How to Safely Prepare Your Home for Hurricane and Storm Season
Hurricane and storm season can bring devastating winds, heavy rain, and flooding, making preparation essential for protecting your home and family. Taking proactive steps before a storm hits can minimize damage and keep you safe. Preparing for hurricane and storm season takes time and effort, but it can make a significant difference in keeping your home and loved ones safe. Below are steps to get you started prepping for storm season:
Create an Emergency Plan
Having a well-thought-out emergency plan in place before the storm season begins is crucial. It ensures that your family knows what to do in an emergency, providing security and preparedness.
Know Your Evacuation Route: Research the best evacuation routes and have a backup plan if roads become impassable.
Establish a Communication Plan: Make sure all family members have emergency contacts saved in their phones and written down in case of power loss.
Prepare a Disaster Kit: Stock up on essentials, including:
Non-perishable food and bottled water (at least three days’ supply)
Flashlights and extra batteries
First-aid supplies
Medications
Store important documents in a waterproof container
2. Strengthen Your Home’s Structure
Your home’s ability to withstand a hurricane depends on its structural integrity.
Reinforce Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood, along with securing doors with heavy-duty deadbolts.
Check Your Roof: Ensure shingles are secure.
Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect walls, windows, and doors for openings where wind or water could enter. Seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
3. Protect Against Flooding
Hurricanes often bring storm surges and heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding.
Elevate Utilities: If possible, raise your HVAC units, electrical panels, and water heaters above flood levels.
Use Sandbags or Flood Barriers: If you’re in a flood-prone area, place sandbags around doors and low-lying areas to help redirect water.
Clean Gutters and Drains: Clear out any debris to prevent water buildup on your roof or around your home.
Install a Sump Pump: A battery-powered sump pump can help remove excess water if you have a basement.
4. Secure Outdoor Areas
Loose items can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds from storms.
Bring in Outdoor Furniture: Secure patio furniture, grills, and outdoor decorations.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Cut back weak branches and remove dead trees that could fall on your home.
Anchor Large Objects: Secure sheds, fences, and other large structures to prevent them from being blown away.
5. Prepare for Power Outages
Hurricanes often cause widespread power failures, so having a backup plan is key. Thunderstorms can also cause power outages.
Invest in a Generator: A portable or whole-house generator can keep essential appliances running. Store fuel safely.
Charge Electronics: Fully charge phones, power banks, and other critical devices before the storm.
Stock Up on Batteries and Flashlights: Candles can pose a fire hazard.
Fill Your Gas Tank: If evacuations are necessary, ensure your car is fueled and ready to go.
For more Hurricane Prep tips visit DOE Prepares for Hurricane Season, and So Can You | Department of Energy.
For more Storm Prep tips visit: Summer Storm Safety: What You Should Know | FEMA.gov
