As hurricane season approaches, homeowners must take proactive steps to safeguard their properties and families. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential hurricane prep strategies, ensuring you're well-prepared for whatever Mother Nature may bring. From securing your home's structure to caring for your loved ones, including pets and seniors, we've got you covered with expert advice and practical tips.
Preparing Your Home
The first line of defense against a hurricane is your home itself. Proper preparation can significantly reduce the risk of damage and help keep your family safe. Below are some crucial steps to fortify your home against hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall.
Plumbing System
When it comes to plumbing preparations, the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing recommend several critical steps:
- Clear Out the Pipes: Test each faucet and toilet to ensure proper water flow. Slow drains or leaks might indicate problems with your sewage or septic system, which can be quickly overwhelmed by floodwater.
- Protect Your Water Supply: Before the storm hits, shut off the main water valve to prevent flooding from contaminating your home's water supply. Ration water by opening the faucet farthest from the main line.
- Fill the Bathtub(s): Use this water for non-sterilized tasks, such as flushing toilets.
Electrical System
Electrical safety is paramount during hurricane prep for homeowners. Mister Sparky offers valuable advice to protect your home's electrical systems:
- Charge Your Electronics: Ensure all devices are fully charged before the storm hits.
- Unplug and Elevate: Disconnect all electronics and move them to higher ground to protect against power fluctuations and potential flooding.
- Turn Off Breakers: This helps avoid power surges when electricity is restored.
- Consider a Generator: Invest in an emergency generator but never operate it inside your home. Many areas have building codes that will outline how far from your home the generator should be, so be sure to do your research.
- Use GFCIs Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are essential in areas where water and electricity may come into contact. GFCIs work as safety devices that protect against electrical shocks from faults in electrical devices.
HVAC System
Protecting your HVAC system is crucial during hurricane season. One Hour Heating and Air Conditioningsuggests the following measures:
- Cover Your Outdoor Unit: Use a waterproof tarp or specialty hurricane cover to protect against heavy rain.
- Remove Window AC Units: If possible, bring window units inside to prevent damage.
- Invest in a Security Cage: These sturdy enclosures can protect outdoor AC units from flying debris.
- Use Hurricane Slabs and Straps: Anchor outdoor units securely to prevent them from being blown away.
Windows & Doors
Screenmobile provides expert advice on protecting your home's windows and doors:
Windows:
- Secure or Remove Screens: Loose screens can become projectiles, so remove or securely fasten them.
- Apply Weather Stripping: Ensure all openings are properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
- Install Storm Windows: These are designed to withstand strong winds and prevent projectiles from breaking your windows.
- Add Storm Shutters: Consider installing rolling shutters for convenient and effective protection.
Doors:
- Inspect and Reinforce Hinges and Latches: Confirm all door hinges are secure and replace any that are not with heavy-duty hinges made for storm protection.
- Add Storm Doors: These are built to protect your existing doors and hold up during severe weather events.
- Cover Glass Doors: Protect your glass doors by covering them during a hurricane. The installation of rolling security shutters or motorized screens can help provide an easy way to quickly cover doors when a storm is coming through.
Preparing Your Outdoor Spaces
While securing your home's interior is crucial, don't overlook your outdoor areas. Proper preparation of your yard, pool, and other exterior spaces can significantly reduce the risk of damage during a hurricane.
Pool
ASP - America's Swimming Pool Company recommends the following steps for pool owners:
- Don't Drain the Pool: A full pool provides weight to prevent it from "popping" out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure.
- Turn Off Electrical Components: Shut down all pool equipment to protect against power surges.
- Avoid Covering the Pool: Covers can be damaged or torn off by high winds.
- Secure Loose Items: Store all poolside furniture, floats, and other items that could become projectiles.
- Add Chlorine: Shock your pool to prepare for the influx of rainwater that will affect water chemistry.
Trees
Proper tree care is essential for hurricane prep. Monster Tree Service advises homeowners to:
- Assess Tree Stability: Look for signs of weakness such as leaning trunks, cracked limbs, or exposed roots.
- Prune Strategically: Remove dead limbs and thin dense canopies to reduce wind resistance.
- Consider Tree Removal: If a tree poses a significant risk, removal may be the safest option.
- Implement Preventative Maintenance: Regular care promotes strong, deep-rooted growth that can better withstand hurricane conditions.
Preparing The Ones You Love
Hurricane preparation isn't just about protecting your property; it's also about ensuring the safety and comfort of your loved ones, including pets and seniors.
Dog Owners
For pet owners, DoodyCalls and Woofie's recommend preparing an emergency kit for your furry friends, including:
- A week's worth of food and water
- Medications and medical records
- Leash, collar with ID tag, and a secure crate or carrier
- Comfort items like toys or a favorite blanket
- Recent photos of your pet in case of separation
Seniors
Homewatch CareGivers emphasizes the importance of special considerations for seniors during hurricane prep:
- Ensure an adequate supply of medications and medical equipment
- Prepare an emergency kit with essential items and important documents
- Create an evacuation plan that considers mobility limitations
- Coordinate with family members or caregivers for assistance
- Keep a list of emergency contacts and fully charged communication devices
After the Storm
Once the hurricane has passed, the recovery process begins. It's crucial to approach this phase with caution and preparedness.
Post-Hurricane Recovery
DRYmedic and STOP Restoration suggest doing the following once it is safe to, following a storm:
- Assess the Damage: Carefully inspect your property for structural damage, water intrusion, and potential hazards.
- Document Everything: Take photos and videos of all damage for insurance claims.
- Begin Clean-up: Start removing debris and water as soon as it's safe to do so.
- Contact Professionals: For extensive damage or flooding, consult with restoration experts.
Post-Hurricane Cleanup
The aftereffects of a hurricane may not be in the form of damage, but rather debris. A professional junk removal company like The Junkluggers can assist with post-storm cleanup, including the removal of:
- Broken fences and damaged outdoor structures
- Flooded debris and water-damaged items
- Other storm-related waste and debris
Pest Control
After a hurricane, standing water can lead to increased mosquito populations. Mosquito Squad recommends the following steps:
- Tip over containers holding standing water
- Toss out debris that can collect water
- Turn over items that could collect rainwater
- Remove tarps or covers that may be holding water
- Treat areas of standing water that can't be removed
By following this comprehensive guide to homeowner hurricane prep, you'll be well-prepared to face the challenges of hurricane season. Remember, early preparation is key to protecting your home, your loved ones, and your peace of mind. Stay informed, stay safe, and don't hesitate to reach out to professionals for assistance in your hurricane preparation efforts.
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