Securing the Interior of Your Home Against Natural Disasters
A home tells a story. Filled with your personal touches and your individual sense of style, it may also serve as the setting for some of your fondest memories. You have likely decorated your home with personal possessions, and hopefully, you have been able to purchase an appropriate insurance policy to ensure their safety. You may have even invested in valuable natural disaster insurance for added protection.
But, even with full insurance coverage, the emotional value of some items simply can't be replaced. That's why it's important to check that the interior of your home is prepared for a natural disaster as well. Consider preventative home additions to further protect your most prized possessions from adverse weather.
Preventing Excessive Earthquake Damage
During an earthquake, the biggest risk to your safety comes from falling objects. Appliances, furnishings, electronics, valuables and other possessions can shake out of place, creating a potential hazard for you and your family. Here are a few tips on how to prevent excessive indoor damage from an earthquake:
- Secure Heavy Electronics
- Anchor Large Appliances
- Reinforce Hanging Objects
- Install Latches on Drawers and Cabinets
Preventing Excessive Flood Damage
A flood can happen at any time, in any climate. Even without rain, flooding can be caused by any overwhelmed or clogged water source, or even by an outdated drainage system. Just a few inches of water can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, especially if many of your valuables sit on floor-level. You may want to consider protecting your belongings from excessive flood damage by doing the following:
- Elevate Electronics and Appliances
- Seal Any Interior Cracks
- Unclog Pipes Regularly
- Monitor Your Sump Pump
- Secure Any Interior Fuel Tanks
Preventing Excessive Ice and Snow Damage
Severe ice and snow can damage your home inside and out. Freezing conditions can burst pipes, flood homes and interfere with electronic equipment. In extreme conditions, ice and snow can lead to falling trees and structural collapse. Prepare your home for winter weather by taking the following steps:
- Trickle Faucets to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
- Drain Water from Hoses and Pool Lines
- Seal Interior Cracks to Prevent Leaks
- Maintain Warm Airflow to Indoor Pipes
- Consider an Alterative Heat Source
Preventing Hurricane, Tornado and Strong Wind Damage
Protecting your home from wind and water damage is very important. Either element can damage your home beyond repair if the structure is not properly reinforced. High winds, hurricanes, and tornados can damage windows and doors, allowing water and debris to damage your possessions even further. Consider the following preventative measures to help minimize your damage should these disasters strike your area:
- Inspect the Condition of Door Hinges
- Install Deadbolts in Entry Doors
- Strengthen Double-Entry Doors with Bolts
- Reinforce Garage Doors with Metal Bracing
- Protect Windows with Storm Shutters
When considering reinforcing your home against natural disasters, don't forget to protect your home's exterior as well. Learn more about structural reinforcement on our Reinforcing Your Home Against Natural Disasters page.