BEHIND THE SCENE
True, nothing could have prepared Texans for the record-low temperatures we experienced last week. But knowing Texas weather is always extreme, we probably could’ve all done more in advance to offset some of the winter storm damage. That’s why Team Athey & Remarkable Property Management decided to devote this blog post to things to think about that you probably never think about when buying or renting a home—like a weather emergency for example.
At Team Athey, we’re all about being proactive when it comes to protecting real estate. And the recent winter storm was like anything we’ve ever experienced before. It was so out-of-the-ordinary and unexpected, it really made our team stop and think. What are some things we could all do in advance to prepare?
Here are just a few thoughts that will hopefully help us all save lives and property in the future. After all, a little preparation goes a long way when the temperatures plunge to zero and below in a state that rarely sees ice and snow.
Let’s face it, few Texans know how to drive on ice, and fewer still have snow chains. Sure, we know to keep our faucets dripping in a freeze, and we know to use those styrofoam covers on our outdoor faucets, but we don’t really know how to deal with subarctic conditions. Not really. And it showed this past week.
So here’s our thoughts on ways to prepare for extreme weather.
First, we should all make it a point to know where our home's water cut-off valve is located. And, if we don’t have one already, we need to purchase a water key to turn off the water cut-off valve. And we need to do it now, in advance of another winter storm ensuring they are not all sold out at the local hardware store. The key only costs a few dollars. Compare this small pittance to the expensive repairs of water damage and you can easily see why this was #1 on our list.
Other information that came to light in this recent catastrophe that most people would never consider in a million years was the fact that areas near points of critical infrastructure like a hospital (or a nuclear power plant) stand a better chance of not losing power in an outage.
Umm, how does one find out if they are on the same power grid as a hospital or a nuclear power plant. We say ask your power company. Then use this as a selling point if you ever decide to list your home. Or vice versa, ask this question before buying or renting.
Which takes us to another interesting observation. Some homes come with backup generators, especially homes in the country. If yours doesn’t, you might consider buying a generator in advance or building your new home with one in it.
It would also be handy if you make up a list of emergency phone numbers and put it in a prominent place in your home. We’re not just talking about police and fire departments, you should also include plumbers, electricians, and contractors. Consider also putting web addresses so you can get through to these vital helpers if the phone lines are jammed with calls.
Don’t stop with your home. Make certain you keep blankets, water, and ice scrapers in your car, truck or SUV. Also make certain you have a car phone charger in case the power goes out in your house for an extended time. Which brings us to another point. If you decide to sit in your auto and warm up for a while, please, please, please remember to do it in an open area and not a garage. Carbon monoxide is a very real danger in an enclosed space.
And last, but not least, stock up on non-perishable food. Or, at least find out if Walmart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats deliver to your area and establish accounts in advance. You don’t want your stomach growling while you’re out searching for the water cut-off valve.
I’m Suzanne Athey, the founder of Team Athey & Remarkable Property Management. I hope you found this blog post helpful. If you’d like to know more about the unique way Team Athey does business, call me at 469-916-1222 or email me at suzanne@teamathey.com.
I’d love to visit with you and answer all of your questions.
