Keeping Safe from the Storm – Hurricane Preparedness

Summer and fall are prime months for stormy weather in the south. In addition to being rainy, the six-month hurricane season runs from June until November. Having an appropriate plan in case of severe weather is very important when you live in tropical areas such as Houston, Florida and the Gulf Coast States of Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.

 

• Secure your roof – Use hurricane straps or clips to strap down your roof. These fasten to the frame of the roof to help reduce damage from high winds.
• Bolt exterior doors – By installing head and foot bolts to all doors that enter your home, you will provide additional stability and protection from the damaging winds that typically accompany hurricanes and tropical storms.
• Create shutters for your windows – Custom-made storm shutters can be purchased to fit each of your home’s windows, patio door or other expanses of glass. Additionally, a skilled individual can also build them using exterior or marine grade plywood.  
• Fill in the gaps – Examine your windows, doors, and siding for gaps and cracks in the caulking. Fill these with new caulk promptly. This will help to keep driving rain from penetrating the area causing excess moisture to build up.
• Secure all exterior structures – Carports, porches, canopies and outbuildings such as sheds and pool houses can sustain severe damage from wind and rain. Make sure these buildings and additions are firmly secured.  
• Test pumps and drains – In addition to high winds, tropical storms and hurricanes also produce a great deal of rain. Be sure your sump pump and drains are working properly to help alleviate any standing water in your home. If you fear an electrical outage, consider purchasing a backup generator. 
• Trim the shrubs – Branches and limbs can create a lot of damage during a hurricane. Keep landscaping trimmed and remove dead or overgrown branches.
• Know your insurance coverage – Determine if you need any additional coverage on your existing insurance policy to cover flooding or wind damage. And, take careful inventory of the belongings in your home and store in a safe place so you can refer back to it if you suffer any property loss.

 

Allstate Insurance Agent, Melissa Baxter-Penzato, has the coverage you need to protect your home from natural disasters such as hurricanes. Contact her today at 985-875-7707 for information on this type of home insurance coverage.