When it comes to natural disasters and emergencies, we learn how to stay safe at a very young age.

By the time we’re in elementary school, we know how to stop, drop, and roll in case of a fire. We also learn to stay away from large windows during a tornado and to stay indoors during a severe lightning storm.

But what about protection against windstorms ?

What do you do to minimize the risk and dangers?

Also, as we age, more factors come into play and you have to not only think about yourself in case of an emergency but also you home and family.

Continue reading to learn how to lower your wind vulnerability risk, before and after the storm hits.

Know what a windstorm entails

If you’ve never experienced a windstorm, they differ from varying degrees of intensity. To be as prepared as possible, learn what exactly a wind storm entails.

There are quite a few types, but here are the most popular.

• straight line winds: winds associated with thunder storms. They move in a straight path
• gust front: these cold winds clash with cold air
• downburst: strong winds caused by a downdraft resuting from a thunderstorm
• derecho: these winds move at a rapid an damaging pace along with severe showers.

At their worst, winds can get up to one hundred miles per hour!

Severe windstorm damage is even more common than damage from tornadoes, so it’s important you learn how to maximize your protection against windstorms.

What next?

So now you know how dangerous windstorms can be, now it’s time to read up on how to actually prepare for the worse case scenario and what you need to do before, during and after the event.

Before the storm hits

What you do before the storm hits is just as important as how you approach the actual disaster in real-time.

Start by checking your insurance policy, first and foremost. Then, draw out a safety plan for you and your loved ones.

Where will everyone meet, for example?

Then, when the storm grows closer, make sure your windows are secured, there are no foreign chemicals around your home, and the perimeter is clear of dangerous debris like bricks and dead branches.

Tie heavy objects down.

However, the best way to go about inspecting your home before a storm is on the radar, is to hire a home inspector to get a closer look.

Home inspection services

Home inspection services offer real protection against windstorms. Think of it as your way of armouring up before going into battle. A professional is able to spot issues before they grow into something more serious and permanently damaging.

During the storm: Staying Safe

Find shelter, preferably underground, like in a basement.

Keep your back turned against windows and glass. Barricade the doors and windows and wait for the storm to pass.

After the storm: Protection against windstorms

Once it’s finally safe to leave your home, slowly exit and examine the area for damage. Check the roof first, since it’s most susceptible to damage. However, you can always call a certified contractor to take a closer look at the wreckage.

Conclusion

Keeping your family safe from windstorms requires you to know exactly what you’re up against and the extent of the damage it can cause.

What you do before, during, and after the storm, are all equally important. If you struggle with identifying certain red flags while inspecting your home, call a qualified contractor to assist you. Making the call can help you identify plausible risks before they even happen and is the best way to protect your home and loved ones.