The coast is hit with detrimental storms each year. Instead of waiting for tragedy to strike, read about 7 important ways to prepare for severe storms on the coast.
7 Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast
Coastal states endure storms with strong winds, harsh rain, and floods. Residents of coastal states must secure their homes more than states in the middle of the country. Here are some ways to prepare for severe storms on the coast and guarantee your home is ready.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Make a Storm Cellar or Basement Available
The best location to protect yourself from a storm is underground. It guards against strong winds and debris blowing above the surface. Storm cellars and basements are two of the best underground options to stay safe during a storm.
Remember (just like on the main levels of your home), stay away from any windows if you’re in a basement. If you choose a storm cellar, ensure you have ample time to reach it. Then, carefully secure the doors so they don’t fly open as the storm rages.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Create an Emergency Supply Bag
You never know what may happen during a storm. Suppose you’re underground for a few days. You’ll need non-perishable food, water, flashlights, first aid supplies, and medicine for anyone with a medical condition.
Fill the emergency supply bag with these essential items and any additional belongings you deem necessary. Place the bag in an accessible place everyone in the house knows. That way, everyone can obtain emergency supplies no matter who is home when a storm hits.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Prepare Your Home for Impact
When you live on the coast, you frequently encounter severe storms. The best way to prepare is to secure various areas of your home for the potential threat of a storm. I know this sounds very obvious, but it’s worth noting every time.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Improve the Roofing
One way to improve a roof’s wind resistance is to install a metal roof. Many coastal homes lose their roofs because the intense winds tear them away. Metal roofs are incredibly durable and won’t falter under immense pressure from wind and debris. Also, they tend to be longer lasting than traditional shingles.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Remove Outdoor Items
If the forecast predicts a severe storm, clean up all outdoor belongings well ahead of time. Bring in lawn furniture, tools, and any other belongings that the wind may take. Not only will the weather damage these items, but they could harm neighbors if the wind sweeps them away.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Prepare Storm Shutters
Glass windows can easily shatter on impact. To prevent this issue, install storm shutters at each window. They’re easy to use before a storm arrives and are commonly composed of durable materials like aluminum, steel, and polycarbonate.
If you don’t have time to install storm shutters, or they’re unaffordable for you, use plywood and nail it down securely.
Ways To Prepare for Severe Storms on the Coast – Consider Shutting Off the Power
In some cases, you must evacuate the area and move to a safe location. Before doing so, shut off the power supply to your house. If there’s a chance of flooding, turning off the power eliminates the risk of electricity mixing with the water. You risk being electrocuted if you don’t cut the power.
When you don’t need to evacuate, it’s up to you whether you shut off the power. Turning off the power removes access to lights and the TV. It also stops appliances like the refrigerator. However, it will prevent the risk of electrocution via water. If you’ve prepared your emergency supply kit properly, you should have plenty of rations to last several days at home without power.
Keep these helpful tips in mind before a storm hits. It’s essential to act proactively to safeguard your loved ones in case of a storm.