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10 Tips to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane
When a hurricane is poised to make landfall and the authorities issue an evacuation order, you may not have much time before you leave to protect your home from the impending storm and the flooding and damage it can cause.
There is so much to do to prepare for a hurricane that it can be overwhelming. But doing a few simple things can make the difference in how well your home withstands the storm and how quickly you can return to it once the storm passes. Here are a few tips to help you get ready:
1. Clean up around your property – tuck away planters, lawn ornaments, patio furniture, garbage cans, grills, etc in a secure location so that they are as protected as possible.
2. Secure windows and doors – Board up your windows to prevent leaks and broken glass, and, where necessary, secure doors with storm shutters.
3. Store important documents in the dishwasher – One of the best ways to prepare for a hurricane is to store your important documents in a safe place Since your dishwasher is waterproof, no water can get in, so you documents will be safe and sound.
4. The higher the better – Move electronics, small appliances, and other things with wires to upper levels and high shelves — as far away from water as possible.
5. Clean your gutters – if your gutters are clogged with leaves and pine needles, then that can cause water to leak back into your house.
6. Get a surge protector – installing a whole-home protector that could handle surges from coming inside and outside the home, protecting big ticket items like refrigerators and washing machines.
7. Fill the bathtub with water – Before the storm, fill your tub with water. That way if you lose power you will still be able to flush to toilet.
8. Stock up on plenty of bottled water and snacks, as well as gas for the generator if you have one.
9. Freeze baggies of water – if the power goes out you will have ice that you can spread throughout your freezer and fridge to help keep things cold.
10. Keep a flashlight, extra batteries and a first aid kit stocked with emergency supplies.
Not everything can be controlled, but a little prevention can go a long way. Before all else, take care of yourself and the ones you love. Houses can be rebuilt and they can be fixed, so ensure that you are in a safe place and protected from the storm.
For the most recent information on Hurricane Ida please visit https://www.weather.gov/srh/tropical?office=lix