TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Severe weather is approaching the Big Bend and there's one thing you can do at home to help prevent future flooding: Cleaning out the gutters and clearing out any potential debris in your yard!
It’s a simple task that can help you and your neighbors get ahead of a storm, and one of the busiest times of the year for people like Dustin Ledford.
Dustin Ledford works for a gutter cleaning company and says people in the Tallahassee community know not to take the severe weather season lightly.
"This time of year we are getting seventy to eighty calls a week,” Ledford said, “Pretty much with people wanting us to come out to make sure everything is up to date and make sure their system is good to go."
Tallahassee resident Tommy Bowermeister is a veteran when it comes to Big Bend weather.
"We've been through many storms and hurricanes,” said Bowermeister. “We've realized that flooding is definitely increased if you do not keep your gutters clean."
Ledford says preventing gutters from getting clogged is the primary focus of his job.
"We always see that all the downspouts are pretty much clogged up,” Ledford explained. “They always need to be cleared of debris because that's the biggest issue. The downspouts are just not able to let the water out fast enough."
Taking care of your gutters and keeping your land clear of potential debris is a good practice, year round, to stay safe.
"Preparation is paramount,” Bowermeister said. “It's always a good idea to check around your house to make sure, especially during thunderstorms and high winds. It can cause debris and extra furniture to actually fly into your house or someone else's. So, securing that in preparation of a big storm is always important."
Check your home for any gutters that could potentially be clogged and clear your yard from any potential hazards for tomorrow's storm. Not taking care of this simple task can be detrimental to you and your neighbors.
