Storm-proofing your home: Essential tips for hurricane preparedness

Learn how to protect your home from hurricanes with these essential tips on tree maintenance, stormwater system care and securing outdoor objects.

Transcript

00:00So many people, you know, lose power largely because trees are not pruned

00:04properly or they're not planted in the correct location. One key to

00:08minimizing damage during a hurricane is choosing the right trees for your

00:11landscape. Experts recommend planting larger trees away from your home, power

00:16lines and other structures to reduce the risk of branches or even entire

00:20trees falling on your property. Regular pruning and maintenance of trees is

00:24also vital trees that have large overextended limbs that, you know,

00:31reach out over the roof line of a home are somewhat at risk of breaking. While

00:37location is key, planting trees in groups or masses can also enhance their

00:41wind resistance. They can buffer each other. The roots are intertwined. Uh,

00:46the limbs in some cases, you know, they're together. Uh, so planting in

00:51clusters makes a whole lot more sense. Don't leave branches or debris in the

00:55yard. They can become deadly missiles during intense winds. Don't forget to

01:00secure other loose objects in your yard or bring them into the garage. It's

01:04essential to protect your stormwater systems, clear gutters and storm drains

01:08of any debris and turn off your irrigation system a few days before a

01:12storm. We find that the pre saturation of the soil

01:16adds injury or insult to all the rain that's going to come. Ultimately,

01:21preparation is key to reducing the impact of a hurricane or severe weather

01:25event on your home. Pay attention to the weather. You know what the risk

01:29factors are. You be vigilant and you prepare