1. Secure Doors and Windows

High winds during hurricanes can easily shatter windows and blow open doors, posing a serious risk to your home’s structural integrity and your family’s safety. Reinforce doors and windows by installing impact-resistant glazing, storm shutters, or boarding them up with plywood. Secure garage doors to prevent them from being ripped off their tracks, which could lead to catastrophic damage to your home’s interior.

2. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Loose branches, overhanging limbs, and untrimmed trees can become dangerous projectiles during a hurricane, potentially causing significant damage to your home and property. Identify and remove any weak or dead branches, and trim trees and shrubs to reduce wind resistance. Clear your yard of any loose debris, such as lawn furniture or children’s toys, that could be picked up by high winds and become hazardous projectiles.

3. Inspect Roof and Gutters

Your roof is one of the most vulnerable areas of your home during a hurricane, as high winds and flying debris can easily compromise its integrity. Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles, tiles, or flashing, and make necessary repairs or replacements. Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water from accumulating and causing leaks or flooding. Secure any loose roofing materials to prevent them from being torn off during the storm.

4. Reinforce Exterior Structures

Outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose items should be secured or brought indoors to prevent them from becoming airborne hazards. Anchor fences, sheds, and other structures to the ground using appropriate anchoring systems or braces. Strengthen decks, patios, and porches by reinforcing their connections to your home’s main structure, as these areas are particularly vulnerable to high winds.

5. Stock Emergency Supplies

Assemble a hurricane preparedness kit with essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, and any necessary medications. Include tools, flashlights, batteries, and communication devices, such as a battery-powered radio or NOAA weather radio, to stay informed and communicate during power outages. Ensure your kit is easily accessible and that all family members know its location.

6. Create a Family Emergency Plan

Establish evacuation routes and meeting points in case you need to leave your home quickly. Assign roles and responsibilities to each family member, such as gathering important documents, securing the home, or caring for pets. Communicate your emergency plan and contact information to all household members, and ensure everyone understands the procedures to follow in case of a hurricane.

7. Secure Important Documents

Organize and safeguard essential documents, such as insurance policies, identification, and financial records, in a waterproof container or secure location. Consider making digital copies of important records as a backup in case physical documents are damaged or lost during the storm.