Are you ready for Central MA’s next major snowstorm? Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling of Worcester is here to help you determine who you should call first in the event of a local disaster. Plus, we are sharing some tips for your out-of-state loved ones.
The First 5 Calls to Make After a Blizzard
Who should you call when a disaster strikes your home? In some cases, this depends on the nature of the catastrophe. If a major blizzard has hit Central MA, you may be in the middle of a natural disaster that is affecting hundreds or thousands of families. In this case, landlines and cell towers could be affected, limiting who you can contact immediately.
In general, here are the most important calls to make:
1. First Responders – Emergency services are likely to be overwhelmed in the event of a snowstorm. Call 911 only if there is an immediate danger to your life and health or that of your family. Otherwise, contact neighbors or friends to help you out (or so you can help each other).
2. Utilities – A broken gas line or a downed overhead power line can be a serious hazard after a blizzard. Call the utility company right away to address the issue. Move to a safer area until a crew arrives and corrects the problem.
3. Loved Ones – You’ll want to contact family and friends to let them know you are OK and to check on their well-being. In the event of a major disaster, use text messaging when possible to minimize the overload on the voice network. Get in touch with at least one person who lives outside your local area. This individual may serve as an important contact point in getting you the help and information you need (such as the distribution locations for the American Red Cross or local relief agencies).
4. Shelter – If your home is unsafe or completely destroyed in a major disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may be able to provide temporary housing. The number is (800) 621-3362 to register for assistance. FEMA may also have vital information about where to find necessities like food and clothing after a blizzard.
5. Restoration – Once you’ve ensured your family is safe, it’s time to start the process of rescuing your home. This involves contacting your insurance company, submitting a claim and working with a company that specializes in property damage clean up and repair. Most policies require you as the homeowner to make immediate reasonable repairs to your home following a disaster to prevent additional damage and will reimburse you for these repairs. Don’t wait for a contractor to knock on your door (there will be all kinds of fly-by-night repair companies coming through your town after a snowstorm). Be proactive in calling a licensed restoration company that specializes in repairing the specific type of damage your home sustained in the disaster.
Additional Tips:
The amount of warning you have before an event can also affect your communication strategy. You might be able to make some of your calls ahead of time rather than after the fact. For example, notify your employer that you probably won’t show up for work tomorrow because a major weather event headed your way is likely to cause damage.
And if you know someone who is experiencing a disaster in their own city, be in contact with them and let them know you’re there to help. You may be able to serve as a resource to them even from thousands of miles away.
Paul Davis Restoration of Worcester, MA is available 24/7 for emergency needs.
"Your work is EXCELLENT and my family and I are very happy with the results!!"
"Your team worked efficiently, accomplishing this job in three days and going the extra mile to repair minor damage to the lawn. You cleaned up all debris meticulously; were most careful not to cause damage to the building, shrubbery, or our neighbor's property... We could not be more pleased with the entire process of working with your company to complete this project."
"Very good work, Mike was very nice and I am satisfied.
"
"They really went above and beyond, trying to figure out where the leak was coming from. They brought
"
in dehumidifiers plus took down a portion of the wall. So wonderful to the seniors!!!
"They are excellent, in every way imaginable, they were timely, their attention to detail, the quality of
"
work, the communication. It was all wonderful. As a condo association we are going use them for ongoing projects.
"The workers were professional; we felt comfortable with them when we weren't home.They did a great job; they were very professional, did work in timely fashion, cleaned up, fixed any issues I brought to their attention; I like Bob Stone."
"He came right away and helped me in a horrible situation. I liked that they came right out like they said
"
they would and got started on the repairs.
"We are so pleased with the work that they have done...we are so happy with everything!
"
"They are very professional, very responsive, and they get the job done.Great job! Keep it up!
"
"People that came out to do work were very personable and aware of the situation(water damage over whole house). Great guys, right on top of things, very comfortable with them in the house. Work that has been done has been superb, no complaints at all. Great communication.
"
"They've been very easy to work with; very good at staying in touch with us and returning phone calls; very accommodating. The work quality is excellent. The contractors (painting, floor) were excellent as well. Chuck was excellent to work with.
"
"
I was very pleased with Edwin and the rest of Paul Davis' staff. They were very professional and courteous, and made sure they did the job right from the first day to the last day."
"Bob and Mike were wonderful, as well as Walter, the man who came to the house. He really took the
"
time to explain what he was doing.
"They are very responsive, flexible, they explain things very well, it's definitely a good experience…They walk you through the process, make it easier for you, and give you a rough estimate on when
"
everything is going to be done.
"Pleased with the work, Mary Ellen was great, got work done right away and saved us time and
"
money. Good follow up, would certainly recommend them again.
"Thank you so much for your quick response and assistance with our roof problem... we let the insurance agency know that they referred us to the right guy, and we would highly recommend you to everyone.
"
"
Walt and his crew did an unbelievable job! They were very professional and pleasant to deal with. Thanks for your quick response."
"The overall service provided was excellent. The technician assigned to our case, Walter Gully, was outstanding... Walter represents your company in a professional and knowledgeable manner. We thank your company and Walter for the service provided.
"
"
All of your work men were wonderful! There were polite, helpful, kind, and fun. It has been a pleasure to do business with your company. Thank you so much."
"
Thank you so much for the wonderful service. Every worker you sent to our house was top quality. Each and every man did his job to the fullest. I will highly recommend your company to anyone.
"