DISASTER! - Homeland Security and Emergency Management ...

and winter storms include damaging winds. And certain parts of the worldexperience high winds on a normal basis due to wind patterns.Realize when extreme winds strike they are not constant - they rapidlyincrease and decrease. A home in the path of wind causes the wind tochange direction. This change in wind direction increases pressure on partsof the house creating stress which causes the connections between buildingcomponents to fail. For example, the roof or siding can be pulled off or thewindows can be pushed in.Strengthen weak spots on homeExperts believe there are four areas of your home that should be checkedfor weakness -- the roof, windows, doors and garage doors. Homeownerscan take some steps to secure and strengthen these areas but some thingsshould be done by an experienced builder or contractor.ROOF:• Truss bracing or gable end bracing (supports placed strategicallyto strengthen the roof)• Anchors, clips and straps can be installed (may want tocall a professional since sometimes difficult to install)WINDOWS and DOORS:• Storm shutters (for windows, French doors, slidingglass doors, and skylights) or keep plywood on hand• Reinforced bolt kits for doorsGARAGE DOORS:• Certain parts of the country have building codes requiringgarage doors to withstand high winds (check with localbuilding officials)• Some garage doors can be strengthened with retrofit kits(involves installing horizontal bracing onto each panel)Secure mobile homesMake sure your trailer or mobile home is securely anchored. Consult themanufacturer for information on secure tiedown systems.Secure or tie down loose stuffExtreme winds can also cause damage from flying debris that can act likemissiles and ram through walls, windows or the roof if the wind speeds arehigh enough. You should consider securing large or heavy equipment insideand out to reduce some of the flying debris like patio furniture, barbequegrills, water heaters, garbage cans, bookcases and shelving, etc.32 www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325