Hurricanes can have devastating effects on homes. Before a hurricane, it is important to prepare your home for potential storm damage. This includes taking precautionary measures to protect your home and family.
For homeowners in Delaware, hurricane season can be especially chaotic. From securing outdoor items to stocking up on basic emergency kits, taking the right steps now can help minimize the impact of a hurricane.
Fortunately, preparing your home for a hurricane is not complicated. With these simple steps, you can ensure your family and property maintain their well-being during a storm.
Secure Outdoor Items and Prepare Your Property
The first step to preparing your home for a hurricane in Delaware is to secure outdoor items. This includes securing outdoor furniture, removing deck chairs, and tying down trampolines. If you have large trees on your property, check to make sure they are not diseased, dead, or weakened. If not, trim dead or weak branches to reduce the chances of them being knocked down during the storm. Additionally, make sure to consult with your local emergency management office to get further advice on what you should do to prepare your home and property for a hurricane.
Finally, move or remove items like propane tanks, generators, and fuel tanks away from the house. These items need to be placed in a secure area away from your home to prevent them from being damaged by a hurricane.
Create a Supply Kit and Emergency Plan
Creating an emergency plan and supply kit can help you stay safe in the event of a hurricane. Emergency plans consist of evacuation plans, meeting places, and routes you can take in case of an emergency. Supply kits, meanwhile, have items such as food, water, first-aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio. Make sure these items are easily accessible and organized in an easy-to-carry bag or container.
In addition to a supply kit, it is also important that you have an emergency contact list that includes important phone numbers. Additionally, you should also have a list of medications, important documents, and additional items that you will need in the event of an emergency.
Finally, make sure to have a backup generator ready in case of a power outage. This is especially important for items you will need during a storm such as lights, refrigerators, and medical devices.
Have Storm Shutters and Plywood Ready
Having storm shutters and plywood ready is important in case of a hurricane. Storm shutters not only help protect your windows from high winds and debris, but they can also help keep out rain and flooding. Similarly, plywood can also be used to cover windows for extra protection. Make sure to have these materials ready in case of a hurricane.
- Secure outdoor furniture and other objects
- Create a supply kit and emergency plan
- Have storm shutters and plywood ready
- Inspect foundation and roof
- Purchase flood insurance
Inspect Foundation and Roof
In addition to securing outdoor items, it is important to inspect your home’s foundation and roof for any damage prior to a hurricane. Make sure the foundations of your home are sturdy and the roof can withstand strong winds. If you find any cracks or weaknesses in the foundation or roof of your home, you should contact a professional to repair it before a hurricane hits.
Purchase Flood Insurance
Finally, if you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you should consider purchasing flood insurance. Flood insurance can help cover the costs of damage that arises from flood water entering your home. Make sure you read the policy to understand what it covers and the time limit it applies to.
By taking the time to properly prepare your home for a hurricane in Delaware, you can protect your family and property. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your home is well-prepared for the upcoming storm season.