property.