Hurricane Safety Tips for Homes and Businesses in Hendersonville and all Middle Tennessee

Hurricanes can bring devastating impacts, even to inland areas like Hendersonville, TN. While we may not experience the full force of coastal storms, the remnants can still cause significant damage through heavy rainfall, flooding, and tornadoes. Being prepared is crucial for both residents and businesses in Middle Tennessee.​

Though Hendersonville isn’t on the coast, hurricanes can still affect our region. Tropical storms and hurricanes often move inland, bringing heavy rains and the potential for tornadoes. In 2020, remnants of Hurricane Delta caused widespread flooding in parts of Tennessee. Understanding that hurricanes can impact our area is the first step in preparation.​ Check out these preparation tips on how to keep yourself and your family safe during hurricanes

Hurricane Emergency Tips for Homes in Hendersonville, TN

1. Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates. Sign up for emergency alerts from Sumner County Emergency Management.​ Learn your area’s flooding risk and community hurricane evacuation routes. Know the geographical location you live in.

2. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.​

3. Develop a Family Emergency Plan: Create a family evacuation plan. Determine a meeting place for your family and routes to get there. Plan how to get in touch with your family if separated. Plan where you’ll go if you must evacuate, such as a shelter. Ensure all family members know evacuation routes and have a communication plan.​

4. Secure Your Property: If you don’t have flood insurance, get a policy now. Regular homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage. Also, trim trees, secure outdoor items, and consider installing storm shutters.​ Find out whether your property is flood-prone due to its elevation level.

5. Protect Important Documents: Back up the data on your electronic devices to ensure it’s secure if your computer or other devices are damaged during the hurricane. Store them in waterproof containers or digitally.​

What Must Be Included in Your Emergency Kit During Hurricanes

FEMA recommends that you gather supplies, including:

• Water for drinking and sanitation to last at least three days;
• Non-perishable food for at least three days
• Hand crank or battery-powered radio (tuned in to NOAA Weather Radio), as well as spare batteries
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to call for help
• Dust mask, plastic sheeting, and duct tape for shelter-making
• Moist towelettes and garbage bags for sanitation
• Pliers or wrench to turn off utilities
• Can opener
• Local maps
• Cell phone with an extra charger

Hurricane Safety Tips for Businesses

Businesses in Hendersonville should also take proactive steps:​

• Review Emergency Plans: Ensure all employees are familiar with evacuation routes and procedures.​
• Backup Data: Regularly backup important business data and store it securely.​
• Secure Equipment: Elevate equipment off the floor and protect it from potential flooding.​
• Communicate with Employees: Maintain updated contact information and establish a communication plan.​

Hurricane Safety Tips — During

Here are essential tips to protect yourself and your family members during a hurricane:

• Evacuate Immediately If Ordered: Follow official evacuation orders without delay. Take your emergency disaster kit, stick to posted routes, and avoid shortcuts.
• Find Safe Shelter: If you’re outdoors or in a mobile home, get indoors or to a designated shelter. If your home is on low ground, move to higher ground.
• Stay Safe Indoors: Keep away from windows, glass doors, and skylights. Shelter in an interior room or bathroom on the lower level and stay tuned to official updates.
• Prevent Electrical and Fire Hazards: Avoid using appliances during the storm. Turn off power at the main breaker if flooding is likely. Never use gasoline or charcoal devices indoors due to carbon monoxide risk.
• Stay Cautious During and After the Storm: Don’t be fooled by the eye of the storm—it can resume suddenly. If flooding traps you, head to the highest level, but avoid sealed attics. Stay indoors until officials say it’s safe.

Hurricane Safety Tips — After

Here’s how to stay safe after a tropical storm has passed:

• Follow Official Guidance: Listen to local authorities for updates, emergency instructions, and safety notices.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Never walk or drive through flooded areas—just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep away a car. Floodwaters may hide debris, contamination, or live power lines.
• Inspect Safely: Only enter damaged buildings after professionals have cleared the electrical, gas, and plumbing systems. Wear protective gear like gloves, boots, masks, and safety glasses.
• Document and Report Damage: Take photos of property damage for insurance claims. Avoid touching wet electrical devices, especially when standing in water.
• Protect Your Health: Discard any food exposed to floodwaters or left unrefrigerated. If you’re unsure whether tap water is safe, don’t drink it..

Finally, make sure to download a copy of this handy Emergency Preparedness Document and use it to gather and record important numbers, such as your property or medical insurance provider, A/C repair service, etc.

Post-Storm Recovery: For Water Damage Restoration and Flood Cleanup, Contact the PuroClean of Hendersonville at (615) 348-7200

Water damage to your property can still occur, even if you have followed proper tips on preparing for hurricanes. When disaster strikes, everything that gets wet on your property must be dried, cleaned, and disinfected immediately. 

For water removal services and mold cleaning services, contact PuroClean immediately. Our team will arrive at your location promptly to prevent further water damage and mold growth. PuroClean of Hendersonville offers professional water damage restoration and flood cleanup services. Our team is equipped to handle:​

• Water Extraction: Removing standing water quickly to prevent further damage.​
• Drying and Dehumidification: Ensuring all areas are thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth.​
• Mold Remediation: Addressing any mold issues that arise due to moisture.​
• Structural Repairs: Restoring your property to its pre-damage condition.​

Trust PuroClean of Hendersonville to help you recover swiftly and safely.​

FAQs

Q: How can I stay updated during a hurricane?
A: Monitor local news, and weather apps, and sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities.​

Q: What should I include in my emergency kit?
A: Essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.​

Q: How do I protect my business from hurricane damage?
A: Secure equipment, backup data, review emergency plans, and maintain clear communication with employees.​

Q: What steps should I take after experiencing water damage?
A: Contact professionals like PuroClean of Hendersonville for immediate water extraction and restoration services.​

For expert assistance in water damage restoration and flood cleanup, contact PuroClean of Hendersonville at (615) 348-7200. We’re here to help you navigate the aftermath of storms and ensure your property is restored promptly and professionally.​

PuroClean’s Emergency Management Plan

Emergency Management Plans(EMPs) are also offered through PuroClean to help commercial business owners prepare for hurricane / tropical storm season. PuroClean’s EMP can help business owners effectively manage unexpected events and minimize the impact on businesses, properties, and customers.