A Storm Prep Kit Is Essential All Year Round

We dodged what could have been a very serious storm last weekend, but don’t think that we’re out of the woods just yet. An active Atlantic hurricane season won’t officially end until November 30th, right around the time that snow can start showing up. So how can you be prepared for a storm of any kind? Here are a few of my favorite supplies. 

1. Portable Generator. When a storm knocks the power out, a generator can be a lifesaver. But a permanent one can be costly. Instead, why not invest in a portable generator that can easily be stored in the garage? Many of the models on the market today are lightweight, efficient, and can handle multiple appliances and electronics at once. 

2. Gas. While gas is essential to run a generator, it’s smart to make sure you have a full tank in your car and a backup can in the garage in case of an emergency. If the power goes out for any length of time, you might need your car for heat, air, or even as a charging station. 

3. Ice. While you’re at the gas station, pick up a few bags of ice to store in the freezer. Food will keep cold in a closed refrigerator for four hours, but after that, time starts ticking. I also recommend getting some dry ice packs, which can be stored anywhere and will only get cold once activated. They don’t stay chilled for long, but they can really come in handy short-term for essentials like medication.

4. Batteries. A lot of people love rechargeable batteries but if the power goes out and you don’t have a way to recharge them, they are pretty much useless. Keep a pack or two of standard batteries for your flashlights and essentials. 

5. Water. This is probably the most obvious one, but well worth a mention. If for any reason you lose access to clean drinking water, having a stash is always a good idea. Before a storm hits, it’s also smart to fill your bathtub so you have access to non-potable water for flushing, washing, and cleaning.

6. Food. Yes, you want to make sure you have food in the house, but don’t go too crazy. If you lose power, you’ll likely end up throwing out a lot of what you bought, so instead focus on pantry items with a long shelf life.

7. Chargers. Keep all essential items such as phones and computers fully charged, and consider purchasing a portable charging bank as a backup. Just don’t forget to keep that backup charged as well.

8. Battery-powered radio. We are all so used to the internet that it seems almost impossible to get news any other way. If you’re left without power and WiFi and you rely on the interweb, you’ll really understand the meaning of feeling disconnected. A battery-powered radio will ensure you can get news and emergency communications.

9. Emergency contacts. Write your emergency contacts on a piece of paper and store them in a safe place. Keeping the phone numbers for police, fire, medical, and power companies will ensure you can reach them if you need to. 

10. A small rake. Yes, that’s what I said. From hurricanes to snowstorms, one of the biggest causes of property damage is flooding. By keeping drainage clear, you’re more likely to direct water away from your home and flowing the way it should be. A rake or shovel is a handy tool to get rid of excess debris that might be clogging downspouts or streetside drainage. 

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Wind Damage Tips To Prepare Your Home for Future Storms

This week’s wild weather was not to be taken lightly. I’ve had calls from all over the area to fix roofs, repair gutters, and replace siding that was damaged. While high winds aren’t very common, they can cause major headaches for homeowners, especially those who have to go through the process of making an insurance claim. With that being said, here are my six tips for “weathering the storm” that inevitably comes with unanticipated damage to your home.

Check your policy now

Every insurance policy is unique and it’s really important to review your coverage annually to make sure you’re up to date with the inclusions and exclusions. Most homeowner's policies cover damage due to wind but other storm-related issues such as flooding are usually not part of the deal. The State of Connecticut Insurance Department has a basic homeowner’s storm damage FAQ on their website, but because all policies and insurers are different, it’s worth talking to your agent.

Be very careful

Damage can’t always be seen, so it’s important to exercise extreme caution. Inspect the power lines around your home as well as the trees. Even if nothing is down now, a broken limb could fall later, so it’s better to be diligent. Also, be sure to watch for leaks in the days and weeks after bad weather. High winds often rip off shingles, leaving roofs exposed to water. 

Make use of your camera

The most common types of storm-related damage are to roofs, windows, siding, and windows. As you inspect your home, take photos or everything and don’t move anything unless it's necessary. Video is also a great way to document any potential damage. The more evidence that you have, the better off you’ll be when you go to make an insurance claim. 

Call your insurance company

Once you’ve assessed any potential damage, you can get in touch with your insurance provider. Do this as soon as possible and be ready with all the documentation that you’ve collected. Your insurer will be able to assess the damage to your home and help you understand what's covered by your policy. They’ll also connect you to a claims agent if required.

Make repairs

After you’ve reported any damage, it’s time to clean up. Leaving exposed areas uncovered and not fixing leaks will create much bigger issues, so be sure to clear and patch any problem spots. Do not ever try to touch downed power lines or electrical equipment - report those to your electricity provider or even your town’s fire department. 

Hire a good, local contractor

Believe it or not, there are some hacks out there who chase storm damage, taking advantage of homeowners who need a fast fix. Don’t fall for these traps - look for someone local, reputable, who has a good track record, and is fully licensed and insured. The Better Business Bureau is a great place to get started.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

No Way Hurricane Jose - Tips to Keep Your Family Safe During Hurricane Season

While Connecticut isn’t an area known for hurricanes, the storms that have left our southern neighbors in serious need of help had me thinking about how we should prepare our homes and families in the unlikely case that a major storm hits.

The Atlantic region hurricane season runs from June 1st through the end of November, so being prepared is still essential even as fall settles in. According to the National Weather Service, 12 tropical storms form in the Atlantic every season and half gain enough momentum to be categorized as a hurricane. Once a hurricane hits, there are three main risks that we face in our area: coastal flooding from storm surge, wind damage, and inland river flooding due to heavy rains. If Harvey, Irma, Maria, and Jose have taught us anything, it’s to be prepared. According to the state’s official emergency guide, every household should have the following list of items readily available and easily accessible in their homes:

• One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

• At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• First aid kit

• A whistle to signal for help

• Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• A manual can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

• Local maps

• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

• Food and litter requirements for any pets

• Medicine or any special need items, including diapers for infants

In addition to a safety kit, it’s also vital to sit down with your family and create a plan of action in the event that a storm does hit. Here are the most important topics to cover:

1. Choose a safe place in your home where you can go if there is an emergency. Rooms with no windows are generally best.

2. Choose two exit routes out of your home in case you have to leave.

3. Pick two places for your family to meet in case you get separated. It’s a good idea to choose one place in your neighborhood and one place outside of your neighborhood.

4. Write down the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of two emergency contacts that anyone in your family can contact in case you get separated. Choose one person in the state and one person out of the state.

5. Have arrangements for a place that you can stay for a few days in case you can’t make it back to your home.

6. Make a plan to keep your pets safe and have supplies ready for them.

7. Know how to shut off all vital utilities in your home including gas, electricity, and water in case you are asked to do so.

8. Make sure everyone knows the plan.

Too many of us decide to make storm preparation a priority when it’s too late. Visit the state’s Emergency Preparedness Resource Center at www.CT.gov to access all the information you need to keep your family safe and do yourself a favor - don’t wait.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.