How to Keep Your Home Safe During a Hurricane

Living in hurricane-prone areas means preparing your home and family for the possibility of severe weather. At [Your Property Management Company], we want to help you stay safe and secure. Here are essential tips to protect your home during a hurricane.

1. **Create an Emergency Plan**

- **Know Your Evacuation Route**: Familiarize yourself with the local evacuation routes and have a plan in place for where you’ll go.

- **Prepare an Emergency Kit**: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, flashlights, and batteries.

2. **Secure Outdoor Items**

- **Bring Them Inside**: Move patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items inside to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.

- **Tie Down What You Can't Move**: Secure larger items like sheds and playsets with straps or anchors.

3. **Reinforce Windows and Doors**

- **Install Storm Shutters**: If you have them, put up storm shutters. If not, use plywood to cover windows.

- **Strengthen Doors**: Use bolts or braces to secure doors, especially garage doors, which are often vulnerable to strong winds.

4. **Check Your Roof**

- **Inspect for Damage**: Ensure there are no loose shingles or tiles that could be torn off by high winds.

- **Consider a Roof Strap**: Roof straps or clips can help secure the roof to the walls of your home, providing additional stability.

5. **Trim Trees and Shrubs**

- **Remove Dead Branches**: Trim trees and shrubs to prevent branches from breaking off and damaging your home.

- **Clear Gutters and Drains**: Ensure that gutters and drains are clear of debris to prevent water damage.

6. **Review Your Insurance**

- **Check Coverage**: Make sure your homeowners’ insurance policy covers hurricane damage, including wind and flood damage.

- **Document Valuables**: Take photos or videos of your home and belongings for insurance purposes.

7. **Install a Backup Power Source**

- **Consider a Generator**: A generator can keep essential appliances running if you lose power.

- **Keep Fuel Safe**: Store generator fuel safely and in compliance with local regulations.

8. **Turn Off Utilities If Necessary**

- **Know How to Shut Off**: Learn how to turn off gas, electricity, and water if instructed by local authorities.

- **Prevent Fires**: Turning off utilities can help prevent fires and flooding from damaged lines.

9. **Stay Informed**

- **Monitor Weather Updates**: Keep a battery-powered weather radio to stay updated on the storm’s progress.

- **Follow Local Authorities**: Listen to local authorities and follow any evacuation orders or safety instructions.

10. **After the Storm**

- **Inspect Your Home**: Once it’s safe, check your home for any damage and make temporary repairs to prevent further issues.

- **Document Damage**: Take photos of any damage for insurance claims.

At Brick + Willow your safety is our priority. By taking these steps, you can help ensure your home and family are prepared for hurricane season. Stay safe!