We are excited to announce that a long time Master Craftsman of our business is now the proud new owner; please join us in congratulating Earl Swader as the new owner of Handyman Connection of Blue Ash. Earl has previous business ownership already under his belt and is looking forward to continuing to serve the Blue Ash community as the proud owner.
Outdoors / August 18, 2025
Keeping your home safe in hurricane-prone areas demands immediate action. Every year, the Atlantic hurricane season brings potential threats to millions living along coastal regions. The impact of these storms can be devastating, causing property damage and endangering lives. Know that the preparation and the right safety measures can reduce risks. Let’s take a closer look at some steps you can take to safeguard your property and be prepared when severe weather strikes.
The first step in securing your home from hurricanes is understanding the risks they pose. Hurricanes are powerful storms that bring a combination of threats: high winds, torrential rains, storm surges, and flooding. Wind speeds can exceed 100 mph, capable of ripping shingles off roofs, toppling power lines, and hurling debris with destructive force. Flooding from storm surge or heavy rain can invade basements and ground floors in coastal or low-lying areas.
Recognizing your home’s specific vulnerabilities gives room for targeted, effective preparation. Clearing gutters and checking for leaks or cracks can prevent expensive water damage. Local flood maps and weather alerts can assess how at-risk your location is. Homeowners should act before the storm hits, increasing their ability to protect family, property, and possessions from potential disaster.
Choosing the right windows can impact your home’s ability to withstand a hurricane. When preparing for the season, know if you need storm, hurricane, and impact windows and learn more about their differences. Storm windows are installed over existing windows to provide added protection from rain and wind. They’re cost-effective and energy-efficient, but not built for severe conditions. Hurricane windows are engineered for high winds and flying debris. They are made with stronger frames and laminated glass that can resist cracking under pressure.
The highest level of protection comes from impact-resistant windows, which feature multiple layers of glass and plastic that stay intact even when shattered. These windows provide superior safety, reduce noise, improve insulation, and may even lower insurance premiums. Each window type has its place depending on your budget and needs. Understanding these differences helps you make informed choices that improve home resilience and safety during hurricane season.
An emergency kit should be easy to access, well-organized, and tailored to your household’s needs. At minimum, it should contain a three-day supply of non-perishable food and at least one gallon of water per person per day. Include necessary prescription medications, first aid items, flashlights, extra batteries, a manual can opener, hygiene items, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
Pack copies of insurance policies, IDs, and emergency contacts in a waterproof container. Have a whistle, duct tape, gloves, and a multipurpose tool at hand. If you have pets, prepare food, leashes, and any medications they might need. For families with infants, include formula, diapers, and wipes. Store everything in a portable bag or bin, and review its contents every few months.
Reinforcing your home’s structure minimizes damage from hurricanes. Evaluate the roof, the most vulnerable during storms. Installing hurricane straps or roof clips connects the roof to the wall studs, improving wind resistance. Inspect shingles or tiles for wear and secure any that are loose. Assess doors and garage doors to guarantee they’re wind-rated. Know that these openings can be reinforced with braces or retrofit kits. Windows should be a top priority: consider impact-resistant glass or storm shutters for extra protection.
Check the integrity of exterior walls and secure any siding that could peel off. Caulking around doors and windows prevents water intrusion, whereas sandbags and flood barriers protect entryways from rising water. For mobile homes or modular structures, anchoring systems can increase their stability. Investing in these upgrades can prevent extensive structural damage and save on repairs.
Your yard can either buffer or amplify hurricane damage depending on how it’s maintained. Well-planned landscaping can reduce hazards and improve your home’s safety during storms. Inspect trees and large shrubs. Prune overhanging limbs, remove weak or dead branches, and consider eliminating unstable trees that could fall during high winds. Be cautious with gravel or decorative rocks, which can become dangerous projectiles. Opt instead for mulch or softer materials.
All landscaping elements like trellises, garden décor, and patio furniture need to be secured or stored indoors before a storm hits. Keep drains, gutters, and ditches clear to prevent water accumulation around your property. Choose native plants adapted to your region’s weather; they tend to be sturdier and more wind-resistant. Landscaping should not obstruct emergency exits or utilities. With these tips in mind, your outdoor space can become a defensive asset during hurricanes.
Everyone in your household should know what to do when a hurricane threatens. To create a family emergency plan, identify potential evacuation zones and routes. Designate a local and an out-of-town meeting point in case you’re separated. All family members should know how to contact one another and dial emergency services. Your plan should include a checklist of what to pack, including essential documents, medications, and valuables. If you have pets, plan for their evacuation and locate pet-friendly shelters ahead of time.
Practice evacuation drills at least once a year so everyone becomes familiar with the steps. Assign specific roles: who grabs the emergency kit, who secures windows, who checks on elderly neighbors. Store your emergency plan in both digital and hard-copy formats, and keep it updated. A well-rehearsed plan reduces panic and ensures a faster, safer response for your entire family.
Being informed is among the most powerful tools in hurricane preparedness. Technology makes it easier than ever to stay updated. Subscribe to official alerts through FEMA, NOAA Weather Radio, or local emergency management systems. Use weather apps that provide real-time radar, storm path predictions, and notification systems.
Understanding the hurricane categories (1–5) gives you a clearer picture of potential impacts and how to respond. Monitor local news for evacuation notices, shelter openings, or road closures. Know your evacuation routes in advance and keep a printed map on hand in case GPS fails. Sign up for emergency texts and emails from your municipality. Stay informed post-storm for information about curfews, relief efforts, and utility restoration.
When you prepare your home and family for the possibility of hurricanes, you can lessen the impact on your property and your loved ones. Hurricane preparedness is all about mitigating risks before they arise. Equip your home with safety measures, keep updated with local guidelines, and remember the importance of having a solid emergency plan. Your preparations can provide protection, regardless of the storm’s intensity.
11115 Kenwood Rd.
Blue Ash, OH 45242
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