Strong winds from hurricanes and tropical storms can have a big impact on your home. Even areas away from our Carolina coast have powerful winds as these systems move across our state.
Tips for preparing and strengthening your home:
- Now is the time to shop for tested and approved window coverings. These will need to be put in place prior to the arrival of a hurricane or tropical storm.
- Make sure caulking around windows is intact. Replace if needed.
- Make sure, and keep, trees and shrubs around your home trimmed and in good shape. Damage is often caused by broken branches.
- Double check any "attached structures" such as carports. Make sure bolts are intact and the structure is solidly anchored.
- Move cars inside a garage or find another secure location for protection.
- Remember that garage doors must be secured properly. Given their size, these tend to be the most vulnerable to high winds. Secure all other doors around your home as well.
- Bring in all loose items around your yard, patio and porches. Items such as children's toys, patio furniture and gardening tools, should be secured. These items can cause a lot of damage if blown around by strong winds.
- Consider adding a generator to your home. This can help with prolonged periods of power outages cause my tropical systems.
- Make sure any pumps for the home are in good working order
Keeping your home in good repair can help strengthen your home against possible damage and powerful winds. Coastal residents should have plywood, aluminum or steel panels to board up windows and doors.
Evacuate when requested if you are able to do so.