1. Be Informed
“Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance, and conscientious stupidity.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
While it is hard to be ignorant to the incoming storms, with news and social media outlets sharing and keeping us up to date on, being informed is a completely different story. Knowing the severity will help you properly prepare for the upcoming storm, knowing the difference between a hurricane and a tropical depression will help you to avoid over or even worse under-preparing for the weather. Once the storm hits there is very little changes you can make to further protect your home from the outside.
2. Storm-Proof the Windows
Glass can be one of the first things to break when the winds pick up and debris gets picked up and thrown around. Broken Glass can be a big hazard for you and your family when the storm hits, the best way to protect yourself is to install storm shutters. They come in many shapes and sizes, and you can also create your own by attaching plywood to your windows to protect them from flying debris.
3. Storm-Proof the Doors:
The second structure on your home to go after windows is doors. They are often not fitted with bolts or pins that are strong enough to withstand storm-force winds. Thankfully you can purchase additional bolts and install them on your doors quick and easy to give you peace of mind that your door will stay standing during the high force winds.
Garage doors should not be ignored, they often give way when high winds consistently hit and push against the vertical hinges and braces. Bracing kits can be purchased from the garage door manufacturer, which will come with a horizontal bracer, something to keep in mind to protect your automobiles.
4. Collect Supplies and Create a Kit
The main question you may have is ‘What should be put in this kit?”. The most important two things should be Bottled Water, and Non-Perishable Foods. From many sources and many expert opinions, a Disaster Kit should then include; Medication, Radios, Batteries, Flashlights, a First Aid Kit, and a Lighter/Candles.
5. Review your Insurance Policy
Remember that no matter how much you prepare, the impact of a catastrophe on your home can be devastating. Talk to your insurance provider to make sure you have adequate coverage to repair or rebuild in the current building market under your homeowner's insurance policy.
What to do next?
Even following all these steps can not completely reduce the risk of damages from the storm. BCA Insurance Group can help review your Home Insurance and Flood Insurance policies to make sure they are up to date and provide the right amount of coverage for anything that could happen. Contact Us today to have any questions or concerns answered!