Erratic weather events like tornadoes, thunderstorms, and hurricanes pose a real danger to families. It’s wise to prepare your home and create an evacuation plan in case an emergency situation arises.
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Many people mistakenly think that taping their windows will protect against high winds. It doesn’t. Here are some practical steps to help you prepare for severe weather.
Prepare Your Windows
Under extreme weather, flying debris can shatter windows. To minimize this risk, bring any outdoor furniture indoors, trim trees as needed, and clear your yard of loose branches or decorations that could become airborne and cause injury.
Check and reseal window seals periodically to prevent water infiltration during storms, which could otherwise cause costly damage.
Consider installing impact-rated windows, which provide increased protection from wind and debris. This is particularly important if your area experiences frequent hurricanes or severe weather events.
When replacing your windows, consider factors such as energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics. Vinyl windows that stand the test of time are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a balance of performance and affordability.
To find the best window options for your home and budget, explore the full list of window prices available in your area. By comparing different brands, styles, and features, you can select the windows that best meet your needs and preferences.
Check Your Storm Shutters
Severe weather can strike at any moment and is beyond anyone’s control. Yet taking steps to prepare your home and reduce damage from severe storms can greatly decrease their effects on both you and your family.
Before any major storm hits, test both permanent and temporary shutters to make sure they close and lock securely. If installing shutters during a Hurricane Watch or Warning, start early so that they’re completed before winds really pick up.
Trim any branches or shrubs that could fall on your house, garage, or car. Clear loose and clogged gutters to reduce roof damage risk. Bring indoor lawn furniture, decorations, and anything else that might get blown away during a storm. Armor Screen or Panels can serve as an effective alternative solution for protecting windows against debris and high winds while fitting easily into any window opening.
Trim Your Trees
No tree can completely avoid storm damage, but being proactive with preventative maintenance can reduce its effects. Check for structural issues like broken branches or limbs; thin the canopy (but not too drastically); lighten heavy side branches; and eliminate diseased or dead limbs.
Apply mulch around the root zone to retain moisture and nutrients as well as prevent compaction and soil erosion.
If your lawn furniture, toys, grills, flowerpots, or any other outdoor items could become projectiles during high winds, relocate them to a protected space such as your garage or shed. Alternatively, secure or tie down these objects to reduce damage and injuries. Regular pruning and fertilizing promote healthier structures which are more weather resistant, particularly important when caring for young trees.
Make a Plan
As severe weather approaches, one of the most important steps you can take is making a plan with your family. Discuss where you will go during a storm and who has what responsibilities in case of evacuation. Create a list of your possessions and store it securely offsite in a safe deposit box. This will help with insurance claim filing should something go wrong.
During severe storms, listen to local radio or TV stations for updates and advisories. In case of a tornado warning, move immediately to the safest part of your home or building away from windows. For wind advisories, seek shelter under sturdy furniture such as tables to protect yourself from debris and flying objects.
Safe rooms should contain items you may need if forced to stay indoors for an extended period, such as flashlights with batteries and canned non-perishable food. In areas prone to flooding, move valuables higher up within your home or elevate them using concrete blocks or boards to minimize water damage.
