How to Prepare for Windstorms: Your Complete Safety Guide

Windstorms can strike with little warning, causing extensive property damage and creating dangerous conditions around your home. According to the National Weather Service, severe windstorms affect millions of Americans annually, with property damage often exceeding billions of dollars each year. At Batten Home Security, we’ve seen firsthand how proper preparation can significantly reduce both the risk to your family’s safety and potential damage to your property. This comprehensive guide will walk you through practical steps to prepare your home, protect your family, and respond effectively when windstorms threaten your area.

Understanding Windstorm Risks in Your Area

Windstorms come in various forms, from straight-line winds and derechos to microbursts and severe thunderstorm winds. The first step in preparation is understanding the specific windstorm risks in your region. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that while coastal areas face hurricane-force winds seasonally, inland regions experience dangerous straight-line winds that can exceed 100 mph during severe weather events. Many homeowners we work with are surprised to learn that their region has specific seasonal wind patterns that can help predict when extra precautions might be necessary.

To assess your local windstorm risk:

Check your local emergency management website for historical windstorm data
Review FEMA’s wind zone maps to identify your region’s vulnerability
Speak with neighbors about past windstorm experiences in your immediate area
Consider consulting with a local home inspector who can identify specific vulnerabilities in your home’s construction

Creating a Windstorm Emergency Plan

Developing a comprehensive emergency plan is essential for keeping your family safe during severe windstorms. According to the American Red Cross, families who practice emergency plans are significantly more likely to avoid injuries during severe weather events. Based on our experience helping homeowners prepare for emergencies, we’ve found that clear communication and regular practice drills make all the difference when seconds count during an actual emergency.

Family Communication Plan

During a windstorm, family members may be separated or unable to communicate through normal channels. Establishing a communication plan ensures everyone knows what to do and where to go.

Designate meeting places: Identify a safe location in your home (typically an interior room without windows) and a secondary location outside your neighborhood in case evacuation is necessary
Emergency contacts: Create a contact card for each family member with important phone numbers and meeting locations
Out-of-town contact: Designate someone outside your immediate area as a central point of contact, as local communications may be disrupted
Communication method: Text messages often work when phone calls fail during emergencies

Emergency Drills and Practice

The homeowners we work with who successfully navigate windstorm emergencies all share one common practice: they regularly rehearse their emergency plans. Studies from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) show that families who practice emergency drills respond up to 50% faster during actual emergencies, potentially saving lives when minutes matter.

Schedule quarterly family drills to practice moving to your safe room
Time how long it takes everyone to gather essential supplies and reach the designated safe area
Practice alternative exit routes in case primary paths are blocked
Include pets in your drills to reduce their stress during actual emergencies
Review and update your plan after each practice session

Securing Your Home Against High Winds

Protecting your home from windstorm damage requires both short-term preparations and longer-term structural improvements. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, homes with properly secured roofs and reinforced entry points experience up to 70% less damage during severe windstorms. When helping homeowners assess their windstorm readiness, we typically recommend starting with a thorough inspection of the home’s exterior, focusing on areas most vulnerable to wind damage.

Roof and Attic Reinforcement

Your roof is particularly vulnerable during windstorms, with wind uplift capable of tearing off shingles or even entire roof sections. Professional roofing associations report that properly secured roofs can withstand wind speeds up to 30% higher than standard installations.

Roof inspection: Have a professional check for loose or damaged shingles, proper flashing, and secure gutters
Roof straps: Consider installing hurricane straps or clips that connect your roof to the wall structure
Attic bracing: Reinforce attic gables with additional bracing to prevent collapse
Soffit vents: Ensure soffit vents are properly secured to prevent wind from entering the attic

Windows and Doors Protection

Windows and doors are common failure points during windstorms, with broken windows creating dangerous pressure changes that can lead to structural failure. The National Association of Home Builders notes that properly protected windows can prevent cascading structural damage during severe windstorms.

