How to Prepare for a Hurricane

If you live in a coastal state, you know that a hurricane is no joke. Although no one can control where or when a hurricane will strike, the best way to reduce any damage that a hurricane could cause is to be prepared.

Whether you need to remain at home or create and execute a hurricane evacuation plan, prepping for a hurricane is one of the best ways to keep your property and your home safe. Keep reading to learn more about our top tips to get ready for a hurricane.

What to Do During a Hurricane

As mentioned above, it’s the steps you take before the hurricane makes landfall that will have the most impact on what you need to do once the hurricane hits.

First, we would always recommend making a hurricane plan. If you and your family do need to evacuate, turn off all your utilities and follow the local community disaster preparedness plans. Decide on a common meeting place for your loved ones if you get separated and don’t forget to include your pets in your evacuation strategy as well.

Second, make sure the exterior of your home is as secured as possible. For example, trim any large trees or bushes, bring in any bikes or outdoor furniture and if necessary, secure any permanent outdoor sculptures with burlap or blankets tied with rope.

Finally, install storm shutters. If you know a hurricane is coming, try to protect your doors, windows, and skylights with shutters or impact-resistant glass. If the storm or hurricane happens very last-minute, you can always nail pieces of plywood to window frames.

Hurricane Safety Tips

Identify an enclosed area on the first floor of your home with no windows and choose that as your designated shelter room. You and your loved ones can stay in this room until the storm passes to reduce the chance of injury due to broken glass or falling objects. We would also recommend prepping an emergency kit to store in your shelter room. This kit should include flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, cash, blankets, clothing, and toiletries. Another important tip when it comes to hurricane safety is to store any important documentation you may have. Legal papers such as marriage licenses, birth certificates, financial papers, and insurance policies should be stored in a safety deposit box or bolted safe in an interior closet in your property.

There are many ways to prepare your family and your home for a hurricane. When it comes to the exterior of your property, you may want the experience and expertise of a landscape professional to review any preparedness measures you have in mind. Contact the team at Cutters Edge today if you’re interested in making your home more secure in case of a hurricane or tropical storm.