How To Secure Outdoor Furniture In A Hurricane
Secure Outdoor Furniture for Hurricanes: Your Ultimate Safety Guide
With hurricane season upon us, ensuring the safety and security of your outdoor furniture is paramount. The force of hurricane winds can turn unsecured items into dangerous projectiles, posing a risk to life and property. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about securing outdoor furniture to mitigate these risks effectively.
The Importance of Securing Outdoor Furniture
The primary reason to secure outdoor furniture during a hurricane is to prevent it from being lifted by the wind and becoming airborne. Furniture that is not secured can cause significant damage to properties, including broken windows and damaged roofs, and can also lead to serious injuries. By securing your outdoor items, you play a crucial part in protecting your community and reducing the aftermath cleanup and repair costs.
Comprehensive Steps to Secure Your Outdoor Furniture
Step 1: Conduct a Thorough Assessment
Start by inspecting your outdoor area. Make a comprehensive list of all items that need to be secured or brought indoors. This list should include furniture, decorations, grills, and even gardening tools. Prioritize items based on their size, weight, and potential to cause damage.
Step 2: Bring Smaller Items Indoors
The most straightforward method to secure outdoor items is to bring them inside. Utilize spaces like garages, sheds, or even your home’s interior to shelter these items from the storm. Small items, while seemingly innocuous, can become hazardous in high winds.
Step 3: Securely Anchor Large Furniture
For items that are too large or cumbersome to move indoors, securing them in place is your next best option:
- Anchor and Strap: Utilize heavy-duty straps and ground anchors to secure large furniture pieces directly to the ground or to a solid structure on your property.
- Bundle and Tie: Group together chairs, tables, and other furniture, tightly wrapping them with strong cords or straps. Secure the bundle to a heavy or immovable object.
- Use Protective Covers: Opt for quality outdoor furniture covers to shield against rain and debris. Ensure these covers are tightly strapped to prevent them from being blown away.
Step 4: Address Glass and Fragile Items
Glass components, such as tabletops, should be removed and stored indoors to prevent breakage. If removal isn’t an option, securely fasten the glass to its base and protect it with cushioning materials like blankets or bubble wrap.
Step 5: Manage Outdoor Decorations and Plants
Outdoor decor items and plants can easily be overlooked. Secure them with stakes or bring them inside. For larger plants that cannot be moved, try securing them with ties or protective netting to limit movement.
Step 6: Final Inspection
After securing everything, conduct a detailed inspection of your property to ensure no item has been overlooked. This includes double-checking hanging items, outdoor lighting, and any other objects that could potentially be lifted by the wind.
Long-Term Strategies for Future Preparedness
Invest in durable outdoor furniture that can withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing the need for frequent securing or moving.
Install permanent anchoring systems for regularly used items, allowing for quick and efficient securing as a storm approaches.
Consider the impact of your landscaping on potential wind damage and choose plants and features that are less likely to become airborne.
Additional Tips for Hurricane Preparedness
Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed about the hurricane’s path and potential impact on your area through reliable news sources and weather apps.
Create an Emergency Kit: Have a kit ready with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies.
Plan for Evacuation: Know your local evacuation routes and have a plan in place in case you need to leave your home.
Communicate with Neighbors: Work together with your neighbors to secure outdoor items collectively. This not only enhances safety but also fosters a sense of community.
Document Your Property: Before the storm hits, take photos or videos of your home and belongings for insurance purposes.
The Bottom Line: Prioritizing Safety and Preparedness
Securing outdoor furniture in anticipation of a hurricane is a critical component of storm preparedness. By taking proactive steps to secure your outdoor space, you can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and personal injury. Remember, the time to act is well before the storm is on your doorstep. Use this guide as a resource to ensure you and your property are well-prepared for whatever the hurricane season brings.
Your efforts to secure outdoor furniture are not just about protecting personal property; they are about contributing to the broader safety and resilience of your community. Hurricanes are formidable, but with thorough preparation, we can mitigate their impact and recover more quickly in their aftermath.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and let’s support each other through the stormy seasons ahead.
