Ohio storm response

Before

• •Wrap exposed pipes; let faucets drip in unheated spaces
• •Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets
• •Set thermostat no lower than 55°F even when away
• •Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls

During

• •If a pipe freezes, leave faucet open; thaw with warm rags or a hairdryer — never an open flame
• •If you smell gas, evacuate and call Columbia Gas 1-800-344-4077

After

• •Walk the line — small leaks become big ones in 24 hours
• •Test water-heater pressure-relief valve
• •Schedule a furnace tune-up if temps dropped >50°F overnight

Before

• •Test snowblower fuel + battery
• •Pre-treat driveway and steps
• •Stock 72-hour food + medication

During

• •Avoid roof shoveling on a pitched roof
• •Keep furnace exhaust + intake clear of snow

After

• •Check for ice dams in valleys + eaves
• •Get gutters cleared before melt cycle

Before

• •Charge devices
• •Pull car out of garage in case opener fails

During

• •Stay off roads if ice >0.25"
• •Watch for falling tree limbs

After

• •Get roof inspection after major ice events
• •Check water-heater venting

Before

• •Trim weak limbs over the house
• •Test sump-pump battery backup
• •Move patio furniture inside

During

• •Shelter on lowest interior room; avoid windows
• •Avoid running water (lightning risk)

After

• •Photograph damage BEFORE clearing
• •Call your insurance hotline before signing any contractor

Before

• •Identify safe interior room
• •Charge phones
• •Pack 72-hour go-bag

During

• •Shelter on lowest floor, interior, no windows
• •Cover head

After

• •Watch for gas leaks before re-entering
• •Document everything for insurance

Before

• •Move valuables off basement floor
• •Test sump pump + battery backup

During

• •Never drive through standing water
• •Avoid basement until power is off

After

• •Pump water out within 24 hours to prevent mold
• •Document for NFIP claim

Before

• •Sandbag low entries
• •Move vehicles to high ground
• •Confirm NFIP coverage

During

• •Monitor county emergency channel
• •Evacuate if ordered

After

• •Wait for clearance before re-entering
• •Restoration pros: IICRC S500 cert preferred

Before

• •Secure outdoor furniture
• •Check roof flashing

During

• •Stay inside; avoid windows on windward side

After

• •Photograph BEFORE removing debris
• •Get a roofer to inspect within 72 hours

Before

• •Move cars under cover if possible

During

• •Stay indoors; avoid skylights

After

• •Photograph dents in cars + downspouts (hail size proxy)
• •Call insurance + roofer for inspection