Hurricane Preparation: Home Safety Measures

Home Safety Measures for Hurricane Preparation

Secure Outdoor Items

• Bring in or tie down outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong winds, such as:
  • Patio furniture
  • Trash cans
  • Potted plants
  • Bird baths
  • Outdoor decorations

Protect Windows and Doors

• Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows
• Cover windows with plywood or shutters to prevent damage from wind-borne debris
• Secure doors with deadbolts and consider installing a reinforced door

Reinforce Roof and Walls

• Ensure roof is securely fastened to walls
• Install storm straps or clips to reinforce roof-to-wall connections
• Consider installing a reinforced roof or hurricane straps

Prepare for Power Outages

• Install a whole-house surge protector
• Consider purchasing a portable generator or installing a permanent generator
• Have a supply of flashlights, batteries, and candles

Flood Protection

• Install a sump pump and backup power source
• Seal walls and doors to prevent water entry
• Elevate electrical outlets and switches to prevent water damage

Miscellaneous

• Trim trees and shrubs to reduce branches that could cause damage
• Clear drains and gutters to ensure proper water flow
• Consider installing a hurricane-resistant garage door

Home Safety Measures for Hurricane Preparation

Secure Outdoor Items

• Patio furniture, trash cans, potted plants, bird baths, and outdoor decorations can become projectiles in strong winds and should be brought in or tied down.

Protect Windows and Doors

• Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to prevent damage from wind-borne debris.
• Cover windows with plywood or shutters to prevent damage.
• Secure doors with deadbolts and consider installing a reinforced door.

Reinforce Roof and Walls

• Ensure the roof is securely fastened to walls.
• Install storm straps or clips to reinforce roof-to-wall connections.
• Consider installing a reinforced roof or hurricane straps.

Prepare for Power Outages

• Install a whole-house surge protector to protect against power surges.
• Consider purchasing a portable generator or installing a permanent generator.
• Have a supply of flashlights, batteries, and candles.

Flood Protection

• Install a sump pump and backup power source to prevent water damage.
• Seal walls and doors to prevent water entry.
• Elevate electrical outlets and switches to prevent water damage.

Miscellaneous

• Trim trees and shrubs to reduce branches that could cause damage.
• Clear drains and gutters to ensure proper water flow.
• Consider installing a hurricane-resistant garage door.