Hurricane Preparedness: Protecting Your Home and Family

Hurricane Preparedness: Protecting Your Home and Family

As we move into the heart of hurricane season, experts are predicting a higher-than-average number of storms this year. For Houston area homeowners, it’s crucial to be prepared well in advance. Here’s what you need to know to safeguard your home and family.

Current Predictions for the Hurricane Season

Meteorologists are forecasting an active hurricane season with several major storms potentially impacting the Gulf Coast. This increased activity is attributed to warmer ocean temperatures and other climatic factors. While these predictions are not guarantees, they highlight the importance of being prepared.

Often in Houston, the later part of hurricane season is when we typically see more activity. So, it’s crucial to ensure that your home is prepared to withstand any potential challenges that may come our way. Living in the Gulf Coast region, we know that hurricanes can be a serious threat, but with the right preparation, we can minimize risks and protect our homes and loved ones.

I’m sharing a concise checklist to help you be prepared.  My advice is not to wait until we hear of a potential storm heading in this direction.  These are ten easy things for each of us to take care of this week, so we are hurricane-ready:

1. **Inspect and Reinforce Your Roof:** Your roof is your first line of defense. Ensure it’s in good condition, fixing any loose shingles or damaged areas. Consider reinforcing it with hurricane straps to prevent it from lifting during strong winds.

2. **Trim Trees and Shrubs:** Overhanging branches and tall shrubs can become hazards during a hurricane. Trim them to prevent potential damage to your property and utility lines.

3. **Secure Outdoor Items:** Patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items can become projectiles in high winds. Store them in a secure place or tie them down to prevent them from causing damage.

4. **Check Windows and Doors:** Ensure doors and windows are properly sealed in order to prevent water penetration. And of course, once a storm is heading this way When reinforce windows with storm shutters or plywood.

5. **Clear Gutters and Drains:** Make sure your gutters and drains are clear of debris. This will help prevent water from pooling and potentially causing flooding.

6. **Review Insurance Coverage:** Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for hurricane-related damages. Consider flood insurance if you’re in a flood-prone area. Again, do this now…once a storm is in the gulf changes cannot be made to your policy.

7. **Create an Emergency Kit:** Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.

8. **Backup Power:** Consider investing in a generator to keep essential appliances running during power outages.

9. **Secure Garage Doors:** Reinforce garage doors to prevent them from buckling under pressure. If they fail, strong winds can enter and potentially cause extensive damage.

10. **Have a Family Plan:** Discuss an evacuation plan with your family. Identify a safe location and establish a communication plan in case you get separated.

Remember, preparation is key. By taking these steps NOW, you can do your best to ensure that you and your home are ready to face whatever challenges hurricane season may bring. If you have any questions or need recommendations for a roofer, insurance contact, or a landscape contact, don’t hesitate to reach out.