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Subject: K2) What can I do to make my home/business more disaster resistant?

Contributed by Neal Dorst (HRD)

If you do not have shutters for windows and other openings in your building or reinforcement for larger doors and garage doors, then you should get some that comply with the standards in your area. If you have skylights or similar openings that are inaccessible or impossible to shutter then try replacing their coverings with shatter-resistant glass or film. Protecting the vulnerable spots in your building's cladding is the first line of defense you have in protecting your property.

Replace any missing tiles or shingles on your roof. There are some products on the market which increase roof integrity by applying a film that holds the tiles or shingles together. Replace any broken windows or doors since these are more vulnerable to giving way under stress. Obviously, repair or replace damaged storm shutters since they too are more likely to fail.

If you have not had your property evaluated for compliance with current building code standards you may want to hire a complany that specializes in this. They will be able to tell if your roof has proper hurricane ties on the joists, that the walls are secured to the foundation, and if your shutters are sufficient to protect your windows and doors. Correct any deficiencies they discover.

You might want to consider landscaping which minimizes debris or branches impacting your building. You may want to remove large trees near your home that might be brought down on it in high winds. Also choose plants that don't break easily in the wind, creating windborne hazards for you and your neighbors.

For more information you can look at these Websites for home safety information:

Last Updated : May 6, 2014

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