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Hurricane Ian Recap: How To Prepare For Hurricane Season

Updated: January 16, 2024

Hurricane Ian is believed to be the deadliest hurricane in Florida. This year, it slammed Southwest Florida in September, resulting in considerable property damage. While the results of hurricane Ian may sound scary, understanding how to prepare for a hurricane will go a long way. 

Nowadays, most homeowners invest in hurricane-impact doors and windows to avert storm damage to their properties. We cannot talk of hurricane doors and windows without mentioning Elite Impact Glass. 

We are a leading distributor and installer of superior-quality hurricane-impact doors and windows. These upgrades help protect your property against storm damage and enhance your safety. Here is how to prepare for a hurricane;

Make a Plan

Your plan to stay safe during the next hurricane season should include; keeping emergency phone numbers safe and easily accessible. Have an emergency supply kit and identify the nearest safe homes and the appropriate route to get there. Your pets matter, too; identify shelters or other safe places to take them during evacuation. 

Gather Emergency Supplies

Hurricanes will likely disconnect power and water supply. Having emergency supplies on hand is one of the best ways to prepare for a hurricane. 

The essential emergency supplies to prepare for hurricane seasons include:

  • Food and water supply
  • Medical supplies
  • Power sources
  • Essential documents such as wills, passports, and personal identification
  • Personal and safety items, including a fire extinguisher

Know the Difference Between a Hurricane “Watch” and “Warning”

Listen to weather alerts and stay updated on what is happening. Watch out for more storms before commencing restoration on your property. Again, know the difference between a hurricane watch and a warning.

A hurricane watch informs you that a hurricane is likely to happen in a certain area. Experts announce this 48 hours before they anticipate the start of tropical storm-force winds. 

Similarly, a hurricane warning is severe as it states that hurricane-force winds are expected in that area. Experts will issue the warnings 36 hours before the tropical storm-force wind is expected. The time frame is adequate for people to prepare for hurricane impacts.

Get Your Car Ready

You can prepare for hurricane season effectively by keeping your car ready. Achieve this by filling the gas tank and moving it to your garage or safe space. Moreover, keep an emergency kit in the car; you never know when you will need it.

Get Your Family and Pets Ready

Prepare your family and pets in advance and know the steps to take in case a hurricane strikes. Design a checklist of things to do and share it with your family members. Be alert and watch the TV or listen to the radio for the latest updates.

Moreover, if you have special needs, call the hospital or police department for assistance and put your pets in a safe place.

Securing Your Home Before a Hurricane

Start by securing your property in the event of strong winds, tropical storms, and potential floods.

  • All the items in your yard that can be carried by strong winds should be moved inside. This means outdoor furniture, decor, garbage cans, and even gravel or rock landscaping. 
  • Trim your trees and shrubs. Cut off weak branches and remove them from your property. You don’t want them flying around and causing damage.
  • Reinforce your windows and external doors by covering them with shutters or pieces of wood. It’s also a good idea to have hurricane impact windows and doors installed beforehand. They do not shatter like standard windows, but rather crack in a spider web-like pattern. Even when broken, it is estimated that these windows can survive winds reaching a speed of up to 200 miles per hour.
  • Turning off the power
  • Fill your water containers, sinks, and bathtubs with clean water
  • Reinforce the roof and secure rain gutters.
  • Seal outdoor vents with a water-proof material such as caulk.

Be Ready to Evacuate or Stay At Home

The authorities will advise on whether to evacuate or not. Therefore, obey the orders and make the necessary arrangements. 

If you need to evacuate:

  • Take your emergency kit 
  • Unplug your appliances, and switch off power, gas, and water
  • Follow the recommended route

If you need to stay home

  • Ensure the emergency kit is easily accessible 
  • Listen to TV and radio for updates
  • Stay indoors until you receive an official notice that the hurricane is over
  • Stay away from windows to prevent injuries from broken glass

What to Stock Up On for a Hurricane

After securing your property, you’ll want to stock up on supplies and have an evacuation plan in case the officials deem it necessary. These are some of the supplies you’ll want to have:

  • Drinking water that will last you and your family at least three days.
  • Food that has a longer shelf life and doesn’t require refrigeration. Canned fish and meat, Rice, Canned Beans, Baby Food, etc.
  • First-aid kit
  • Flashlights
  • Extra batteries
  • Candles and matches
  • Can opener
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Basic tools
  • Specialized weather radio
  • In case of a power outage, having a power generator that runs on gas can be a lifesaver.

Professional Impact & Storm Door & Window Installation Services in Miami

Elite Impact Glass cares about your home and will install superior quality hurricane impact doors and windows. We engage skilled installers who will ensure quality craftsmanship in your project. Contact us to help you prepare for the next hurricane season.

Why Choose Elite Impact Glass for Door & Window Installation

Elite Impact Glass caters to all your hurricane window and door needs. We want you to stay safe by installing superior-quality doors and windows in your home. We engage highly skilled technicians, and there are various reasons to hire us. These include;

A Job Done Right

We are keen on small details and will not rest until your project is successful. We use the proper equipment and tools to save time and enhance safety on your property.

Trained, Licensed, Bonded, and Drug Tested

Our installers have undergone rigorous training and can handle different hurricane doors and windows. They are highly skilled, certified, bonded, and licensed and you can expect high levels of professionalism throughout the entire project.

Local, Trusted, Passionate

Working with a local installer offers numerous benefits. We are best suited for your project since we understand your needs better. We are also very passionate about doors and windows, and you can trust us to handle your installation project.

Image Credit to: speedshutter PhotographySkylines