How to Prepare Against Utah's Most Common Natural Disasters

It's September, which means it's National Preparedness Month! This year, let's take a look at how we can prepare against some of Utah's most common natural disasters: wildfires, floods, severe storms, and winter storms. Depending on where you live in the state, you may be more at risk for one type of disaster than another. But regardless of where you are, there are steps you can take to be prepared.

Wildfires

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, Utah is currently experiencing an above-normal risk for wildfires. So far this year, there have been over 1,200 wildfires that have burned nearly 200,000 acres in the state.  If you live in an area that is at risk for wildfires, it's important to have an evacuation plan in place. You should also know how to protect your home from embers and make sure your insurance policy covers wildfire damage.

The best way to protect your home from a wildfire is to create a defensible space - a cleared area around your home where trees and brush have been removed. This will give firefighters a better chance to defend your home if a fire does break out. You should also make sure your home is outfitted with smoke detectors  and sprinklers, and that you have a supply of water on hand in case your water lines are damaged.

Floods

Utah is no stranger to floods. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, flooding is the number one cause of weather-related deaths in the state. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it's important to have an emergency kit ready so you can evacuate quickly if necessary.  Your kit should include items like non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, and clothes.

You should also be familiar with flood warning signs and know what to do if you see them. For example, if you see water begin to rise rapidly or come up onto the roadway, that's a sign that you should evacuate immediately. If possible, move to higher ground and stay there until the flood has passed. Lastly, you should also have a plan for where you will go if you need to evacuate.

Severe Storms

Severe thunderstorms are relatively common in Utah during the summer months. While they don't usually last very long, they can pack a powerful punch. High winds, hail, lightning and tornadoes are all dangers associated with  severe thunderstorms.

To prepare for a severe thunderstorm, you should have an emergency kit ready and know where to take shelter. You should also make sure your home is secured against high winds by removing loose items from your yard, and trimming trees and shrubs. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, take shelter immediately in a basement or an interior room on the lowest level of your home.

To stay safe during a severe thunderstorm, make sure you have a safe place to take shelter - inside a sturdy building or hard-topped vehicle - and avoid contact with anything that conducts electricity, like power lines or metal pipes. Once the storm has passed, be on the lookout for downed power lines and stay away from them until utilities crews can arrive to deactivate them. 

Winter Storms

Winter storms can range from light snowfall that poses little threat, to major blizzards that can knock out power and paralyze travel.  In Utah, winter storms usually happen between December and February.

To prepare for a winter storm, make sure you have a supply of non-perishable food and water, as well as a first-aid kit. You should also have a plan for how you will stay warm if your power goes out, and make sure your home is insulated against the cold.

If you do lose power, try to stay in one room of your house to conserve heat. Close off any unused rooms and stuff towels or blankets under doors to keep the heat in. And, of course, never use a generator or other gasoline-powered engine indoors - the fumes can be deadly.

Stay safe this winter by being prepared for storms before they hit. By following these tips, you can make sure you and your family are safe no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

In summary, being prepared for a natural disaster can mean the difference between life and death. This September, take some time to familiarize yourself with the risks associated with natural disasters in Utah and make sure you are prepared in case one strikes. For more information on how to prepare for specific types of disasters, visit https://beready.utah.gov/. And remember: when disaster strikes , All Pro Services is here to help with our  Utah disaster cleanup team. We're standing by 24/7/365 to help get your life back to normal as quickly as possible .