Be Prepared for Hurricane Florence!
Enough is enough, right? Wrong! Mother Nature has really inundated us with rain this year and it doesn’t look like she is done! In an effort to help you prepare for yet another surge of flooding rains and powerful winds, we have created a list of home preparedness tips for you to review. 

As of today, forecasters are predicting between 10 - 20” of rain in our area. With the ground still saturated from our wet summer, flooding in many local areas is likely.

If you need our team of Landscape Professionals to help you prepare any of these items, please let us know immediately by calling (434) 821-6004 during business hours and we will work to schedule you prior to the storm.  If you need after-hours assistance, call or email Lane Dellinger at (434) 660-3950.
Hurricane Preparedness Tips

  • Make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris and leaves.
  • Make sure gutter downspout lines are clear and that underground piping is connected and secure.
  • Make sure that drains are clear of debris by removing the grates/lids and inspecting and removing debris. Remember that drains that have mulch covering them will not allow water to pass through.
  • Ensure that the exit ends of drain pipes are free and clear of debris.
  • Ensure that pop-up emitters are in place and functioning properly.
  • Ensure any drains in stairwells are free of debris.
  • Check that drain culverts, driveway pipes, and drainage channels are free from debris and are not being blocked.
  • If you have a sump pump, be certain it is operational.
  • Make sure you have a wet vac ready for use should you need it.
  • Purchase a few sand bags from your local building supply store to divert water, if needed.
  • Move any valuables such as important documents, jewelry, and electronics, from low-lying areas.
  • Avoid parking your vehicle in flood-prone areas.
  • Charge your phones, flashlights, and other essential electronic devices you may need while power is out. Consider having a back-up electronics power source on hand.
  • Secure trash cans and exterior home decorations to ensure they don't blow away.
  • Make sure your property insurance is paid and active.
  • Have an escape plan ready if needed.
  • Ensure that your backup power supply (generator) is fully fueled.

Additional Precautions for our Smith Mountain Lake Clients
  • Secure furniture, water toys and other loose items to docks.
  • Turn off electrical breakers to docks in the event that they flood.
  • Secure boats by tying a separate lanyard to a secure dock pylon.
  • Remove gas, oil, and petroleum products from your dock storage rooms and place on higher ground.

We are here for you during this time should you need us! Stay safe and take caution!
Southern Landscape Group
soscapes.com | 434-821-6004 | sales@soscapes.com