How to Prepare Your Home for Summer Weather Hazards

Summer’s heat, storms, and power outages in senior living Lakewood can be more than an inconvenience. A “ready-set-go” checklist for your home will help you, and your loved ones, age in place comfortably.

Go inside your house and start with air conditioning. 

If you have central air, have your system serviced by a professional before the mercury soars. A technician will clean coils, inspect refrigerant levels, and replace filters to increase efficiency and decrease energy bills. Window units should have vents vacuumed and side panels replaced to fit tightly and prevent hot air leaks.

Windows are one of the first lines of defense. 

Check window seals for air leaks. Replace any cracked or brittle weather stripping and apply reflective film or interior cellular shades to further prevent solar heat gain. During the day, close curtains on the south and west sides of the house.

Lightning and electrical storms are fire risks. 

Install whole house surge protectors or plug sensitive electronics such as computers, televisions, and medical equipment into high quality surge strips. Unplug electronics when a severe thunderstorm warning is issued and keep a battery powered radio handy in case the internet goes out.

Put together an emergency cooling kit. 

Consider a small, portable, USB powered fan, instant cold packs, spray bottles for misting, and cotton blankets that can be dampened for evaporative cooling. Keep these items in a designated, easy to access bin so they can be quickly grabbed in the dark if needed.

Keep a three day supply of bottled water and non perishable, no-cook foods such as canned fruit, protein bars, and shelf stable milk. Remember a manual can opener if you normally use an electric one. In memory care non-perishable medications that require refrigeration are stored in insulated pouches with frozen gel packs as soon as an outage occurs.

Outside, make sure gutters and downspouts are cleared of debris.

Clogged gutters can push rain water under roof shingles during a downpour, causing leaks and mold. Downspouts should be long enough to direct water at least 3 feet from the foundation to prevent seepage into basements.

Shrubs, branches and outdoor furniture must be storm ready too. Trim any tree limbs that overhang the house, roof or power lines. Bungee cords can help secure patio furniture in place. If storms are forecasted, it may be wise to secure lightweight objects or store them in garages or basements to prevent windborne projectiles.

Build a neighborhood phone tree. 

Exchange phone numbers with two neighbors close by. Each of you can check on each other after a storm passes and provide assistance if needed. Having a plan will help ease concern. 

A few hours of preparation in senior apartments living Lakewood will ensure that summer’s surprises are minor inconveniences, not major emergencies.