How to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane

August is here, which means we are entering the prime of hurricane season on Long Island. If you are looking for ways to protect your home and family the next time disaster strikes, follow these preparation tips from GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration:

Weeks before the storm:

• Formulate a plan. To be prepared for anything, you need a plan. Communicate your plan with your family, including where to meet and how to contact each other if separated. It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with your local evacuation routes.
• Stock up on supplies. Supermarkets are swamped with people before a hurricane strikes, so stock up on supplies now to avoid the last-minute frenzy. Hurricane essentials include nonperishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a radio, and a first aid kit.

Immediately before the storm:

• Secure loose objects outside. Scan your yard for loose objects that could be blown away during a hurricane, including garbage bins, gardening tools, or lawn furniture. Put these items in your shed, garage, or bring them inside to keep them safe during the storm.
• Protect your windows. Your windows pose one of the biggest dangers during a hurricane. It is not uncommon for unprotected windows to shatter and send shards of glass flying throughout your home. Stay safe by reinforcing your windows with a piece of plywood or professionally-installed storm shutters.

After the storm:

• Be patient. Recovering from a natural disaster is usually a slow and gradual process. Your town might be without power for 24 hours or more. It is important to stay calm and wait for everything to return to normal.
• Check for water damage. When you are sure the storm has passed, inspect your house for water damage. It is important to fix flooding and other problems as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from growing and spreading throughout your house.

Long Island residents don't need to look any further than GreenPro Cleaning & Restoration for their water damage restoration and mold removal needs. If you live in Nassau or Suffolk County, call us for a free quote at (631) 940-8100.