Hurricane season (June 1 – November 30) can be a daunting time for homeowners in Maryland. Although our state isn’t as susceptible as those farther south, storm effects from hurricanes moving up the East Coast are felt in Maryland almost every year, most often in August and September. Maryland experiences brushes with hurricanes, which are defined as coming within 50 miles of the coast, about once every 15 years.
With the potential for high winds, heavy rain, and flooding, it's crucial to take proactive steps to protect your home and family. As experts in the field of loss restoration, we at St. Mary’s Roofing want to ensure that you're well-prepared to face the storm. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you safeguard your home during hurricane season.
Preventative home maintenance: The best time to prepare for a storm is before it hits. Take these proactive measures to protect your home so it is ready to withstand the elements and help minimize damage:
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against a hurricane. Have a qualified roofing contractor inspect your roof for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose or missing shingles and damaged flashing, to prevent potential leaks.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Trees and branches can become dangerous projectiles during high winds. Trim any that hang over your roof to minimize the risk of damage.
- Secure Loose Shingles and Tiles: Replace any that are loose or missing to prevent them from becoming detached during the storm.
- Keep Gutters and Drains Clear: Ensure that your gutters, downspouts, and storm drains are free of debris to allow for proper water flow and minimize the risk of flooding.
- Remove Dead or Weak Trees: These can easily fall during a storm and cause significant damage. Remove any that pose a risk.
Create an Emergency Kit and Family Plan - Being prepared with supplies and an emergency plan during hurricanes is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your family. It provides a clear strategy for communication, evacuation, and obtaining essential supplies, which will reduce panic and confusion during the storm.
With a well-prepared plan, you can minimize the risk of injury and property damage, guarantee quick access to vital resources, and facilitate a faster, more efficient recovery process.
- Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, tools, pet food, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget to keep important documents and cash in a waterproof container.
- Plan for Evacuation: Establish a meeting place that everyone knows how to get to in the event you need to leave home. Know your evacuation routes and have a map in case you need to use an alternative route. Be sure to keep your vehicle’s gas tank full and make arrangements for pets as well.
- Family Communication Plan: Communication is vital during a hurricane. Make sure everyone has a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services, family members, and your insurance company. Keep your cell phones and other electronic devices, including power banks, fully charged.
- Temporary Roof Protection: Keep materials like heavy-duty plastic sheeting and roofing nails on hand for temporary repairs to help minimize further damage.
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather reports to keep an eye on the hurricane’s path. Utilize a battery-powered radio to stay updated on weather conditions and emergency instructions. To receive text alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards that may affect Maryland, text “MdReady” to 211-631.
Review Your Insurance Coverage – Ensure that your homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for potential hurricane-related damage.
Understanding your policy's terms, including coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions, helps you identify any gaps that might leave you financially vulnerable.
By verifying your coverage in advance, you can make necessary adjustments, such as adding windstorm or flood insurance, to protect your home and assets.
Being informed and prepared can provide peace of mind and facilitate a smoother claims process, enabling quicker recovery and rebuilding after the hurricane.
- Know your Policy Information: Make sure you have your insurance agent’s name and telephone number, the insurance company’s telephone number, and all of your policy numbers (particularly if you have more than one or do business with more than one company).
- Document Your Home and Belongings: Take photos or videos of your home’s interior and exterior and keep a detailed inventory of your belongings. This can simplify the claims process if you need to file one.
In the path of the storm? Mitigating the immediate threat of a hurricane involves several key actions to provide protection and reduce potential damage.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Loose items outside your home can become hazardous during a hurricane. Move patio furniture and grills indoors and anchor heavy objects, such as sheds and playsets, to prevent them from blowing away and causing damage.
- Secure Windows and Doors: Secure vulnerable points, such as windows and doors, and protect them by reinforcing with storm shutters or bracing kits. You can also protect your windows against flying debris by using plywood as a cover and use weather-stripping or caulk to seal gaps and help prevent water intrusion.
- Install Flood Barriers: If you’re in a flood-prone area, consider installing barriers or sandbags to divert water away from your home.
- Implement Safety Protocols for Utilities: Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
After the Hurricane passes, prioritize safety by avoiding flooded areas and downed power lines. Check on family and neighbors to ensure everyone is safe. If you evacuated, only return when authorities say it's safe. Use caution when cleaning up debris and wear protective gear. Boil water until the supply is declared safe and be cautious of potential hazards like gas leaks or unstable structures.
- Inspect your home for damage and make temporary repairs if needed. Be wary of “storm chasers” and only use reputable companies. Our trusted team of Haag Certified Inspectors have undergone extensive training to accurately assess storm damage to determine the best course of action and work directly with your insurance company to ensure the repairs are timely and cost effective.
- If needed, seek assistance from additional resources:
- FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) - 1 (800) 621-3362
- American Red Cross - 1 (800) 733-2767
- Maryland Department of Emergency Management – (410) 517-3600
Hurricane season requires vigilance and preparation. At St. Mary’s Roofing, we are dedicated to helping Maryland homeowners stay safe and secure.
Being proactive with a comprehensive preparedness plan not only protects lives and homes, but also fosters a sense of readiness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.