Thinking before the storm keeps homeowners from losing money
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JACKSON, Tenn. — Emergency management officials said preparing for a storm is important, both to keep homeowners safe and to keep them from losing money. Jackson-Madison County EMA director Marty Clements said not taking extra precautions before a big storm could cost you big bucks later. “Before they go to bed tonight, go out there and survey their house and the outside area,” Clements said. He said this pre-storm surveillance could come in handy if the worst does happen and a resident needs to communicate the damage to insurance companies. Photos of a residence taken before and after a storm help convey damages to insurance companies, including what’s needed for repairs, according to Clements. Clements said one of the leading causes in damages during a storm is outdoor furniture left unsecured. Pieces such as garbage cans, children’s toys and patio sets, including umbrellas, can become flying projectiles in high-gust winds. “When we go out and do damage assessments, we find a lot of the time umbrellas from the patio have been picked up and thrown all the way through windows,” Clements said. Officials said to also keep in contact with friends and family so a location is always known if someone needs help.
