The recent effects of Hurricane Beryl have underscored the importance of staying prepared during hurricane season. As the peak months for storm activity approach, taking the necessary steps to protect your home and family are now more critical than ever. The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and NWS (National Weather Service) have predicted well above-normal hurricane activity for 2024, making it essential to continue reinforcing your home and updating your emergency plans to stay prepared. Here's how we advise homeowners to prepare even after experiencing a storm:
- Assess and Repair Damages
- Inspect Your Home: Encourage homeowners to thoroughly inspect their homes for any damage caused by Hurricane Beryl, including roof, windows, and structural integrity.
- Make Necessary Repairs: Address any damages promptly to strengthen the home's defenses against future storms. This might include fixing broken windows, repairing roof shingles, or reinforcing garage doors.
- Update Emergency Plans and Kits
- Review Your Emergency Plan: Revisit and update your family’s emergency plan. Consider any challenges faced during the last storm and adjust the plan accordingly.
- Restock Emergency Kits: Ensure that emergency kits are fully stocked with essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, batteries, and important documents.
- Check and Upgrade Insurance Coverage
- Review Insurance Policies: Reassess your homeowner's insurance and flood insurance policies. Make sure your coverage is adequate and understand what is and isn't covered.
- Document Assets: Update your inventory of personal belongings with photos or videos for insurance purposes, especially if any new items were purchased after the storm.
- Enhance Home Protection Measures
- Install Storm Shutters or Impact-Resistant Windows: If not already in place, consider adding storm shutters or upgrading to impact-resistant windows.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Reiterate the importance of securing or storing outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that can become projectiles in high winds.
- Trim Trees and Clean Gutters: Keep trees trimmed and clear gutters to prevent damage from falling branches or clogged drainage systems.
- Stay Informed and Prepared
- Monitor Weather Updates: Continue to monitor local weather forecasts and alerts. Staying informed can provide valuable time to take necessary precautions.
- Know Your Evacuation Zone: Ensure you know your evacuation zone and routes, and have a plan for where to go if an evacuation order is issued. View the 2024 Hurricane Evacuation Zone Map for Houston HERE.
- Community and Neighborhood Preparedness
- Coordinate with Neighbors: Encourage neighbors to share resources and support each other, especially in checking on vulnerable residents or those with special needs.
- Join or Form Community Groups: Consider joining or forming a community emergency response team to collectively prepare and respond to future storms.
- Mental and Emotional Well-being
- Address Stress and Anxiety: Acknowledge the emotional toll of going through a hurricane and encourage seeking support if needed. Resources like counseling or community support groups can be helpful.
By taking these steps, homeowners can better protect their homes and families from future storms. Remind your community that preparation is an ongoing process, and being proactive can make a significant difference in safety and peace of mind.
If you have experienced damage from Hurricane Beryl or need assistance with repairs, please reach out to The Behrens Real Estate Group for a list of trusted service providers who can help you get back on track.
