24/7 Emergency Service
Essential Family Emergency Preparedness Tips for Wisconsin Residents | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties
10/2/2024 (Permalink)
Use these helpful tips from SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties to assemble an emergency kit to keep your family safe when disaster strikes.
Living in Wisconsin offers its own unique set of challenges when it comes to emergency preparedness. From severe winter storms and flooding to tornadoes and power outages, understanding how to prepare for these specific threats is crucial for keeping your family safe.
At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties, we recognize the importance of being well-prepared and are here to share essential tips to help you navigate potential emergencies effectively.
Wisconsin’s winter weather can be particularly harsh, with heavy snowfalls, blizzards, and frigid temperatures posing significant risks. To ensure your family’s safety, start by creating a winter emergency kit that includes essentials like warm blankets, extra clothing layers, and non-perishable food. It’s also important to have a battery-powered radio to receive weather updates in case of power outages.
Make sure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions with a snow shovel, ice scraper, and an emergency roadside kit. Additionally, protect your home by insulating pipes to prevent freezing and ensuring that your heating system is functioning properly. Regularly monitor weather forecasts during winter months and have a plan in place for staying warm and safe if you become stranded or if power goes out.
Wisconsin is susceptible to heavy rains and flooding, especially in the spring and summer months. To prepare for potential flooding, know if you live in a flood-prone area and familiarize yourself with local flood alerts and evacuation routes. Elevate your essential utilities, such as electrical panels and heating systems, above potential flood levels. Additionally, consider installing sump pumps and backflow valves to help manage water intrusion.
In case of severe storms, which can bring high winds and tornadoes, ensure your family has a designated safe area in your home, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor. Have an emergency kit ready that includes flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit, and practice storm safety drills with your family to ensure everyone knows how to respond in a crisis.
Power outages can occur year-round due to storms, high winds, or other unforeseen events. To prepare for extended outages, store a supply of candles, matches, and a battery-operated lantern. Maintain a stock of non-perishable food and water, as well as a manual can opener for emergency meals. Consider investing in a generator if you live in an area prone to frequent outages.
Ensure that you have important contact numbers saved in your phone and a backup method for charging devices if the power goes out. It’s also wise to have a plan for communicating with family members if you’re separated during an outage or other emergency. Regularly review and practice your emergency preparedness plan to keep everyone informed and ready.
By taking these steps to prepare for the specific threats faced in Wisconsin, you can enhance your family’s readiness for various emergencies. At SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties, we are dedicated to helping our community stay safe and resilient.
For more information on how to prepare for emergencies or to discuss how our services can assist you, contact us today. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.