Those who live in hurricane prone areas should always stay prepared for extreme weather scenarios that could result in damage to property and life. Hurricanes indeed represent one of the most extreme forms of weather that needs advance preparation and planning. These weather events bring in high winds, rain, flooding, debris, and cyclones.
If you are looking to hurricane proof your home, there are several areas which will demand your attention. For instance, all entry points to your home should be sealed off properly to avoid flooding or debris from entering in. We’ve put together a checklist for homeowners to help you ensure that you are able to hurricane proof your home.
Make Plans to Evacuate and Stay Connected
If you receive a warning to evacuate, ensure that you are in a position to quickly move out of the house with essentials. You must plan in advance about where to go and how you will get there. Some vehicles like trailer homes and RVs may not be safe to drive in high winds, so consider that when planning an evacuation route.
Protect Your Home
Ensure to pick up any outdoor items like furniture and trash cans that can easily be blown away by winds. If there are items that are unsafe to store in your homes like gas grills and propane tanks, anchor them tightly in a safe location. Make sure that you have an emergency power supply, heating system, and an electric panel if in case the power goes out.
Install Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors
Secure every entry point to your house with hurricane rated impact windows and doors. If you have a garage, ensure that you have an impact-resistant door installed instead of a standard door. This is a must as standard doors and windows offer very little protection in hurricane scenarios. Have a contractor install impact-resistant doors and windows in your house for protection against rain, debris, and high winds.
Gather Emergency Supplies
Gather essentials like food, water, medicine, first-aid kit, and batteries to create an emergency Go-kit. This kit should have at least three days of supplies in it that you can carry with yourself. If someone in your family needs constant medical attention, ensure that you are carrying enough medication and supplies to last a month. Don’t forget to include batteries and chargers for your devices. You should keep any medical and financial documents safe and easily accessible.
Learn Emergency Skills
If you live in hurricane prone areas, learning first-aid and CPR can go a long way to protect you and your loved ones. Trim any overgrown branches around your house that could clash with power lines or your house. Learn basic communication skills like 2-way radios in case the power goes out or the cellular network goes down.
Take Care of Yourself and Loved Ones
Having stress and anxiety during hurricanes is normal, however, we need to find a way to manage them. Ensure that you and your loved ones are eating healthy and getting plenty of sleep to help deal with stress. You can also contact the authorities if you are having a difficult time dealing with the situation.
Hurricane season is a stress-including time and the best way to stay safe is by planning in advance. While you may be able to take care of an emergency power supply and other essentials like food and water, hurricane-proofing your home in every regard might need some additional help. If you are looking to install impact-resistant doors and windows to protect your house against high winds and rain, Panorama Windows & Doors can help you. To learn more about our services or to get your quote, contact our team today!