7 Emergencies Every Homeowner Should Be Prepared

When you’re a homeowner, while you may be relying on it for safety, security, and shelter, you’re just as responsible for its own safety and care. While we may prefer that day-to-day life goes by as smoothly and calmly as ever, life does have a way of throwing some unexpected problems at us and, in some cases, these events can become real emergencies if you’re not careful. As such, you, the homeowner, should have a plan to deal with some of these most common emergencies, and here, we’ll look at what that plan might entail.

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House Fires

Let’s start with one of the most potentially dangerous and damaging. House fires can start quickly and spread just as rapidly, so a rapid response is vital. Make sure that you have working smoke detectors installed in every room, testing them monthly. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and near heat sources. Have an escape plan for every room and practice it with your household. Make sure that everyone in the family knows the “stop, drop, and roll” procedure, as well. One of the most important things in a fire is to make sure you and your family don’t waste time looking for or going back in for valuables, but rather that you get out of the home and call 911 as soon as possible.

Severe Weather

If you’re in a part of the world that’s likely to see some harsh weather, whether that’s snowstorms, hurricanes, or otherwise, you had better be ready for the disruptions they can cause. Keep your home ready, such as by trimming the branches of any trees near your home and securing any loose outdoor items, such as furniture that could be kicked up by the wind. Being ready to leave the home temporarily for safer ground might be a viable strat and, if you do that, you need a go-bag ready with essentials like water, medications, cash, and ID. Know your area’s evacuation routes and shelter locations ahead of time so that you don’t have to research and make those decisions in a high-pressure situation..

Power Outages

Some areas can be affected by extended blackouts, whether due to grid issues nearby, weather problems, or otherwise. These can get in the way of food storage, heating, and communication. If you’re in such an area, then it may be wise to consider getting a backup power source as a generator, installed into your home. Regardless, have a plan on what to do when the lights go out, such as having an accessible box that’s easy to find (even in the dark) containing flashlights, batteries, a portable phone charger, bottled water, and non-perishable foods. When the power does go off, make sure to keep your fridge and freezer tightly shut as much as possible, and to unplug anything connected to power outlets to prevent power surges when the lights come back on.

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Plumbing Emergencies

When the plumbing fails and there’s suddenly water coming out, whether slowly or rapidly, you need to act as quickly as possible. Whether it’s a burst pipe or backed-up drains, serious water damage can spread fast and be very expensive to repair. For that reason, take the time to learn where your home’s main water shut-off valve is ahead of time and know how to use it, so you can shut off the water to prevent flooding. Make sure that you have the number of an emergency plumbing professional saved on your phone and written down somewhere easy to find. Acting quickly can reduce any property damage and repair costs significantly.

Security Threats

While home invasions or break-ins may be rare, it’s still not the kind of situation you want to be caught off guard in. As such, be ready to protect your household. Check the locks and decide whether they need to be replaced with more secure alternatives. Consider a home security system using motion lights and smart cameras that can both deter intruders and alert you if there’s any suspicious activity. If an intruder enters, prioritize safety: hide and call 911. Don’t attempt to confront them unless absolutely necessary. In most cases, you want to prepare your home as best as possible with the right security measures to prevent that encounter from ever happening.

Health Emergencies

With the right knowledge and supplies at hand, you can handle a wide range of health incidents at home, and perhaps even save a life. Whether it’s a fall, allergic reaction, accident with a tool, or sudden illness, being ready is vital. This includes having a well-stocked first-aid kit that you check once every couple of months for items that have expired or are nearing their expiry date. Make sure that every adult in the household knows basic CPR and the Heimlich maneuver, and that everyone knows when and how to call 911. If a household member has a known condition (like asthma or diabetes), keep their medications accessible and educate others on what to do. This can include keeping a card in their wallet that can inform anyone of their condition.