AUGUSTA, Ga (WJBF)- People are starting to prepare for severe weather ahead of Helene.
The storm is expected to bring high winds, with possible flooding and tornados, which could mean damage to your property. There are some things you can do to minimize the potential damage.
The first thing you want to do is look over your insurance policy and find out exactly what it covers. You may consider adding additional coverage ahead of the storm to be safe.
Ready.gov suggests that you trim trees close to your home to prevent damage from flying limbs. They also say that you should clean out your gutters. Water from blocked gutters can pool on the roof causing damage.
CSRA school closings, delays due to Helene and severe weather Secure outdoor items like patio furniture and grills as well as any smaller items that could fly through windows. You may also want to cover your windows with shutters or plywood to keep them from breaking.
You will want to prepare for the worst if your family is hit hard by the storm. There are some essentials you should have in case of a long term power outage.
Storm gusts like the ones Helene may bring could knock out power for thousands in our area.
Have an emergency kit with things light flash lights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
Be sure to stock up on water, one gallon per person for several days for drinking and fill up sinks and the bathtubs for washing.
Multiple CSRA high school football games rescheduled Keep non-perishable foods stocked just in case the power goes out for a long period of time.
Put important documents into a safe deposit box and make sure to fully charge your phones and portable chargers in case of an emergency. You will want to fill your vehicles up with gas as well.
Red Cross of Augusta says volunteers will be on hand during and after the storm to help anyone who needs it.
Local power companies preparing for an impact from Hurricane Helene “Really for our community, the best thing that they can do is obviously get prepared. But if they do need help to call 1-800-Red Cross, that’s the most efficient way that gets them in the system. Then it gets to our volunteers and we can respond,” said Susan Everitt, executive director at Red Cross Augusta.
Everitt added that the Red Cross is preparing to open shelters if necessary, though they aren’t anticipating that it will be.
“If that is the case, the really easiest way for people to find out that information is there is a Red Cross app. It’s called Emergency App. It’s totally free. And you put in your location and it will show you the path of every storm and also the shelters that will open up and all the information about that shelter.”
Here are some links with more information on how to prepare for severe weather.
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