Here in Texas, we know all too well the power and unpredictability of Mother Nature. Hurricane season in Texas typically runs from June 1st to November 30th, and it’s crucial to be prepared for whatever the weather may throw our way. While you can’t control the storms, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your home and business. Let’s dive into some essential preparation tips for hurricane season in Texas.
Residential Hurricane Readiness
Your home is your haven, and keeping it safe during a hurricane is a top priority. Here are some key steps to take:
- Stock Up on Supplies: Create an emergency kit with non-perishable food, bottled water, first-aid supplies, medications, a battery-powered radio, and a flashlight. Don’t forget a manual can opener and a supply of cash in case of power outages.
- Trim Those Trees: Overhanging branches pose a serious threat during a hurricane. Trim or remove any branches that could fall on your home or power lines.
- Secure Your Outdoor Furniture and Decorations: Patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Bring them inside or secure them firmly to the ground.
- Board Up Your Windows: While window tinting offers some additional protection, boarding up your windows with plywood provides the most secure barrier against flying debris.
Window Tinting: An Added Layer of Protection
While window tinting isn’t a replacement for boarding up your windows, it can offer some additional benefits during a hurricane:
- Shattered Glass Protection: High winds can cause windows to break, creating a safety hazard. Window tinting can help hold shattered glass together, minimizing the risk of injuries from flying shards.
- Reduced Wind Pressure: Window tinting can help mitigate some of the wind pressure on your windows, potentially reducing the chance of them breaking altogether.
- UV Protection: Even during a storm, UV rays can be damaging. Window tinting offers continued UV protection for your furniture and belongings.
Remember: Window tinting is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to hurricane preparedness. Always follow official recommendations and prioritize boarding up your windows for maximum protection.
Ensuring Your Business Weathers the Storm
Your business is your livelihood, so ensuring its safety during hurricane season in Texas is critical. Here’s what you can do:
- Develop an Emergency Plan: Create a detailed plan that outlines evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and the steps employees should take to secure the building.
- Back Up Your Data: Protect your valuable business data by backing it up to a secure cloud storage system or a physical off-site location.
- Secure Your Inventory: Move important inventory to higher ground or secure it with straps and pallets to prevent damage from water or wind.
- Protect Your Windows: Just like with your home, consider boarding up windows in your business for maximum protection. Window tinting can also offer some additional benefits, as discussed earlier.
Additional Tips for Both Home and Business
Here are some additional tips to consider:
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather reports closely and stay updated on official advisories and evacuation orders. Having a battery-powered radio or a NOAA weather radio is crucial during power outages.
- Fill Up Your Gas Tank: Gas shortages can occur after a hurricane. Make sure your vehicle has a full tank to facilitate potential evacuation or emergency travel.
- Document Your Property: Take pictures and videos of your home and business interior and exterior. This documentation can be invaluable for insurance claims after a storm.
- Don’t Forget Your Pets: Prepare an emergency kit for your pets, including food, water, medications, and a crate or carrier.
Hurricane season in Texas doesn’t have to be a time of fear. By being proactive and taking the necessary steps to prepare, you can significantly increase your chances of weathering the storm and minimizing damage to your home and business. Remember, even small preparations can make a big difference. Be prepared, stay safe, and have a plan!
