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The Power of Winter Storms in Western South Dakota | SERVPRO of Rapid City
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Rapid City has your back with these helpful tips.
When the winter wind blows around here, it really blows! Strong winter storms are on the horizon for us already this season, so we need to be prepared for the subzero temperatures, blizzard conditions and slippery roads that are bound to be around soon enough.
In order to avoid serious damage and to stay safe while the snow falls, you have to prepare your home for the incoming weather! Check out our tips below to help you prepare before the first serious storm comes our way.
The road conditions can deteriorate quickly in the Rapid City area, which is why it is always recommended to avoid travel when a storm system is on its way. Sleet and heavy snow can make it difficult to travel, and wind can create drafts that could leave you stranded on the side of the road.
Start gathering your supplies and your emergency kit, and dig out your weather radio. Strong storms can knock out power for days, so having a reliable way to be alerted to changing conditions and community updates is crucial.
Include flashlights with extra batteries, a basic first-aid kit, blankets, and safe drinking water and food. You should also have an extra heating source or load up on firewood for your fireplace, just as a reliable backup in case the power is out for longer than you thought.
While you might prepare your home as best you can, you should also have a location in mind that you can travel to if your home simply becomes too cold to stay in. Pick a friend’s home, a public space like our local library or a predetermined warming center.
Use caution when walking around your home after a storm passes. Really deep snow, drifts and wind can make it hard to get around, and it can disorient you really quickly outside. Wait until the conditions improve before going outside to assess your home and start the cleanup process.
Grab your roof rake or a shovel and pull the snow off of the edges of your roof all around your home. This can help reduce your risk of ice dams forming and causing serious roof damage, but it can also take the weight off. Heavy, wet snow can weigh up to 20 pounds per cubic foot, which can add up over time and can even lead to a roof cave-in.
Drifts and blowing snow can also impact the vents around your home. Locate all of the vents leading from your home and clear them of snow and ice buildup. If any vent can’t work properly, carbon monoxide can’t escape safely and it could be dangerous or even deadly for your family.
If your home suffers damage due to the impact of a storm this season, give us a call right away. Heavy snow can damage parts of your home, ice can crack and bust pipes or other components and even strong wind can rip off shingles.
Our team will assess the situation, secure your home and get to work on repairs right way. Our goal is to restore your home as quickly as possible so you can get back to all of the wintery fun that this season has to bring.
Our team is always ready for anything! Contact us at SERVPRO of Rapid City for a quick restoration after suffering damage from a winter storm.