Natural disasters are a scary prospect for anyone, but it’s important to be prepared. This is particularly true with climate change increasing the intensity and frequency of different hazard events. Here are some tips on how you can prepare your home for any type of natural disaster that might happen in the future.
Reinforce your home against earthquakes
If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, it is important to take steps to reinforce your home against them. This can include installing earthquake straps, bolting down heavy furniture, and adding reinforcements to the foundation of your house. Doing these things can help reduce the risk of damage to your home in the event of an earthquake.
Be sure that all exterior doors are solid wood or metal, as they are sturdier materials that can better withstand an earthquake’s shaking. Secure bookshelves and other tall furniture to walls with brackets or safety straps so everything stays where it should be.
If you live in a two-story house, be sure to bolt down the water heater (preferably in a separate utility closet) to avoid it crashing through the floor into your living area. Constructing an earthquake or safe room can also be beneficial because it allows you and any other occupants to take shelter without having to run outside during an earthquake.
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Install hurricane shutters or panels
If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, you should install hurricane shutters or panels on your windows and doors. This will help protect your home from the wind and rain associated with these storms.
The best type of hurricane shutters is accordion-style shutters that can be quickly closed over the windows in the event of a storm. If you don’t have shutters, you can also use plywood panels to cover your windows. Make sure to drill holes in the panels so that water can escape and not accumulate on the surface.
It is also important to secure any objects around your home that could become projectiles during a hurricane. This includes bringing in patio furniture, storing outdoor decorations indoors, and bolting down items such as lawnmowers and garbage cans.
You should also consider replacing old windows with high-quality residential windows. Aside from providing protection, the windows should also add to the overall appeal of your home.
Check your supplies
When a natural disaster strikes, it is important to be prepared. One of the best ways to do this is to keep an emergency supply kit on hand at all times. Supplies should include water, non-perishable food items, first aid kits, blankets, flashlights and extra batteries, radios with fresh batteries, tools, and other household objects that might come in useful.
It is also important to consider having some cash on hand at all times. You never know when an emergency will happen and you lose access to your bank accounts. Having a small stockpile of cash and some gold and silver can help you pay for food and shelter, which are the top priorities after a natural disaster.
Regularly check your property for damage
Even if you do everything right and it isn’t your fault, you can still be held liable for damage to your home. This means that it is important to regularly check the exterior of your house for any damage after a hurricane or earthquake. If there is some kind of structural damage, you should get in touch with a contractor who has experience dealing with these types of problems.
Be sure to check your roof, walls, and foundation for any cracks or leaks that might cause damage over time. You can also inspect the exterior of your house for loose shutters or panels if you live in an area with hurricanes.
Preparing your home for natural disasters is important because it can help reduce the risk of damage. Make sure to diligently follow all safety measures, and regularly inspect your home for damage after a natural disaster.
Have an evacuation plan in place
When a natural disaster is approaching, it can be difficult to decide what to do. In some cases, you might have the option of sheltering in place or going to a designated evacuation area. To prepare for this, you should have an evacuation plan in place.
If you live in a flood zone, then your best bet is to go as far away from this area as possible. This might mean going somewhere inland or going to higher ground. In other cases, you might need to evacuate in the middle of a storm because your area isn’t safe from debris and flooding.
Natural disasters can cause a lot of damage to your home, so it is important to be prepared. You can improve your chances of coming out unscathed with these tips like keeping emergency supplies stocked, knowing what items you should be saving, and getting insurance. Having an evacuation plan in place is also crucial in case of emergencies. Make sure to regularly check your property for damage after a natural disaster and get in touch with a contractor if you find any structural problems.
