There are many simple things you can do in advance to prepare your home for a possible disaster. When preparing your home for a possible disaster, there are many simple things you can do. The 12 listed below are just a few of many ways you can make your home a little more disaster proof.

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- Especially in areas prone to high winds, make sure your doors that lead outside have reliable dead bolts and tight secure hinges. Repair any split or cracks in the doors, immediately. Solid wood or hollow steel are the best materials for outside doors to be made of.

Emergency Kits- It’s always important to keep a 72-hour-kit per person in the home. 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. 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, in case of a tornado and severe storm.

Important Documents Kept in Safe- One option is to rent a safe deposit box from your Post Office. A more reliable option is to buy a fireproof home safe to keep your important documents in. One trusted family member or friend outside of the home should be given the combination. Documents to keep in your safe would include social security information, birth certificates, marriage licenses, passports, mortgage information, etc.

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 propane tanks at least 10 feet away from the home and firewood at least 30. Clutter in the home should be avoided. Fires feed off stacks of papers, boxes and even linen. 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. Glass and heavy objects that might fall should be far away from these places. breakable, heavy objects should be placed on the lower shelves. Heavy and tall objects such as book shelves, loose cabinets, tall desks, etc should be secured. Installing latches in upper cabinets 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. Reliable candles, matches, flashlights, batteries and a battery or crank powered radio should be ready for use.

Vehicles- Keeping a car in the garage is best during any severe storm 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- At least once a year, check your roof. Roofs normally go first in storms and tornadoes. Your roof should not have any 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. Severe winds and lightening can also be blocked by some types of trees. Having your trees checked annually is important. As for any loose items around your yard, it’s important to keep them put away. Things like rakes, shovels, patio equipment and even garbage cans can be used as weapons by fierce winds if they’re loose in the yard. Any existing damage to the home should be repaired before a disaster hits.

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.

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