The climatic conditions are so unpredictable in Tampa Florida that they force the homeowners to expect storms and hurricanes at any time of the year. There are quite a few things to be taken into consideration when you prepare your home for the event. You will have to consider your home area by area. You may have to think about everything from the roof to the basement and the backyard to the beautifully landscaped garden. If your home happens to be in a hurricane-prone area, it is better to consider hurricane-proofing during its construction.
1. Roof
A general roof inspection is in order if you receive a hurricane alert. Take the help from a professional roofer to check the integrity of the roof frame and bracings of the trusses. Now the roofers often recommend roof straps in hurricane-prone areas. It is a good idea to take them seriously. Check the shingles and other roof-top installations for susceptibility. Strengthen them as far as possible. Check the gables and barricade them so that the wind does not enter your Tampa roof.
2. Gutters
Gutters and downspouts are structures that bear the brunt of the wind to the maximum. Clean them for uninhibited flow off, and fix the structures so that they are not torn away.
3. Windows and doors
However, the aspects that should receive your utmost attention should be the windows and doors of your home. These two structures let air in and out of your home. The hurricane affects these two components of your home the most. Take utmost care to close these openings as airtight as possible. The windows should be closed and bolted, and if needed, nail plywood over the windows from outside. Doors also should be closed and bolted. It is a good idea to check the seams and frame alignments for vulnerability and remedy any weaknesses if you notice them. Now impact-resistant windows and doors are available in the market. Investing in them during the construction will not go for a loss.
4. Garage
The garage is another opening that lets wind inside. Install impact-resistant doors to the garage during the construction. If the doors are ordinary, fortify them with vertical braces and horizontal bars from inside.
5. Yard
Bring in every movable thing like tools, garden furniture inside. Park the car and bikes safely in the garage. Any items of furniture that are in the open porch and veranda should be brought in. The things that cannot be detached should be checked thoroughly and secured well.
When you have secured your property well, think of other eventualities.
6. Survival kit
If there is a possibility of an evacuation, prepare for it beforehand. Make a survival kit consisting of general medicines, bandages, first-aid kit, non-perishable food items, waterproof clothing, flashlights, phones, a diary with phone numbers, phone chargers, etc.
7. Pets
Make adequate provisions for the pets. They fret during violent weather. If you need an evacuation, make arrangements with suitable pet hostels well beforehand to transfer them to safety.
8. Preparation for power failure
The power is almost always cut off for days in the event of a hurricane. It is good to have a generator. If not, see that your refrigerators and freezers are turned to the maximum point as soon as you receive the alert.
9. General preparations
Be ready with a radio that works in the battery. Make sure you listen to every bulletin about the hurricane. If evacuation is recommended, do not tarry till the last moment. It may not be possible if it is too late. If you do not need an evacuation, do not venture out during the hurricane, till it is declared safe. Unplug all appliances. Turn off the electricity and gas.
10. Insurance
If you live in an area where hurricanes and other violent weather events are frequent, it is better to have an insurance policy that covers all types of eventualities.
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