UPDATED: 8/28/2020

The threat of natural disasters like a tropical storm or hurricane during a pandemic is more than worrisome, its alarming. The thought of facing both at once is a little intimidating to be honest, but we will get through it, by taking the necessary steps NOW to protect you, your family, and your home.

The Atlantic hurricane season is at a full swing right now. It begins every year from June 1^st through November 30^th. Experts are calling this year an “extremely active” season. With this information on hand, you need to ask yourself, “How do I prepare for this? How can I protect my home and belongings?” Here are a few tips and ideas on preparing your home for this hurricane season.

PRE-STORM
When a major storm approaches there is a lot to be done in such a short time frame. One of the best ways to minimize damages to your home during a storm is to boarder up your windows and doors with plywood. At a minimum, you want to use exterior grade 5/8-inch plywood to help protect against strong winds and debris. Next, you’ll need a few power tools for cutting and installation purposes. My recommendation is the Makita XT449T 18V 4-Tool Combo Kit. With this purchase, you'll have all the necessary equipment to cut and install the plywood on all windows and doors. This kit also includes a LED flashlight, a perfect addition just in case for power outages. Lastly, you will need to pick up hardware like wood screws, washers, and lag screws to firmly secure the plywood.

TOP 3 COMBO KITS

DURING THE STORM
Power outages are very common during a major storm and searching for a backup generator during the middle of a busy season will be challenging. That’s why it’s best to prepare for such an emergency in advance. Question is, how to pick the right generator? By determining what’s essential to power up during a blackout. You can learn all about picking the right generator by clicking here! In my opinion, a solid purchase would be the DuroMax XP12000EH 12,000 Watt Dual Fuel Generator. Its powerful, yet versatile enough to run important appliances like (and not limited to) an electric range, refrigerator, sump pump, and of course lights. Also make sure you use appropriate extension power cords, like the DruoMax XPC10100C, and run your generator outside on a level floor, 5 feet away from your home.

 TOP 3 GENERATORS

POST-STORM

Being prepared to handle the aftermath of a major storm is equally important. Taking precautionary steps can help make recovery smoother and less stressful. Before you head outside to inspect any damages, make sure there are no downed power lines or trees leaning on power lines. Safety is top priority, so please follow all advisories provided by your local officials. After a storm, fallen or broken tree branches may pose a safety risk. Other small branches, twigs, leaves, and other debris can leave your driveway a mess. This is where a chainsaw and a leaf blower could really help you out clean up. The DeWalt DCKO667X1 60V Chainsaw and Blower Kit is a great buy. This 60-Volt power system will deliver the power you need to clean up quick and with ease.

TOP 3 CHAINSAW AND BLOWER COMBO KIT

In the midst of any kind of natural disasters, it's hard to truly think about what is needed or crucial at that very moment. So I put together a hardware supply list that can help you out beforehand. Items relatively available now that may not be available when you most need it.

Waiting for a tropical storm or hurricane to be declared puts you at a disadvantage and will hinder you to take necessary precautions. Take advantage now that you are safe at home, and establish an emergency plan with your family and find out where your local evacuation shelters are located. Prepare an emergency kit that includes bottled waters, nonperishable foods, first aid kit, and medication. Also, make sure everything you need is rapidly available to be grabbed quickly in an emergency.

And always remember…stay calm, stay positive, stay alert, and stay safe.