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Daytona Beach Lawyers > Blog > Personal Injury > Is a Hurricane Bearing Down? Take These Steps

Is a Hurricane Bearing Down? Take These Steps

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Most people have a vague sense that they need to board up their windows when a hurricane is approaching and before they leave town. But what else do you need to do? Getting your home readied for a massive hurricane is a lengthy process, but you should take these steps immediately.

Clean Your Yard

Debris in the yard can be tossed about during a hurricane and is a big source of damage to homes. Pick up loose tiles or bricks, fallen tree branches, and anything else that could become airborne.

Store Grills and Yard Furniture

These items can also be thrown around by a hurricane. You need a plan for storing them. You can put them in a garage (if you have one) or store them in your home. If you have a pool, you can store patio future by throwing it in the water.

If something is so large it can’t be put inside—such as a giant picnic table—you need to anchor it to the ground as best you can. Think about chaining large objects to something solid.

Install a Sump Pump

You must be prepared for flooding, which can cause considerable damage in hurricanes. A sump pump in the basement will pump out water so it does not accumulate. If you have one already, you should check to make sure that it is working and get it repaired if it is not.

Seal Cracks in the Walls

Of course you should board up windows, but that will really only protect the glass. You also need to be worried about water coming in through cracks in the wall. Check the following areas:

  • Window sills
  • Where pipes enter the home
  • Electrical outlets

You should caulk and seal all cracks.

Protect Furniture from Water Damage

Flooding can destroy any furniture, like your sofa and kitchen table. You should protect your furniture by taking some simple steps:

  • Elevate furniture, if you can. You can put concrete blocks under furniture to elevate it.

  • Cover furniture with plastic. Make sure the plastic fully covers the furniture in the event water leaks from the roof.

  • Move lighter furniture to the second floor, if you have one.

You should have already documented the furniture you have in the event that it is damaged. If you haven’t already created a home inventory, take pictures or video of your furniture.

Keep Pets Safe

Keeping your pets safe provides immediate peace of mind. It is just one less thing you need to worry about during a storm. If you are leaving town, make sure the shelter or motel you are staying at accepts pets.

You will also need to have sufficient food and water for your pet. Huffington Post recommends that you have at least 7 days’ worth. You will also need a portable litter box for pets that use one.

If you are not leaving town, then invite your pets inside. Leaving them outside chained is a disaster and will probably lead to a painful death.

Bundza & Rodriguez is a Leading Property Damage Law Firm

Our attorneys at Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. in Daytona Beach hurricane damage lawyers have helped many people with disputes following natural disasters. Reach out to our team today, 386-252-5170, to schedule a free consultation.

Resource:

huffpost.com/entry/keep-pets-safe-hurricane-florence_n_5b995e4be4b0511db3e8ac4e

https://www.daytonalawyers.com/homeowner-sues-insurance-company-for-failing-to-cover-hurricane-damage/

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