When facing an imminent natural disaster—whether a hurricane, wildfire, flood, or severe storm—every second counts. While evacuation and safety should always come first, if you have a brief window before impact, targeted actions can reduce potential damage to your home and minimize long-term repair costs. Here’s a focused, practical guide for homeowners who find themselves with limited but valuable time.
1. Prioritize Exterior Vulnerabilities
Start outside. Secure or store loose items like patio furniture, grills, garden tools, or decorations. These can become projectiles in high winds, posing a danger to windows, siding, and even neighboring properties.
Next, examine roof drainage. Ensure gutters and downspouts are free of debris. In a storm or heavy rainfall, clogged gutters often result in roof edge rot, siding deterioration, and basement seepage.
If flooding is forecasted, sandbag vulnerable entry points such as basement windows, low-lying doors, or garage thresholds. Sandbags should be stacked in a staggered, brick-like pattern for optimal coverage.
2. Shut Down and Shield Critical Systems
Turn off propane tanks and unplug non-essential electrical appliances. If flooding or storm surge is likely, shut off the main electrical breaker to prevent fire hazards. Elevate appliances or HVAC units with available blocks or sturdy platforms if located in low-lying areas.
If you have time, photograph key home systems like your breaker box, water heater, and HVAC units for insurance documentation later.
3. Interior Fortification
Close all interior doors. This may sound minor, but compartmentalizing airflow in high-wind scenarios reduces pressure on structural framing. Reinforce vulnerable windows with plywood if pre-cut panels are on hand. Avoid duct tape “X”s—they do little to prevent breakage and waste precious time.
Move irreplaceable documents, heirlooms, or electronics to higher shelves or a second floor if you have one. Use plastic storage bins to create a temporary waterproof barrier around valuables.
4. Check Water Intrusion Points
Quickly inspect areas where water typically finds entry: basement stairwells, window wells, chimney flashing, and foundation cracks. Seal minor gaps with quick-drying caulk or hydraulic cement. For dryer vent covers and soffits, use temporary covers like vent shields or plywood cutouts if wind-driven rain is expected.
5. Final Walkthrough and Documentation
Take a final walkthrough with your phone. Record a video, room by room, including closets and storage spaces. Narrate as you go. This visual record will help if you need to file a claim later and may catch small vulnerabilities you missed during the rush.
When seconds are precious, informed action is your best line of defense. While you can’t disaster-proof your home entirely, even small, well-chosen interventions can make a measurable difference.
