June 1st is the official start of hurricane season. As we all witnessed last year's devastating hurricane season, it only takes one storm to cause millions of dollars in damages and destruction. With the prediction of an "above average" hurricane season this year, it is crucial to prepare your home well before a hurricane or tropical storm arrives. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your home:
 
Home Inspection: Is your home ready for a natural disaster? Consider having your home inspected each year before Hurricane Season approaches to ensure your personal safety, as well as those of your home and belongings.
 
Shutters: If you hear the unfortunate news of a hurricane approaching, installing hurricane shutters to your windows and doors can be beneficial. If a window in your home is broken during a hurricane, it can expose the inside of your house to excessive winds and rain, and potentially lift the roof from below.
 
Make Your Roof Hurricane-Proof: If your home has an older roof, you should consider taking proper measures to strengthen your roof to withstand heavy winds and rain. Click here for some tips on preventing hurricane damage to your roof.
 
Clear the Yard: Hurricane winds can be extremely dangerous, and strong enough to pick up objects such as lawn chairs, garbage cans, wood, metal, bicycles, barbeque grills, etc. These winds can send objects flying into your car and home. Before a hurricane strikes, remove outdoor objects and bring them inside.
 
It is important to keep in mind, these procedures should be taken well in advance of a hurricane, not a few hours before.