FRONT PORCH

There’s actually a lot that you can do to help protect your home and minimize damage before a storm. With hurricane season in our midst, go through these tips to make certain you’re as ready as possible for a serious weather scenario.

Outdoor Preparation

• Trim trees and shrubs before storms roll in and pay particular attention to branches above roofs. Consider removing damaged trees that may be too weak to withstand high winds. Be sure to properly dispose of branches and any loose debris.
• Protect your windows. Impact-resistant windows or storm shutters will provide your home with maximum protection. If you are a Neal Communities homeowner, refer to your storm shutter floor plan located in your shutter kit box to make the process as seamless as possible.
• Bring any loose items inside, including garbage and recycling bins, outdoor furniture, grills, yard decorations, or potted plants. Make sure balconies and porches are clear as well.
• For pools, lower the water six inches, add extra chlorine, and turn off electricity to the pool’s pump. If possible, cover your pool with an approved and secure pool cover.
• Consider purchasing a generator to keep just in case your power goes out during a storm. For more information on generator safety check out the link here.

Indoor Preparation

• If a power outage is anticipated, modify your refrigerator and freezer to the highest setting and make sure that the doors are secured shut. According to government food safety guidelines, if these doors are left closed, cold items will remain cold for 4 hours and frozen items can stay frozen for up to 48 hours.
• If storm surge is a concern, move light furniture like kitchen chairs and side tables to upper floors in homes with multiple levels. If possible, elevate heavy pieces such as couches on the ground floor to a raised position on waterproof materials such as bricks or cinder block. Small home décor items can be packed in plastic containers and stacked off of the ground.

Get ahead of the storm and ensure that your home is hurricane ready. Make sure that the actions listed above are completed as soon as possible if a hurricane warning has been issued. For more details in the case of severe weather, refer to this link from the Red Cross.

Your safety is of the utmost importance at Neal Communities. Be sure to take care of yourself, your family and your home this hurricane season.