Attention homeowners! Are you ready to weather the storm and protect your beloved abode? As hurricane and storm season approaches, it’s crucial to fortify your home against nature’s wrath.
From high winds to torrential downpours, these formidable forces can wreak havoc on even the sturdiest of structures.
But fear not! We’ve gathered expert tips and tricks that will empower you with the knowledge needed to safeguard your home like a pro.
So roll up your sleeves, grab a pen, and get ready for some invaluable advice on preparing for hurricane and storm season. Let’s ensure that when Mother Nature throws her worst at us, our homes stand strong as a fortress of protection!
Table of Contents
What to Do Before a Hurricane or Storm Hits
Hurricane season is officially here. It’s time to start preparing for what can be a very dangerous event.
It is essential that you keep all your necessary appliances up to code and efficiently working just in case. For example, hurricanes and storms can knock out powerlines which cause people to rely on generators, so calling up professionals that deal with generator maintenance in Baton Rouge, LA, or whichever location you reside in during storm season, is crucial.
Don’t forget to –
Get an Emergency Kit Ready
This should include medications, food, water, flashlights and batteries, first-aid supplies, shelter supplies (such as duct tape and blankets), and money. Make sure all members of your family know where the kit is located.
Protect Your Windows
Cover them with sturdy boards or plywood at least 18 inches long, and screws to hold them in place. If you can’t cover them, keep them closed during a storm – otherwise, wind and rain will easily break through the window glass.
Secure Outdoor Objects
These might include tall shrubs or trees, patio furniture, sheds, or any other large objects that could fall on your house or damage property beyond repair if blown away by wind or waves.
Prepare Your Home For Flooding
Fill any holes in the foundation; patch cracks in the exterior walls; brace windows and doors against strong winds; elevate concrete floors above predicted high water levels; install flashing flood lights outside each entryway; seal openings around vents and pipes that could let water in during a storm; and put sandbags around drainage pumps if necessary.
Disconnect Any Electrical Appliances
If they are not essential during a stormy weather event, you need to unplug them. This includes televisions, computers, air conditioners, etc. They may become damaged if they are turned on during a stormy weather event.
What to Do If You Are In An Evacuation Zone
In the event that you find yourself residing within an evacuation zone when a hurricane is imminent, it is crucial to remain calm and follow a well-prepared plan of action.
First and foremost, prioritize your safety by promptly gathering essential items such as food, water, medications, important documents, cash, and emergency supplies.
Ensure that each family member has the necessary clothing appropriate for inclement weather conditions.
Adhering to local authorities’ instructions and guidelines is imperative; diligently monitor official announcements through reliable sources such as radio or television broadcasts while staying connected with emergency services via phone lines or mobile applications.
Swiftly secure your residence, as detailed above, by covering windows with storm shutters or plywood boards to minimize the potential damage caused by strong winds or flying debris.
If time permits before evacuating, unplug electrical appliances and turn off gas valves in order to mitigate hazards during power outages or flooding incidents.
It is essential to formulate a designated meeting point for all family members outside the evacuation zone should separation occur during transit—a centralized location can greatly aid reunion efforts amidst chaotic circumstances.
Obeying evacuation orders without hesitation demonstrates prudence and responsibility towards personal safety as well as supporting relief efforts undertaken by authorities on behalf of the affected community.
Building a Storm Shelter
If you are unable to evacuate, a storm shelter is the next best thing.
Building a storm shelter to safeguard oneself from the wrath of hurricanes requires meticulous planning and strategic execution.
The foremost consideration is location selection, where an area away from flood-prone zones becomes imperative; thus, identifying high-ground or elevated terrains should be prioritized.
Once the ideal site is determined, excavation commences by carefully digging a hole that will serve as the foundation for the shelter. Reinforcement plays a crucial role in fortifying this structure against hurricane-force winds; hence, utilizing sturdy materials like reinforced concrete walls and steel bars ensures unparalleled strength and durability.
A robust roof system constructed with reinforced steel sheets adds an additional layer of protection against airborne debris propelled by ferocious gusts during storms.
Equipping the storm shelter with proper ventilation systems prevents suffocation while ensuring adequate air circulation within its confined space for extended durations if necessary.
Furthermore, the installation of waterproofing measures such as rubber membranes or water-resistant coatings effectively shields occupants from potential flooding hazards brought forth by torrential rains accompanying hurricanes.
Lastly, furnishing the shelter with essential supplies including non-perishable food items, potable water containers, first aid kits, and flashlights equipped with extra batteries becomes vital to sustain survival until external help arrives post-storm devastation.
Conclusion
It’s officially hurricane season, and with that comes the potential for widespread damage and loss.
Today, we’ve shared expert tips on how to prepare your home for hurricanes and other storm seasons. Hopefully, this has helped you get prepared in case your area is hit.
