Get Ready for Hurricane Season: How to Protect Your Home

Hurricane season is upon us, and it's important to prepare your home for the worst-case scenario.

Develop an emergency plan, including where to stay during the hurricane and evacuation routes.

Emergency operations officials urge residents to prepare to be self-sufficient for up to 14 days without running water or electricity.

Take photographs or recording for insurance purposes. Update your phone number and email address, and gather important documents in a waterproof container.

Turn refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings and consider storing blocks of ice in coolers and filling your bathtub with water.

When a storm is approaching, secure your home by storing objects from your yard inside, fastening doors and windows, and covering valuables and furniture with plastic.

Turn off and unplug non-essential electrical equipment and consider installing an approved hurricane shutter system over windows and doors.

After the storm has passed, make emergency repairs only when it's safe to do so. Turn off circuit breakers and disconnect electrical appliances still plugged in.

Be cautious when using a grill or other emergency cooking devices, and do not use candles. Remember to stay informed and follow the advice of local authorities and emergency management officials.

Don't attempt to trim any vegetation growing on or near power lines. Only hire qualified professionals to trim trees and other vegetation growing near power lines.

Be aware  of and familiar with your local evacuation routes and make sure your emergency plan includes them.

Be sure to have a backup power source or make arrangements to relocate if a storm warning is issued and someone in your home is dependent on electric-powered, life-sustaining medical equipment.

Consider getting a non-cordless, non-mobile telephone for your home in case the power goes out and/or mobile service is not available.

Make a list of important phone numbers, including your local emergency management office, and keep a battery-operated radio on hand.

Turn to local news and weather reports for updates, and keep an eye on the storm's track. Be sure to have enough supplies, such as food, water, and medication, to last for at least a week.

In conclusion, preparing your home for hurricane season is crucial to ensuring the safety of you and your family.

By developing an emergency plan, preparing your home, and knowing what to do after the storm, you can help minimize damage and stay safe during hurricane season.

Don't wait until it's too late to start preparing your home.