September is National Preparedness Month - Take Time to Prepare Now
8/28/2020 (Permalink)
As summer 2020 comes to a close, what has already proven to be a difficult time due to the novel coronavirus, has become even more challenging due to weather and climate. Several parts of our country continue to face catastrophes due to storms, fires, and earthquakes. Locally, our sunshine state is enduring a massive heatwave along with being in a state of emergency due to approximately 30 wildfires actively burning here in California.
CNN reported last week that on Sunday Death Valley endured the highest temperature recorded on earth since 1913 and possibly EVER! The temperature readings were 130 degrees Fahrenheit and residents describe the extreme heat as being hit in the face with lots of hot hairdryers or like walking into an oven. These excessive temperatures are a result of climate change. Yet along with these triple digits, at least three days last week have brought Emergency Storm Notifications for several SOCAL counties that include, hail, heavy rainfall, and house leveling type of winds. Previously burned areas are of main concern as flooding can quickly occur and be dangerous.
Families already under pressure due to job loss or cutbacks from the pandemic are certainly struggling with bills even more so. Attempting to keep indoor temperatures lower than outside ones is not easy. Last year a friend was caring for her elderly father who was home during the day while she worked. She received a whopping utility bill for over $900 from keeping indoor temperatures comfortable. In addition to the absurd amount of heat, the air quality in many surrounding areas can be harmful so caution is highly recommended if you head outside.
Protecting our health comes first so it is important to ensure that each of us is adequately prepared for an emergency. If we put forth the extra effort now, it will help when the unexpected arrives. If we need to evacuate for a fire that could pop up overnight or a big earthquake, we will have clothes, water, food, and supplies. From this recent pandemic experience, we already know how fast food, water, and basics like toilet tissue will fly off the shelf and leave you without. It is sensible to take action now.
Through whatever type of storm you may face, our SERVPRO of West Covina team is here to help. Always available around the clock for any sort of emergency property damage, you can trust our professionals when it matters most. We enjoy helping our community and the positive results that we get to see post-cleanup make for a rewarding and satisfying line of work.