Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is a beautiful city located in the Susquehanna River Valley. While it is known for its quaint attractions and historical landmarks, it can also be vulnerable to natural disasters such as floods, fires, and severe storms. However, increased awareness and preventative measures can help you live in Harrisburg worry-free.
Read on to learn more.
Is Harrisburg, PA, prone to natural disasters?
Harrisburg is prone to flooding due to its low elevation and proximity to the Susquehanna river. The risk is further exacerbated by heavy rainfall, melting snow and ice, and high-water levels resulting from upstream dams that are not appropriately maintained. Due to its location in the mid-Atlantic region, the city is also vulnerable to extreme weather events, such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes.
On the other hand, several house fire disasters occur several times a year in the state of Pennsylvania as a whole. In fact, recent data shows that it is one of the two deadliest states (along with New York) when it comes to house fire fatalities. This is attributed to the fact that Pennsylvania has many older homes and buildings, especially at risk due to outdated wiring and heating methods.
That’s why various restoration companies have been providing property damage restoration services to help protect and restore homes affected by these disasters.
How to Prepare for Natural Disasters While Living in Harrisburg, PA
Here are a few tips to keep you and your family and your property safe when living in Harrisburg:
Create an Emergency Kit
A well-stocked emergency kit can be invaluable in times of flood, storms, or fires. Your kit should include the following:
- Food (non-perishable items like canned goods, crackers, etc.)
- Drinking water
- First aid supplies
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- First aid kit
- Weather radios
Find Local Resources
In the event of a natural disaster in Harrisburg, many local organizations and institutions are available to provide assistance. These include the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), local fire departments and police officers, the Red Cross, and other non-profit organizations.
If a fire or water damage happens, it can be invaluable to have a local restoration company’s contact number ready. They are well-equipped to handle any necessary mitigation and repairs to get your home back on track.
If you don’t know any, ask for recommendations from those you trust. You may also find online by searching “flood restoration near me” so you can quickly get in touch with professionals if needed. Make sure to read reviews and check the company’s credentials before deciding.
Be Prepared with Insurance Coverage
Take the time to review your current insurance policies to make sure they cover natural disasters like floods or fires. If there is a coverage gap, find out how to supplement it with additional insurance plans to protect against flooding or other catastrophes.
Flood is not often included in your homeowner’s policy, so review the different coverage options available. Consider getting flood insurance, which can be purchased from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Stay Informed About Local Weather Conditions
With modern technology, staying informed about potential threats is easier than ever. Local news reports can provide essential updates on weather conditions and alerts as they happen. You can also access social media accounts that offer real-time updates on weather reports and other potential disasters.
Follow the Local Government’s Advice on Safety Protocols
During holidays or special occasions that require you to use electrical or natural gas appliances, follow safety protocols or recommendations to avoid accidents.
For example, Christmas lights and candles should never be left unattended. Be sure to unplug them before leaving your home or going to bed at night. Similarly, always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when using barbecue grills and never leave them unattended.
In case of fire, evacuate the building and call 911 or your local fire department. In case of severe damage, contact fire and smoke damage restoration experts for help. You may visit this page to find more info about how it works.
The Bottom Line
Living in Harrisburg, PA, is a wonderful experience, but natural disasters can occur anytime. Preparing and taking the necessary precautions to protect your family and home is essential. The tips outlined in this article can help ensure you are adequately prepared in case of a disaster.
