Disaster Proof Your Home

By: Ben Tanner Click author's name for more of his/her articles

There are many simple things you can do in advance to prepare your home for a possible disaster. A few of many ways you can make your home a little more disaster proof are listed below.

Windows- One option is to purchase the appropriate wind resistant window and shutters in case of high winds. Another option is to cover windows with plywood if you know a severe storm is on its way. Positioning beds directly beneath large windows is also not recommended.

Doors- It's important to make sure your doors that lead outside have reliable dead bolts and tight secure hinges, especially in areas prone to high winds. If there are any splits or cracks in the door, repair immediately. It's best for doors that lead outside to be made of either solid wood or hollow steel.

Emergency Kits- A 72-hour kit per person in the home is recommended. These kits should include updated, age appropriate items for each individual, and kept in easy-to-access places. keeping a first aid kit in an easily accessible area is important as well. In case of a tornado or severe storm, it's important to keep a radio with batteries nearby so that you can hear what's going on, and so that you know when it's over and safe to come out.

Important Documents Kept in Safe- Renting a safe deposit box from your local Post Office is one option. Buying a fireproof home safe to keep your important documents in is a more reliable option. Give the combination to at least one trusted family member or friend outside of the home. Social security information, birth certificates, marriage licenses, passports, mortgage information, etc are some of the documents that should be kept safe.

Fire Proof- It's very important to keep at least one fire extinguisher in your home, in addition to checking and updating fire alarms once a year. Keep all firewood at least 30 feet away from the home and propane tanks at least 10. Clutter in the home should be avoided. Stacks of papers, boxes and even linen create a strong environment for fires. Extension cords and power bars should be kept to a minimum and never overload outlets.

Earthquake Proof- The safe places in each room should be known by you and your family members. These areas are away from glass and heavy objects that might fall. Place breakable, heavy objects on lower shelves. Heavy and tall objects such as book shelves, loose cabinets, tall desks, etc should be secured. Latches are also available to install in upper cabinets that will prevent them from swinging open.

Gas Shut-Off Wrench- Turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest when you know a storm is approaching, or after an earthquake. Just prior to the storm, turn off the utilities and all gas. Use reliable candles, matches, flashlights, batteries and a battery or crank powered radio.

Vehicles- During any severe storm keeping a car in the garage is best as they can be thrown into things if they're not safe in an enclosed area.

Pet Shelter- If a pet's shelter is in the backyard, be sure to include your pet in your emergency planning. Even for tough winds and rain pet shelters should have an enclosed, waterproof area where the animal can go to seek shelter.

Roof- Check your roof at least once a year. In storms and tornadoes, roofs normally go first. Make sure no your roof has no loose shingles. Keeping your roof protected is also part of keeping the entire house protected.

Yard- Trees often fall into houses which usually causes most of the damage to the house, during severe storms. Other trees can protect a house from severe winds and lightening. Having your trees checked annually is important. As for any loose items around your yard, it's important to keep them put away. Rakes, shovels, patio equipment and even garbage cans can also be used as weapons by fierce winds if they're loose in the yard. It's also very important to repair any existing damage to the home before a disaster occurs.

Food & Water- For nearly any type of disaster situation it's important to store drinking water and water for flushing toilet and taking baths in your home. If you know when a severe storm is approaching, fill the bathtub, pots and clean pails with water and set in a secure place.