After moving into your new home and getting settled, you should prepare the dwelling for the event of a natural disaster. Depending on where your new home is located, you may have to follow specific preparations for occasions such as earthquakes, hurricanes or flooding. The experts at PostServicesSimplified.org offer the following tips to help protect your new place from the chaos of Mother Nature.
Window Shutters
If you live in a location that is susceptible to hurricanes or tornadoes, window shutters offer basic protection from the strong winds that can catapult debris through the windows. Some houses have the capacity for pull-down shutters that remain attached to the exterior all year round and can be pulled up after the storm has passed. PostServicesSimplified.org recommends investing in aluminum shutters that can be taken on and off when needed for a sturdy alternative to the other shutter type.
Remove Flammable Items
Dry regions that are vulnerable to fires require homeowners to remove materials and items that are highly flammable from a home’s exterior. Moving plants and shrubs from around the immediate vicinity is recommended to prevent a quick-spreading fire. The pros at PostServicesSimplified.org suggest occasionally hosing down the exterior so that the surrounding area retains moisture, making it less likely to spread fire.
Get a Draining Pump
Flood zones leave a home’s floors susceptible to large amounts of rising water. Having a pump to drain the water is recommended to keep the damage to a minimum. The team at PostServicesSimplified.org also advises raising electrical appliances and items from the ground to avoid potentially deadly shocks in the event that flooding cannot be prevented.
Secure Large Items
Whether an earthquake or a twister hits the region, securing large items inside and outside the house will help keep them from falling or flying and causing heavy damage. Bolting down appliances in the house keeps them from toppling over and crushing something or someone during an earthquake. The PostServicesSimplified.org team advises bringing in large barbecue grills into a storage house or a garage and strapping them down to avoid having them blown into the walls from high winds.
Upgrade the Roof
If you are unsure if your new home’s roof can withstand any kind of impact, it is best to upgrade it with sturdy materials made to absorb large shocks. Research the best kind of shingles or materials for different scenarios and plan to update your roof accordingly. A strong roof can help prevent debris from falling through the ceiling and causing damage to the house’s interior.
Consider Homeowner’s Insurance
Sometimes, no matter how many precautions a homeowner takes, nature takes its course and causes damage to one’s home. Obtaining homeowner’s insurance can help take care of your home and your possessions in the event of a natural disaster. Depending on state regulations and the type of insurance an individual has purchased, coverage may include the cost of repairs and replacing big ticket items like appliances.
