Galveston County, TX

Make a Plan to Safeguard Your Home in Galveston County

Residents of Galveston County are familiar with the unpredictability and destructive potential of hurricanes. With the threat of these powerful storms always looming during the Atlantic hurricane season, it's essential to be well-prepared to safeguard your home and loved ones. In this article, we will walk you through a comprehensive guide on how to protect your home before hurricane landfall, covering crucial steps such as securing windows, outdoor items, photographing possessions, turning off utilities, and acquiring the right insurance coverage.

Acquiring Adequate Insurance: Protecting Your Investments

Insurance is your safety net in the aftermath of a hurricane. Contact your insurance agent in advance and ensure you have the following types of insurance coverage:

Wind Insurance: Covers damage caused by high winds, such as broken windows and roof damage.

Flood Insurance: Standard homeowners' insurance usually doesn't cover flood damage. Obtain a separate flood insurance policy, as flooding is a common occurrence during hurricanes.

Home Insurance: Comprehensive home insurance can cover various damages, including structural damage from falling trees and wind-driven debris.

Fire Insurance: Fires can break out due to downed power lines or other storm-related incidents. Make sure fire damage is covered.

Auto Insurance: Park your vehicles in a safe place and ensure your auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage for hurricane-related damage.

Plywood for Windows: Fortifying Your Home's Weak Points

Windows are vulnerable points during hurricanes, as strong winds and flying debris can shatter them, causing extensive damage to your home's interior. To protect your windows, consider boarding them up with plywood.

Here's how:

Measure and Cut: Measure the dimensions of each window and cut plywood pieces accordingly. Make sure the pieces fit securely, leaving no gaps.

Pre-Drill Holes: Pre-drill holes in the plywood for easy installation.

Secure Plywood: Attach the plywood to the window frames using sturdy screws or bolts.  Hurricane clips for windows are also a good solution for securing plywood and may be available at hardware stores.

Securing Outdoor Items: Preventing Debris and Damage

Loose outdoor items, such as patio furniture, gardening tools, and decorations, can become dangerous projectiles during a hurricane. To minimize potential damage, bring all lightweight outdoor items indoors before the storm hits and store indoors. If certain items cannot be moved indoors, secure them with heavy-duty straps or chains to prevent them from being blown away.

Photographing Possessions: Documenting Your Belongings

In case your home sustains damage, having a visual record of your possessions can greatly assist in insurance claims. Take clear photographs or videos of each room, capturing valuable items, electronics, furniture, and appliances. Keep digital copies of purchase receipts and any professional appraisals for high-value items.

Turning Off Utilities: Minimizing Hazards

Turning off utilities before leaving your home can prevent further damage and hazards.

Here's how to do it safely:

Gas: Locate the main gas valve and turn it off. Only a professional should turn it back on.

Electricity: Switch off the main circuit breaker in your electrical panel to prevent electrical fires.

Water: Turn off the main water valve to avoid flooding from potential pipe breaks.

As a resident of Galveston County, taking proactive measures before a hurricane can significantly minimize the potential devastation to your property and loved ones. By boarding up windows, securing outdoor items, documenting possessions, turning off utilities, and acquiring comprehensive insurance coverage, you're better equipped to weather the storm and recover more swiftly in its aftermath. Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and stay safe. Preparedness saves lives.