The better job we do securing our yards the less damage we are likely to experience. High winds can pick up anything and throw it like a temper tantrum.
Has a young girl I watched as the hurricane wind played with a truck tire; picking it up and dropping it down, scooting it forward a few feet. Finally, the wind picked that tire up on its side and rolled it down the field in front of our house. If the wind can do that to a tire, imagine what it can do to your patio furniture.
I have gathered a list of tasks to get the job done.
Window Protection: A Planned Investment.
Research. Purchase. Install. I know you can find something that will fit your budget, because we did. But to help you get started. Look at storm shutters. There are metal ones, and ballistic cloth. Plywood is an emergency option but be realistic: it will not stop a tree coming through your window.
My father was born in 1927. When he was young a storm blew through in the middle of the night. It started with a lot of noise. My grandmother wanted to get up and check the boys (she had 6 sons). My grandfather reached his big arm across her and said “Lay down woman, you’re not going anywhere”. She replied, “But the boys!” His response “The boys are fine.” They went back to sleep. The next morning, neither one of them could get out of bed. A pine tree trunk had been forced through their cabin wall, just inches from their bodies. Protect your openings.
Decluttering The Yard:
Look over your property. Anything that is not tied down must be secured.
- Projectiles: Bring in bird feeders & baths, the hanging plants, and the garden gnomes.
- The Big Stuff: If you can’t fit the grill or the patio table in the garage, chain them down. (Be creative.)
- Vehicles: Don’t leave your car under a tree. If you don’t have a garage, move it to the most open area possible, away from power lines and large oaks. And please, fill the gas tank. If you have to move after the storm, you don’t want to be hunting for a station with a working generator.
Power and Light: Staying Safe in the Dark
When the power goes out – and it will – you need to be ready to work and see safely.
- Generator Safety: This is the big one. Your generator must stay outside, at least 20 feet from the house. Carbon monoxide is a silent, odorless killer. Never run it in a garage or under a carport.
- Battery-Operated Tools: Make sure your drills and saws are fully charged. If a branch goes through a fence or blocks a door, you’ll need your tools ready to go immediately without needing a plug.
- Rechargeable Gear: Skip the candles (fire hazard!) Use rechargeable flashlights and hurricane lamps. Test them now while the sun is out.
Quick Tips:
While you’re out there moving the truck tires and the lawn chairs, take “Before” pictures of your home and yard. If you have to file a claim later, you’ll want proof of how well you maintained the property before the wind stated throwing its tantrum.
For more official guidance, please check out Senator Rick Scott Hurricane Preparedness page.
If you missed the first part of this series, catch up here: Part 1 – The Pantry Anchor and Water Prep
Faith and Beauty:
Preparation isn’t just about the house; it’s about taking care of yourself, too. When the power is out and you’re working in the yard, don’t forget your skin. A good moisturizer can do a lot to boost your mood. My Avon shop is always open for those little self-care treats that help keep the stress levels down during storm season. Visit Diane’s Boutique here.
Isaiah 43: 2-3 is a promise from God that can, if we allow, steady our souls in the midst of the storms of life.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk in the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame kindle you. For I am Jehovah your God, the Holy One of Isreal, your Savior.
Have a beautiful week,
Diane | FreshMercyEveryMorning.com | Faith, Home, and Beauty from the Heart of Florida