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HOW-TO’S

Tighten up your storm tool belt

When the skies are clear and the sun is shining, a hurricane seems a thousand miles away. We know it’s no fun to think about the worst case scenario, but with a little forethought and a touch of elbow grease, you can prepare yourself for whatever comes over the horizon.

Make a Plan

Double-check that your homeowners, windstorm and flood insurance policies are effective.
Coordinate preparation plans in the event of a storm with your neighbors.
Take ''before'' pictures of your home and store them in a secure place where you can access them after the storm.
Develop an evacuation plan so that everyone in your family knows where to go if they are forced to leave.

Prepare your home

Safeguard your windows and doors, i.e. if you don’t have wind-resistant windows, consider buying shutters or, as a last-resort, pre-fitted plywood panels.
If you buy shutters, check to make sure they meet Miami-Dade County wind-resistance standards.
Standards to look for include SSTD 12-97 or ASTM E 1996-00
Also, ask about the weight gauge or thickness (the greater the thickness—for aluminum—the stronger the shutter)
Install shutters over large attic wall vents or skylights.
Consider buying shutters for your doors, especially any door containing a substantial amount of glass.
Reinforce your garage door and tracks with center supports.
Wedge sliding glass doors and windows.
Choose one door, such as a side door to the garage, as an entry and exit point.

Weathering the Storm

Bring objects that can blow away easily inside, e.g. your mailbox, garbage cans and lawn furniture.
Anchor down or secure objects that you cannot move, e.g. window air conditioner units.
Cover valuable indoor furniture with plastic.
Choose a safe room, preferably an interior hallway or bedroom with no windows, to ride out the storm.
Keep a mattress and a functional fire extinguisher nearby.