Preparing for Tropical Storms: A Guide | Lafferty Hurricane Protection

Prepare Your Home Before the Storm

Tropical storms pose a significant threat to homes and communities, with their powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and potential for flooding. Being proactive and adequately preparing your home for tropical storms is essential to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your family. In this comprehensive guide, Lafferty Hurricane Protection provides valuable insights and practical tips on how to prepare your home for tropical storms.

Understanding Tropical Storms

Tropical storms, characterized by strong winds and heavy rains, can lead to various hazards such as flooding, storm surges, and high winds. Being informed about tropical storms and hurricanes in your region is the first step in preparing your home for potential impacts. Stay updated with local weather forecasts, hurricane warnings, and evacuation plans provided by authorities.

Creating a Preparedness Plan

1. Stay Informed:

Keep a close eye on weather updates from reliable sources. Familiarize yourself with the terminology used, such as tropical storm watches and warnings, and understand the potential risks associated with each.

2. Evacuation Plan:

Know the evacuation routes in your area and have a plan in place for where you and your family will go if evacuation becomes necessary. Consider the needs of pets and any family members with special requirements when planning.

3. Emergency Kit:

Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential items such as non-perishable food, water, medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and personal hygiene items. Ensure that your kit is easily accessible and kept up to date.

4. Secure Important Documents:

Keep important documents such as identification, insurance policies, medical records, and property deeds in a waterproof and portable container. In the event of evacuation, having these documents readily available is crucial.

5. Communication Plan:

Establish a communication plan with family members and loved ones. Designate a point of contact outside the affected area who can serve as a central communication hub. This helps ensure that everyone is accounted for and safe.

Home Preparation Tips

1. Inspect and Reinforce Roofing:

Have your roof inspected regularly to identify and address any weaknesses. Reinforce vulnerable areas to prevent water intrusion. Consider impact-resistant roofing materials for added protection.

2. Secure Windows and Doors:

Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against high winds and flying debris. Reinforce garage doors to prevent them from collapsing during storms. Ensure that windows and doors have proper seals to prevent water infiltration.

3. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items:

Trim branches and limbs that could potentially fall onto your home during a storm. Secure outdoor furniture, lawn equipment, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.

4. Check and Clean Gutters:

Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to allow for proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on the roof, increasing the risk of leaks and water damage.

5. Elevate Electrical Systems:

Elevate electrical systems, including outlets and circuit breakers, above potential flood levels. Consider hiring a professional to assess and make necessary adjustments to your home's electrical components.

6. Invest in Flood Barriers:

If your home is in a flood-prone area, consider investing in flood barriers or sandbags to create a barrier against rising water levels. Elevate appliances and valuable items to minimize potential flood damage.

7. Test Backup Power Sources:

Ensure that backup power sources, such as generators, are in good working condition. Test them periodically to confirm they are ready for use in case of a power outage.

8. Inspect and Reinforce Entry Points:

Check all entry points, including doors and windows, for vulnerabilities. Reinforce them with storm-resistant materials and ensure that locks are in proper working order.

9. Install Sump Pumps:

If your home is susceptible to flooding, consider installing sump pumps in the basement or lower levels. Test them regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly.

10. Elevate and Waterproof Appliances:

Elevate appliances such as water heaters and HVAC systems to prevent potential flood damage. Install backflow valves in plumbing to prevent sewage backup.

Before the Storm

1. Secure Outdoor Items:

Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds. Store items in a garage or secure them with heavy-duty straps.

2. Trim Trees and Branches:

Trim trees and branches that could pose a risk of falling onto your home or power lines during the storm. Prune overhanging branches to reduce the risk of damage.

3. Check Emergency Kit:

Ensure that your emergency kit is stocked with essential items and is easily accessible. Check expiration dates on food and medications and replace items as needed.

4. Review Evacuation Plan:

Review your evacuation plan with family members and confirm the location where you will seek shelter if evacuation becomes necessary. Follow any guidance or evacuation orders from local authorities.

5. Fuel and Test Generators:

Ensure that generators are fueled and in good working condition. Test them to confirm they are ready to provide backup power in case of an outage.

6. Secure Important Documents:

Double-check that important documents are stored in a waterproof container and are easily transportable. Keep them in a safe and accessible location.

7. Charge Electronic Devices:

Charge cell phones, laptops, and other electronic devices. Consider investing in portable chargers or power banks to ensure you have a reliable power source during an outage.

8. Stay Informed:

Stay tuned to weather updates and official announcements from local authorities. Follow evacuation orders and other directives to ensure your safety.

