By Property Pros of Muncie | East Central Indiana’s Award-Winning Remodeling Contractor

Storm season in East Central Indiana is no joke. From powerful thunderstorms and high winds to the occasional tornado warning, Muncie and the surrounding areas see their fair share of severe weather each year. While we can’t control when storms roll through Delaware County, we can control how prepared we are when they arrive. Taking a few minutes now to prepare your home and family can make all the difference when the skies turn dark and the wind picks up.

Here’s a simple three-step storm preparedness plan that every household should follow — because preparation now prevents panic later.

Step 1: Build an Emergency Kit

When severe weather strikes, you may lose power, water, or the ability to leave your home safely. An emergency kit ensures your family has the essentials to stay safe and comfortable until conditions improve or help arrives. Store your kit in an easily accessible location that every family member knows about.

Your emergency kit should include:

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for a minimum of three days. Don’t forget water for pets.
• Non-perishable food: Canned goods, granola bars, crackers, peanut butter, and other items that don’t require refrigeration or cooking.
• Flashlight and extra batteries: Test them regularly to make sure they work when you need them.
• Candles and lighter or matches: A backup light source for extended outages.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio: Essential for receiving emergency updates if cell service or internet goes down.
• Phone charger and backup battery pack: Keep these charged and ready to go.
• Copies of important papers: Insurance policies, identification, medical records, and emergency contacts stored in a waterproof container.
• Blankets and warm clothing: Power outages can mean no heat, even in warmer months when evening temperatures drop.

Having supplies is important, but knowing what to do with them — and where to go — is equally critical. A family emergency plan ensures everyone knows their role and where to meet if you get separated.

Your plan should address:

• Evacuation destinations: Decide in advance where you’ll go if you need to leave your home. This could be a relative’s house, a friend’s place, or a community shelter. Know multiple routes in case roads are blocked.
• Family contact plan: Make sure your kids know how to reach you and other trusted adults. Designate an out-of-area contact person who can serve as a central point of communication if local lines are jammed.
• Insurance coverage review: Now — before a storm hits — is the time to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. Understand what’s covered, what your deductible is, and how to file a claim quickly if needed.
• Pet evacuation plan: Pets are family, too. Know which shelters accept animals, have carriers ready, and keep pet food and medications in your emergency kit.

During storm season, information is your best defense. Knowing when severe weather is approaching gives you time to act — whether that means taking shelter, securing outdoor items, or evacuating.

Stay connected through:

• Local social media accounts: Follow reputable sources like the National Weather Service Indianapolis, local news stations, and Delaware County Emergency Management for real-time updates.
• Local radio stations: When the power goes out or the internet fails, local radio remains one of the most reliable ways to receive emergency information.
• The American Red Cross Emergency App: This free app provides weather alerts, shelter locations, and safety tips. Download it before you need it.

After the Storm: Assessing and Repairing Damage

Even with the best preparation, storms can still cause damage to your home. High winds can tear off shingles, bend gutters, and crack siding. Hail can leave dents and punctures that compromise your roof’s integrity. After any significant storm, take time to inspect your property for visible damage — but remember, some of the worst damage isn’t visible from the ground.

If you notice missing shingles, debris in your yard, damaged gutters, or new leaks inside your home, it’s time to call in the professionals. Addressing storm damage quickly prevents small problems from becoming major repairs.

Property Pros Is Here to Help

When storms cause roof, gutter, or siding damage to your Muncie-area home, Property Pros is ready to help. As East Central Indiana’s award-winning full-service contractor, we provide thorough inspections, insurance-ready estimates, and expert repairs or full replacements. Our in-house team delivers the quality craftsmanship and personal attention you deserve during a stressful time.

Call us today at 765.400.PROS (7767) or visit propertyprosmuncie.com to schedule your post-storm inspection. Preparation prevents panic — and when the storm has passed, we’re here to help you recover.

Property Pros Muncie – Licensed • Insured • Local

2560 W Kilgore Ave, Muncie, IN 47304