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How to Keep Home Safe from Hurricane Season

Posted on: 03/10/2023

Hurricane season can be a stressful time for homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to hurricanes. It's important to take steps to prepare your home and keep it safe during the hurricane season. Here are some tips on how to keep your home safe from hurricane season:

1. Secure Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are the most vulnerable parts of your home during a hurricane. It's important to secure them properly to prevent them from breaking and allowing wind and rain to enter your home. Installing impact windows and doors is the best option, but if that's not feasible, you can use storm shutters or plywood to cover your windows and doors.

2. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs around your home can become dangerous during a hurricane. Dead branches or overgrown trees can break and cause damage to your home. It's essential to trim trees and shrubs around your home before the hurricane season to prevent any potential damage.

3. Reinforce the Roof

The roof of your home is also vulnerable during a hurricane. If your roof is old or damaged, it's important to reinforce it before the hurricane season. You can use hurricane straps or clips to secure your roof to the frame of your home.

4. Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts play a vital role in directing rainwater away from your home. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to accumulate around your home, leading to water damage. It's essential to clear your gutters and downspouts before the hurricane season to ensure proper drainage.

5. Create an Emergency Plan

Having an emergency plan in place can make all the difference during a hurricane. Your plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a checklist of items to take with you in case of an evacuation. Make sure your family is aware of the plan and that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

6. Stock Up on Supplies

Stocking up on supplies is crucial during a hurricane. It's essential to have enough food, water, and other necessities to last several days in case of a power outage or other emergency. You should also have a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and a battery-operated radio on hand.

7. Check Insurance Coverage

Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date and that you have adequate coverage in case of hurricane damage. Review your policy to understand what is covered and what is not. It's also a good idea to take pictures of your home before the hurricane season as proof of its pre-damage condition.

8. Turn Off Utilities

Before a hurricane hits, turn off your utilities, including water, gas, and electricity. This can prevent damage to your home and avoid potential fire hazards.

9. Secure Outdoor Items

Outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and toys can become dangerous projectiles during a hurricane. It's important to secure them or move them indoors before the hurricane season.

10. Stay Informed

Stay informed about the weather conditions and any warnings or alerts issued by local authorities. It's important to keep up-to-date on the latest information to ensure the safety of you and your family.

Conclusion

Preparing your home for the hurricane season is essential for keeping it safe during severe weather conditions. Securing windows and doors, trimming trees and shrubs, reinforcing the roof, clearing gutters and downspouts, creating an emergency plan, stocking up on supplies, checking insurance coverage, turning off utilities, securing outdoor items, and staying informed are all crucial steps to take to ensure your home and family are safe during the hurricane season.