No one likes the idea of risking property damage during a
hurricane. In Florida or other hurricane zone states, however,
it is something one must be prepared for. Being ready for the
next Katrina, Rita, or Andrew isn't a pleasant thought, but it
is vital to protect your Florida real estate, your family, and
your investment when and if it were to happen to you.
Windows and Glass Doors
Protecting your windows and sliding glass doors is one of many
things you can do in order to prepare for the storm. Many times,
people rush out to buy plywood or tape at the last minute in
order to seemingly do the right thing, but there is far more to
do in case the hurricane hits. Tape will not protect your
windows, and it is not enough to simply have the plywood. If you
resort to using plywood to cover the windows, it's best to use
marine plywood; make sure you have the plywood cut and ready to
fit before-hand, with screw holes in place before the storm. If
your plywood does not securely fit over your windows or sliding
glass doors, your efforts may simply be wasted. If air currents
are able to slip past your plywood covers, then you may still
get broken windows. If you do not wish to use plywood to cover
your windows, investing in metal shutters is a better choice to
help ride out the storm.
You might consider investing in impact-resistant glass for your
windows. This option is pretty expensive, however, if you
consider what happens if your windows get broken during a
hurricane, the damage may be more costly than your investment in
impact-resistant glass. When hurricane winds break windows,
there are more issues at hand than broken glass flying
throughout your home. The pressure caused by the winds through
broken windows can be enough to remove your roof and send it
hurtling into the sky, and the pressure can then cause the walls
to collapse.
Have Supplies on Hand
Keep non-perishable food items, bottle water, batteries, and a
first-aid kit available should you come into an emergency
situation. Be prepared with blankets, extra clothing, and sturdy
shoes should you have to ride out the storm in your home.
Buy a Generator
During a hurricane, many utility lines get damaged; electricity
is sometimes the last utility to come back on. Having a
generator on hand will be vital especially in times of need for
cooking, cooling your home, and other daily activities.
Keep a Weather Radio Close
When a hurricane watch is posted, it will be in your best
interest to keep on top of the weather news. Staying tuned to
advisories may mean the difference between life and death in a
time where you might need to evacuate the premises.
Keep Tools Handy
If you need a ladder to put those plywood window covers up, it
will not be a good idea to have to run next door to the
neighbor's house to borrow one. If you are trying to screw your
metal shutters closed, and do not have your screwdriver close at
hand, running around search for one isn't going to help you save
time.
Remove Dead Trees or Keep Trees Trimmed
Keeping possible hazards like weak tree limbs from damaging your
home will be important during a hurricane. Many times, it is the
flying debris during a storm that can do the most property
damage. By removing these hazards, you'll have a better chance
at avoiding some costly repairs.
Be Prepared to Evacuate
If in the event you will have to evacuate your home during a
hurricane, you will need to have a plan of action. Know where
family members will be, how to get out of town when necessary
and where to go, how early to leave (possibly avoiding traffic
jams), and how to get in contact with each other should you
become separated. If you have things you need on a daily basis,
have a bag ready to go with these items. Make sure to include
emergency information such as doctor's contacts, medications and
medication information, insurance policies, baby formula and
diapers, or any other thing you may need in case of an
emergency. Make sure small children know their home phone
numbers and addresses, and can give vital information to relief
workers or law enforcement officials, or are equipped with their
parents' contact information in other ways, such as on an id
bracelet.
Having your Florida real estate prepared for the worst of the
season's storms can save you time, money, energy, and possible
heartache during a time of emergency. Ultimately, planning for a
disaster can help you avoid one entirely.
Copyright © 2006 G Beaty. All rights reserved.
About the Author: G Beaty is a homebuilder and real estate
broker for over 25 years. For free information on new home
construction visit;
http://www.favoriteproperties.com
About the author:
G Beaty is a homebuilder and real estate broker for over 25
years. For free information on new home construction visit;
http://www.favoriteproperties.com
