Preparation is everything when a hurricane is on the horizon. We’ll cover essential hurricane preparation tips, including early actions and last-minute measures. Taking the proper precautions can reduce your risk of water damage, prevent costly repairs, and keep you safe during the storm.
Preventing Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most significant risks during a hurricane. Water can seep in through windows, doors, and even foundation cracks, causing costly damage and potential mold growth. Fortunately, homeowners can take several simple steps to minimize the risk of water damage during a storm.
Planning Ahead
- Install garage door braces for extra support during high winds.
- A sump pump can help keep water out of your basement or crawl space.
- Trim trees to prevent dangerous debris or fallen trees.
- Seal leaks in windows and doors to prevent water intrusion.
Last-Minute Tips
- Close all windows and doors securely. Deploy storm shutters or board up windows with plywood.
- Ensure gutters are clear of debris so water can flow away from your home.
- Place rags or towels near potential leak areas, like windowsills.
- Use sandbags to block water entry points.
- Store important items and valuables on your home’s second story.
Early Hurricane Preparation
Make sure you have an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, and medications. Stock up on batteries and flashlights and refill your first aid kit. Secure important documents like insurance policies, identification, and medical records in waterproof containers. Review your insurance policies and document valuables by taking photos for any potential claims.
Remember, your pets will weather the storm, too. During a hurricane, taking pets outside for bathroom breaks is dangerous due to heavy rain, flooding, and high winds. Set up a designated indoor bathroom area for your pets to keep them safe and prevent water from entering your home.
Pack a kit with pet essentials like leashes, collars, bowls, and comfort items. Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up-to-date, and keep a recent photo in case they get lost. If you need to evacuate, check that your destination is pet-friendly, and don’t leave pets behind.
Last-Minute Preparations
As a hurricane approaches, your focus should be on protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your home from immediate dangers.
- Clear your yard: Remove outdoor furniture, toys, and anything else that could become a projectile in high winds.
- Fill your bathtubs: If a water shortage is possible, filling bathtubs and sinks can ensure you have access to extra clean water for washing or flushing toilets.
- Charge your devices: Make sure phones, power banks, and other necessary devices are fully charged in case of extended power outages.
- Check weather updates: Stay informed by listening to the latest weather reports and local evacuation orders.
Preparing for a hurricane is essential to protecting your home and ensuring your safety. Remember that water damage is one of the most common issues during hurricanes, so don’t overlook this aspect of preparation. By taking the right steps now, you’ll be better equipped to weather the storm and recover quickly in the aftermath.
