How to Get Your Home Ready for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The best time to prepare is before a storm is even forming, when hardware stores are quiet and prices are normal.

Roof

The roof is usually the first thing to go in high winds.

• Check the straps. On a zinc or timber roof, hurricane straps should tie the rafters to the walls. If they're missing or rusted, have them fixed.
• Check the zinc. Replace rusted sheets and loose nails. Use the right roofing screws or nails, close together, especially at the edges.
• Clear gutters and drains so rainwater can flow away.

Windows and doors

• Fit hurricane shutters, or keep plywood cut to size and labelled for each window, with the screws ready.
• Check that door hinges and locks are solid.
• Seal gaps where rain can blow in.

Around the yard

• Trim trees and cut back branches that hang over the roof or power lines.
• Clear loose items like zinc, buckets, furniture and toys that could fly in strong winds.
• Clean drains and gullies near the house to reduce flooding.

Water and power

• Fill your water tank and store drinking water: about one gallon per person per day for at least a week.
• Keep a battery radio, torches and spare batteries.
• If you have a generator, service it now and never run it indoors.
• Charge phones and power banks before the storm.

Supplies

• Canned food, a manual can opener, and baby or pet food if needed
• First aid kit and enough medicine for at least two weeks
• Cash, since banks and ATMs may be down
• Garbage bags, tarpaulin and rope

Important documents

Put your land title, ID, insurance papers and birth certificates in a waterproof bag. Take photos of them and of your house and belongings for insurance claims.

Have a plan

• Know your nearest emergency shelter. ODPEM publishes shelter lists.
• Decide where your family will meet if you get separated.
• If you live near the coast, a gully or a river, be ready to leave early.

After the storm

• Stay away from downed power lines.
• Take photos of any damage before you start repairs.
• Check the roof and structure before moving back in.