Avoid These Mistakes During a Seemingly Quiet Hurricane Season
Despite forecasts predicting an active hurricane season with a record-breaking number of storms, the Atlantic Ocean experienced a surprisingly quiet August. But don’t let the calm skies lull you into a false sense of security. The rest of the hurricane season still holds the potential for devastating storms. Homeowners in Naples, FL, must remain vigilant in preparing their homes and protecting their families. Here are six crucial mistakes to avoid to ensure you’re ready when the next storm strikes:
Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Even during a quiet season, keeping up with regular home maintenance is crucial. Ensuring that your property is in good condition can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems when a hurricane hits. This includes checking your roof for loose shingles, cleaning gutters and trimming trees that could become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Windows and doors should also be inspected for wear or damage. Remember, a small crack in a window can turn into a major entry point for wind and rain during a storm, causing extensive interior damage.
Delaying Hurricane Shutter Installation
If you’ve been putting off installing hurricane shutters, now’s the time to act. Don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon to start thinking about window protection. Supply chains can become strained during an active hurricane season, and installation companies are often overwhelmed with last-minute requests. By planning ahead and installing high-quality hurricane shutters now, you can avoid the stress and potential danger of trying to secure your home at the last minute.
Neglecting to Secure Outdoor Items
It’s easy to overlook the importance of securing outdoor furniture, potted plants and other loose items in your yard during a calm period. However, these items can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds during an afternoon thunderstorm or tropical storm event, causing significant damage to your property. Make it a habit to regularly secure or bring inside anything that strong winds could pick up. Even during a quiet season, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Skipping Insurance Reviews
Many homeowners in Naples, FL, forget to review their insurance policies until after a storm has caused damage. Don’t let this be you. Take the time now to review your homeowners insurance policy. Ensure that it covers storm-related damages, including wind and flood damage. Consider updating your policy if your home has increased in value or if you’ve made significant renovations. Remember, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re fully covered is invaluable when a tropical storm is bearing down.
Forgetting to Stock Up on Emergency Supplies
A calm August may have left your emergency supply kit neglected, but it’s vital to keep it well-stocked throughout the hurricane season. Ensure you have enough non-perishable food, water, medications, batteries, flashlights and other essentials to last at least a week. Don’t wait until the last minute when stores may be out of stock or when evacuation orders could make it difficult to get what you need. Preparing your kit now can make all the difference when a storm is on the way.
Overlooking the Importance of Professional Inspections
While many homeowners focus on DIY preparations, the importance of professional inspections cannot be overstated. A professional can assess the structural integrity of your home, identify potential weaknesses, and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades. Whether inspecting your roof, checking for leaks, or evaluating the effectiveness of your windows and doors, a professional inspection can provide peace of mind and ensure that your home is truly storm-ready. Consider scheduling an inspection with a trusted company like Storm Solutions, Inc to evaluate your home’s preparedness.
A quiet August doesn’t guarantee a calm conclusion to the hurricane season. Homeowners in South Florida must avoid complacency and take proactive steps to protect their property from potential storms. Contact Storm Solutions, Inc if you need hurricane-resistant door and window solutions for your home in or around Naples, FL.
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