How to Protect Your Home During a Hurricane

Published: September 01, 2024

Hurricanes can be incredibly destructive, but there are several steps you can take to protect your home and minimize damage. Preparing in advance is key to ensuring the safety of your property and loved ones. Here’s a helpful guide on safeguarding your home during a hurricane. 

1. Create a Hurricane Preparedness Plan

The first step in protecting your home during a hurricane is to have a comprehensive preparedness plan. This plan should include:

• Emergency Contacts: List important phone numbers, including family, emergency services, and local authorities.
• Evacuation Routes: Identify the safest routes and shelters near you.
• Supplies: Stock up on essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, medications, and a first aid kit.

Review your plan regularly with all family members. A clear plan will better prepare you to handle the storm and its aftermath.

2. Secure the Exterior of Your Home

One of the most crucial steps in hurricane preparation is securing your home’s exterior. Here’s how to do it:

• Install Hurricane Shutters: Invest in sturdy hurricane shutters or plywood to protect your windows from flying debris. 
• Reinforce Doors: Use solid wood or metal doors for exterior entry points. Adding deadbolts and reinforcing door frames can help prevent them from being breached by high winds.
• Clear Gutters and Drains: Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris to prevent flooding. Proper drainage will help reduce water damage to your home’s foundation.

3. Protect Your Roof

Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a hurricane. To protect it:

• Inspect and Repair: Check your roof for any loose or damaged shingles and repair them as needed. A well-maintained roof is less likely to sustain damage during strong winds.
• Secure Roof Tiles: If you have roof tiles, make sure they are securely fastened. Loose tiles can become projectiles.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim trees or branches that are close to your roof to prevent them from causing damage.

4. Elevate Electrical Systems

Flooding is a big concern during hurricanes, especially in areas prone to heavy rains and storm surges. To protect your electrical systems:

• Elevate Electrical Outlets: Raise electrical outlets, switches, and appliances above potential flood levels. This precaution helps prevent damage in case water does enter your home.
• Use Waterproof Covers: Install waterproof covers for your outdoor electrical outlets to protect them from rain and water.
• Protect Electrical Panels: Ensure that your electrical panels are located above potential flood levels. If they are at risk, consider having them relocated to a higher level or reinforced against water damage.

5. Prepare Your Landscape

Your landscaping can impact how your home fares during a hurricane. To prepare:

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure any outdoor furniture, garden tools, or decorations. These items can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds.
• Reinforce Fences: Check and reinforce fences to ensure they can withstand high winds. Weak or damaged fences can break and cause damage to your home or neighboring properties.
• Check Drainage: Ensure that your yard has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling near your home’s foundation.

6. Have a Post-Hurricane Plan

Once the hurricane has passed, you’ll need a plan for dealing with any damage and ensuring your safety:

• Inspect Your Home: After the storm, carefully inspect your home for damage before re-entering. Look for signs of structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical issues.
• Document Damage: Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes. Document the extent of the damage.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about any damage as soon as possible. They can guide you through the claims process and help you get the assistance you need.

Protecting your home during a hurricane involves a combination of preparation and quick action. By creating a thorough preparedness plan, securing your home’s exterior, protecting your roof, and elevating your electrical systems, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Additionally, preparing your landscape and having a post-hurricane plan will help you respond effectively after the storm. With these steps, you’ll be better equipped to safeguard your home and ensure the safety of your loved ones. Stay safe and prepared!

To find out how we can help, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Jacksonville or call (904) 298-6939.