How to Prepare Your Home for Major Storms

If you are in an area prone to tornadoes, hurricanes or other major storms there are steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your home. Some of these preparations need to be done in advance so the sooner you start the better off you can be. You should also consider that while you may not think you are in a storm prone area, parts of the Mid-West were badly damaged by an in-land hurricane in the fall of 2008. No one expected that.

Protection for windows:

There are many options for protecting your windows during hurricanes. If you have enough advanced notice, attaching plywood to the outside of your windows is a low cost and simple step. Hurricane shutters are also made for this purpose. They are more expensive in cost but are easier to shutter closed.

If you are unable to take either of these steps, simply covering your windows on the inside with thick blankets will help to protect you from flying glass. This step will also work for tornado preparation. The most important issue is to stay away from windows during any type of these storms.

Outdoor areas:

In both tornadoes and hurricanes all outdoor items are at risk. You are also at risk of your outdoor items coming indoors. Try to have a garage or solid storage shed for any and all outdoor items. Storage sheds can be anchored to help keep them stable. Larger items like picnic tables can also be anchored. Proper maintenance of outdoor furniture is also a good idea. Loose boards on a picnic table can become airborne.

Keep any awnings or patio covers well maintained. Check these yearly to be sure no screws or bolts have come loose. This may not guarantee their stability but can help prevent them from being ripped from your home and causing damage to your home and where ever else they may land.

Inside your home:

In preparing for a storm you should consider unplugging most appliances and electronics. This is especially important during tornadoes when electrical surges or lightning strikes can occur. Standard surge protectors may not give you enough protection during major events. Be sure that your home has a properly grounded electrical panel as this will give you additional protection.

Have an area inside your home that is safe for seeking shelter. It is a good idea to have emergency supplies stored as well. If you can afford a generator they can come in quite handy during power failures. If you are ordered to evacuate do so. Evacuation orders are made for a reason. If you have time, secure your home before leaving. If you do not have time remember that your safety is more important than the house.