New Year, Stronger Home: Disaster-Preparedness Resolutions for Las Vegas & Clark County Homeowners
As the calendar turns, many homeowners across Las Vegas and Clark County set goals to improve their finances, health, or homes. One of the most impactful—and often overlooked—resolutions is preparing your property for unexpected disasters. In Southern Nevada, fires and flash flooding pose serious and growing risks to residential neighborhoods.
From intense desert storms that overwhelm drainage systems to wildfires fueled by drought, wind, and extreme heat, local conditions can turn a small issue into major damage fast. At ServiceMaster EMT, we help Las Vegas–area homeowners recover from fire, smoke, water, and storm damage every day. Based on real-world experience across Clark County, here are practical New Year’s resolutions that can help safeguard your home, your family, and your investment.
Resolution #1: Know the Risks Unique to Clark County
Disaster preparedness begins with understanding what threatens your home locally. While Las Vegas is known for its dry climate, heavy rainfall events can cause sudden flooding, while extreme heat and wind increase fire danger.
Common fire risks include:
- Brush fires spreading rapidly due to wind
- Structure fires during peak summer heat
- Electrical fires from overloaded systems
Common flood risks include:
- Flash flooding from monsoon storms
- Poor drainage around foundations
- Water intrusion from aging plumbing or slab leaks
New Year Action Step:
Review your neighborhood’s flood history and surrounding terrain, and identify weak points such as low-lying areas, older pipes, or exterior drainage issues.
Resolution #2: Build a Clear Emergency Plan for Your Household
In an emergency, confusion costs time. A well-thought-out plan helps ensure everyone knows what to do when seconds matter.
Your plan should cover:
- Primary and alternate evacuation routes
- A family meeting place inside and outside the neighborhood
- Emergency contacts, including restoration professionals
- Plans for pets and vulnerable family members
New Year Action Step:
Write the plan down, review it with your household, and store copies digitally and in a go-bag.
Resolution #3: Make Your Home More Fire-Resistant
With wildfire seasons growing longer in Nevada, fire-hardening your home is one of the smartest preventative steps you can take.
Fire-smart improvements include:
- Removing dry brush and debris near the home
- Maintaining clear space around fences and sheds
- Using gravel instead of bark mulch near structures
- Keeping roofs, vents, and gutters clear
New Year Action Step:
Schedule seasonal yard maintenance and exterior inspections before peak fire season.
Resolution #4: Prevent Water Damage Before It Starts
Water losses are among the most frequent and costly claims in Clark County—and many begin with small, unnoticed issues.
Key prevention steps:
- Inspect and maintain water heaters and supply lines
- Ensure downspouts direct water away from foundations
- Seal cracks in foundations and exterior walls
- Know the location of your main water shutoff valve
New Year Action Step:
Conduct a full plumbing and exterior water-flow inspection before storm season.
Resolution #5: Create a Detailed Home Inventory
After a fire or flood, documenting losses is critical for insurance claims. Without proof, reimbursements can be delayed or reduced.
Include:
- Photos and videos of every room
- Serial numbers for appliances and electronics
- Records of upgrades, remodels, and valuables
New Year Action Step:
Store your inventory securely online and update it annually.
Resolution #6: Revisit Your Insurance Coverage
Many Las Vegas homeowners assume their policy covers every scenario—until a claim reveals coverage gaps.
Areas to review:
- Limits for smoke and odor damage
- Water damage exclusions
- Temporary housing (ALE) coverage
New Year Action Step:
Meet with your insurance agent to confirm your policy aligns with Southern Nevada risks.
Resolution #7: Upgrade Detection & Safety Technology
Early warning systems dramatically reduce damage and improve safety.
Must-have devices include:
- Smoke alarms on every level of the home
- Carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms
- Smart water-leak sensors near appliances
- Accessible fire extinguishers
New Year Action Step:
Test all devices, replace batteries, and upgrade outdated equipment.
Resolution #8: Prepare for Power Outages & Follow-Up Damage
Disasters often trigger secondary problems—damage that occurs after the initial event due to delays or power loss.
Examples include:
- Spoiled food during outages
- Mold growth from standing water
- Burst pipes caused by system failures
New Year Action Step:
Keep backup lighting, chargers, and emergency supplies readily available.
Resolution #9: Choose a Restoration Partner Before You Need One
During an emergency, every minute counts. Having a trusted restoration provider already selected can significantly reduce damage and stress.
Why it matters:
- Faster mitigation limits long-term damage
- Proper documentation supports insurance claims
- Professional drying and cleaning prevents mold and odors
New Year Action Step:
Save ServiceMaster EMT – Clark County / Las Vegas in your phone now, before an emergency happens.
Resolution #10: Make Preparedness an Annual Habit
Homes change. Families change. Risks evolve. Disaster preparedness should be reviewed regularly.
Annual checklist:
- Update emergency plans
- Inspect plumbing, roofing, and landscaping
- Refresh inventories and insurance coverage
- Schedule professional inspections when needed
New Year Action Step:
Set a yearly reminder to revisit your preparedness plan.
Start the Year Ready, Not Reactive
Fires and floods don’t wait for the “right time.” But with the right preparation, their impact doesn’t have to be devastating. By committing to disaster-readiness as a New Year’s resolution, Las Vegas and Clark County homeowners can protect what matters most.
If your home experiences fire, smoke, water, or storm damage, ServiceMaster EMT is available 24/7 with fast response and expert care—helping you recover quickly and confidently.
Prepare now—so you’re protected when it matters most.
