Tips To Prevent Hurricane Damage

Do you live in a hurricane-prone zone? If yes then, read some guidelines to stay safe and minimize the damage.

Prevent hurricane damage

Use permanent hurricane shutters on all the windows and doors of the house as this is much safer and more effective than taping the glass. You can also protect the outside of windows with shutters or plywood

A research states that most hurricane damage can be attributed to roof failures as they often go first in severe storms. Therefore have hurricane straps installed to more securely attach a structure's roof to its walls and foundation. Although this improvement takes some specialized skills, it's simple and inexpensive to accomplish, even with professional help.

Ensure to get rid of anything in your yard that can become flying debris inside your house or garage long before a hurricane watch has been issued.

Often heavy rains accompany hurricanes therefore make sure the gutters and drains are clean and clear to prevent flooding during the long bouts.

Check whether the yard has weak tree branches that lie within crashing distance of your home. Trim them away before storm uses it to destroy your house. You can also avoid uprooting of larger trees by strategically removing branches to allow high winds to flow through.

Buy flood insurance to protect your belongings.

First things first. Ensure your family emergency plan and kit are up to date.

One of the primary hurricane damage is power outages. Therefore be prepared when the lights go out by buying a generator and enough fuel to run it for several days now. If local stores are sold out, then try buying them online.

Save you important documents. An accurate inventory of your home's contents is a critical first step to getting back on your feet. One of the easy way to do this is to videotape each room of your home, making sure to open every drawer and closet. If possible, keep important records off-site in a safe deposit box, or at least in a fire-proof box.

Before the hurricane knocks at your door, develop an evacuation plan with the help of a local emergency management office or local chapter of the American Red Cross for information about the safest evacuation routes and locations of nearby shelters. Get your own emergency kit ready. Some of the most important things it should include are three-day supply of drinking water and food you don't have to refrigerate or cook, first aid supplies, a portable NOAA weather radio, a flashlight, blankets; baby items, medications, extra house keys and cash.