The end of the summer means kids are heading back to school, Labor Day trips are being planned and pumpkin spice is on the minds of many. But, it is also prime time for severe weather. With temperatures fluctuating and moisture filling the air, storms and tornados are common during the end of the summer. Just look at Louisiana. And, take a look at Michigan where tornados barely missed downtown Grand Rapids. Bad weather can happen anywhere, and it pays to be prepared.
While there’s not much you can do if a strong tornado bears down on your home, there are simple things you can do to practice simple home safety and secure your home against strong winds and the weaker of the tornados.
Board Your Windows
It’s a common misconception that leaving windows open during a storm can create a wind tunnel through your home which will minimize pressure and damage. But, leaving your windows open only allows debris to fly in and can also pressurize your home. So, do the opposite of opening them, add an extra layer.
If you live in an area where extreme weather is common, keep a pre-cut and fitted board handy so that you can cover your window at the first sign of adverse weather. Products like PlyLox are also options and as long as they are prepared before, are a great option for quickly securing your windows during a storm.
Keep Your Yard Clean
Always keeping your yard free of debris like tree branches and yard tools can protect people and your home when bad weather strikes. That weed trimmer from Sunday’s yard work can look pretty dangerous flying through the air toward your window during Monday’s storm. Those branches you didn’t have time to clean up can scratch cars, break windows and even harm people seeking shelter if they are picked up by strong winds. Even kid’s toys can do damage flying through the air at 75 miles an hour.
Always keeping your yard clear of debris will give you one less thing to worry about when bad weather hits. And, you won’t have to worry about replacing anything that was left out.
Secure Your Garage
According to the National Storm Shelter Association, the garage door is the weakest link in your home. Once that gets blown away, the pressurization inside your home will allow your roof to be easily blown off. So, you can use a variety of kits to create braces that can be fitted and put together before hand and then put in place in a matter of minutes before severe weather. It’s also advisable to purchases windowless garage doors and to note the speed of winds they can withstand before purchasing.
Nightlock Your Front Door
While the Nightlock Door Brace isn’t tested in severe weather, it stands to reason that if it can withstand someone kicking it in, it could help brace your door against extreme winds. It also doesn’t hurt, if you are located somewhere where tornados or hurricanes often hit, to buy a door specifically meant to withstand gale force winds. But, if you just need some extra security against the tough winds of a sudden storm, Nightlock can offer an extra barrier of protection.
It can also secure your home against crime activity that can occur during bad weather. When people are focused on evacuating or hiding in basements or storm cellars, thieves will often see a chance to strike. So, if you are leaving your home, use Nightlock to secure your front doors and exit out the garage. Or, use it on a basement door to add an extra layer of protection while taking shelter. But, have a plan, as it does have to be installed prior to use.
Please, keep in mind that all of these tips are to be performed only in advance of a storm. If you are worried you don’t have time, seek shelter first. Protect yourselves and your family before your home. But, if you have plenty of warning, these tips can hopefully help keep both you and your home safe.
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