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Hurricane Prevention Steps to Protect Your Home

Hurricane Prevention Steps to Protect Your Home

From the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas:

The 2012 hurricane season produced nineteen named storms, including 10 hurricanes and two major hurricanes – Sandy and Michael, and this year, forecasters  anticipate between thirteen and twenty named storms,  and at least seven of those stand a good chance of becoming hurricanes.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its initial outlook for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season as “active” and “above normal”; BBB urges consumers to pay attention to weather alerts, take necessary safety precautions and plan ahead to avoid potential scams in the wake of storm 

Flood insurance: Is it for you?

Flood insurance: Is it for you?

From the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas:

VIDEO: Tornado survivor finds dog during interview

VIDEO: Tornado survivor finds dog during interview

Amidst the devastation of her home after the Moore tornado, an Oklahoma woman was speaking with a reporter when she got a wonderful answer to prayer.

 

Tips for helping Oklahoma tornado victims

Tips for helping Oklahoma tornado victims

From The Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas:

The news of yesterday's EF5 tornado that swept through the town of Moore, Oklahoma is gut-wrenching. Two schools filled with teachers and children, entire neighborhoods and businesses will never be the same.


"When tragedy strikes, everyone wants to help." said Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. “As we reach out, please keep in mind that organizations and web sites allegedly created to help victims and relief efforts will spring up overnight, so it’s very important to do your research to make sure your efforts go where you intend and that they get there quickly.”


BBB offers the following advice to guide those want to help:

Video: See how fast wildfire spreads - Texas Parks & Wildlife

Video: See how fast wildfire spreads - Texas Parks & Wildlife

Check out this video that shows just how quickly a small fire can get out of control, especially on a windy day.

Summer will arrive soon: Tips for choosing a great A/C contractor

Summer will arrive soon: Tips for choosing a great A/C contractor

From the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas:

It’s technically still winter, so why worry about air conditioning? The best way to deal with air conditioning issues is to prevent them from occurring. With proper maintenance and preventive care for your A/C unit, you may be able to avoid a broken system this summer. BBB recommends planning ahead to make sure that your air conditioner is working properly when the temperatures are high.

“Residential heating and cooling units are expected to last 15 to 20 years”, said Mechele Agbayani Mills. “So choosing a good HVAC tech is vital to your home’s comfort for years to come”.

It's time to winterize!

It's time to winterize!

Cooler temperatures signal the need to winterize your home and vehicles to save energy and prepare for cold weather emergencies. BBB reminds consumers of a few items that should really be taken care of before the weather gets too cold and brutal to keep your family warm and safe this winter.


“Getting your heating system in tip-top shape can prevent breakdowns and save money in the long run. You may need to service cars or assemble a cold weather kit”, said Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. “At least once a year, it makes sense to check your furnace, put ice scrapers in your car and make sure your home is winterized.”

An emergency kit should contain bottled water, a first aid kit, battery-operated radio, fresh batteries, candles, matches and non-perishable food.