During the Storm

1. Stay Indoors:

Once the storm begins, stay indoors and away from windows. Seek shelter in a designated safe area within your home, such as a basement or an interior room without windows.

2. Monitor Weather Updates:

Continuously monitor weather updates through a battery-powered weather radio or other reliable sources. Be aware of changing conditions and follow any additional instructions from local authorities.

3. Avoid Candles:

Use battery-powered flashlights instead of candles to avoid fire hazards. Keep a supply of batteries on hand to ensure your flashlights remain operational.

4. Stay Away from Windows:

Avoid standing near windows during the storm, as high winds and flying debris could pose a risk. Stay in the safest part of your home and away from exterior walls.

5. Charge Devices:

Preserve the charge on electronic devices by using them sparingly. In case of a power outage, conserve battery life for essential communication and updates.

After the Storm

1. Wait for the All-Clear:

Wait for official announcements indicating that the storm has passed and it is safe to venture outside. Avoid going outdoors until local authorities provide the all-clear.

2. Inspect for Damage:

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home for any damage. Check for roof leaks, water infiltration, and structural damage. If you suspect gas leaks or electrical issues, contact professionals immediately.

3. Document Damage:

Take photographs or videos of any storm-related damage to your property. This documentation can be useful when filing insurance claims.

4. Be Cautious of Floodwaters:

If your area experienced flooding, be cautious when returning home. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they may contain hidden hazards or contaminants.

5. Check for Gas Leaks:

If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact the gas company or emergency services. Do not use electrical appliances or switches until it is deemed safe.

6. Contact Insurance:

Contact your insurance provider to report any damage and initiate the claims process. Provide them with the documentation and information needed for a timely resolution.

7. Restore Power Safely:

If you evacuated and return to a home without power, follow proper procedures for restoring power. Check appliances and electrical systems for any signs of damage before use.

8. Clean Up Debris:

Safely clean up any debris or fallen branches around your property. Exercise caution and use appropriate safety gear when handling debris.

9. Follow Local Guidelines:

Adhere to any guidelines or recommendations provided by local authorities during the post-storm recovery period. This may include curfews, road closures, or restrictions.

Preparing your home for tropical storms is a proactive measure that can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure the safety of your family. Lafferty Hurricane Protection is committed to providing valuable resources and solutions to help homeowners safeguard their properties. By staying informed, creating a preparedness plan, and implementing practical home preparation tips, you can enhance the resilience of your home in the face of tropical storms. Remember, preparedness is key, and taking these steps can make a substantial difference in protecting your home and loved ones during challenging weather events.

Back To Articles

What our clients say

Building Trust One Review at a Time

Great company and quality work!

Nick Batista

Valued Customer

Great price and great work. Am very happy with the business.

Barb Yang

Valued Customer

Great price and the installation technician did an outstanding job.

Samuel Arias

Valued Customer

"We are very satisfied with our new fence and work done by Lafferty Aluminum.  Quality, professionalism, and reliability working with Lafferty has been very good and I am happy we chose them."

Tony R

Valued Customer

"Lafferty was one of the easiest and smoothest company's to work with.  We are building our home and these guys were so customer friendly, answered all our questions, was available to take our call if we had questions."

R. Morris

Valued Customer

"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked.   We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"

Norman Danella

Valued Customer

"Lafferty did a fantastic job from start to finish on the patio pavers and aluminum screening. They completed the project on time, and perhaps even a little ahead of schedule!"

Jennifer Rinehart

Valued Customer

"I couldn't be happier with the work performed by Lafferty.  They replaced my original screen house in February in a professional and timely manner.  I would highly recommend them for your screen enclosure needs."

Mike Barbagallo

Valued Customer
Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates
Icon - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates
Our SERVICE Areas

Areas we gladly serve

  • Palm Bay
  • Melbourne
  • Melbourne Beach
  • Titusville
  • Grant
  • Valkaria
  • Cocoa
  • Melbourne Village
  • Merritt Island
  • Cocoa Beach
  • Satellite Beach
  • Cape Canaveral
  • Viera
  • Cocoa West
  • Fellsmere
  • Palm Shores
  • Sebastian
  • Vero
  • Vero Beach
  • Indian River Shores
  • Winter Beach
  • Vero Beach South
  • Gifford
  • Wabasso
  • Indialantic
  • Rockledge
  • West Melbourne
  • Viera West
  • Florida Ridge
  • Roseland
Contact us

Get in touch today

We're excited to learn more about your needs and provide you with a personalized quote. Please fill out the form, and our team will get back to you with a detailed estimate to kickstart your project.

Check - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

Thank you

Thanks for reaching out. We will get back to you soon.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.