Impact-resistant glass: Consider installing impact-resistant windows or hurricane shutters
Temporary protection: Keep 5/8-inch plywood sheets cut to size and ready to install over windows
Door reinforcement: Reinforce garage doors with bracing kits designed for wind resistance
Entry doors: Install deadbolts and reinforced strike plates on all exterior doors

Yard and Exterior Preparation

Flying debris causes a significant portion of windstorm injuries and property damage. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that unsecured outdoor items become dangerous projectiles in winds exceeding 50 mph. We typically advise homeowners to conduct a thorough yard assessment before storm season begins, identifying and addressing potential hazards.

Tree maintenance: Regularly trim dead branches and remove diseased trees
Outdoor furniture: Secure or store patio furniture, grills, and planters
Yard equipment: Store lawn equipment, toys, and tools in a secure location
Outdoor structures: Anchor sheds, playsets, and other structures to the ground
Fencing: Repair loose fence sections and reinforce gates

Essential Emergency Supplies for Windstorms

Having the right supplies ready before a windstorm strikes can make a critical difference in your family’s comfort and safety. The Department of Homeland Security recommends preparing for at least 72 hours of self-sufficiency following severe weather events. Based on what we’ve seen across numerous emergency situations, families who maintain well-organized, regularly updated emergency kits typically experience less stress and recover more quickly from windstorm emergencies.

Basic Emergency Kit

Your basic emergency kit should contain essentials that will help your family remain safe and comfortable during and after a windstorm. According to FEMA’s Ready.gov initiative, only about 39% of Americans have assembled complete emergency kits, leaving the majority underprepared for extended power outages or service disruptions.

Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days
Food: Non-perishable food for at least three days
Medical supplies: First aid kit, prescription medications, and personal hygiene items
Tools: Multi-tool, wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities), manual can opener
Communication: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, NOAA Weather Radio, cell phone with chargers and backup battery
Light: Flashlights with extra batteries, light sticks
Personal documents: Copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank records in a waterproof container

Windstorm-Specific Supplies

Beyond basic emergency supplies, certain items are particularly useful during and after windstorms. Power outages affecting more than 50,000 customers are common following severe windstorms, and restoration can take days or even weeks in heavily impacted areas.

Tarps and plastic sheeting: For temporary repairs to damaged roofs or broken windows
Duct tape: For securing tarps and plastic sheeting
Chainsaw or hand saw: For clearing fallen trees or branches
Work gloves: For handling debris safely
Portable generator: With sufficient fuel stored safely
Extension cords: Heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords for generator use
Carbon monoxide detector: Battery-powered to ensure safety when using generators

For families with specific needs, we typically recommend customizing your emergency kit with additional items that address your unique situation:

For families with infants: Formula, diapers, baby food, and extra clothing
For families with pets: Pet food, water, medications, carriers, and leashes
For those with medical needs: Extra medication, copies of prescriptions, backup power for medical devices

Stay Informed: Windstorm Monitoring and Alerts

Having reliable sources of information before, during, and after a windstorm is crucial for making timely safety decisions. According to a study by the National Weather Service, households with multiple alert systems receive critical warnings an average of 7 minutes earlier than those relying on a single information source. We’ve found that the homeowners who best weather these emergencies maintain redundant information systems that don’t rely solely on electricity or internet connectivity.

Weather Alert Systems

Modern technology offers numerous ways to receive timely weather alerts, but it’s important to have backup systems in place when power or cellular networks fail.

NOAA Weather Radio: Battery-powered radio that broadcasts continuous weather information
Emergency alert apps: FEMA app, Red Cross Emergency app, or your local emergency management app
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Ensure these are enabled on your mobile devices
Local news and radio: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates
Social media: Follow local emergency management agencies and weather services

Understanding Windstorm Terminology

Knowing the difference between various weather alerts helps you respond appropriately to changing conditions. The National Weather Service uses specific terminology that indicates both the certainty and severity of approaching windstorms.

Wind Advisory: Sustained winds of 25-39 mph for at least an hour, or gusts of 46-57 mph
High Wind Watch: Potential for high winds within the next 24-48 hours
High Wind Warning: Sustained winds of 40+ mph for at least an hour, or gusts of 58+ mph
Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms with damaging winds
Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A severe thunderstorm with winds of 58+ mph is occurring or imminent

During a Windstorm: Safety Procedures

When a windstorm hits, knowing exactly what to do can prevent injuries and save lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the majority of windstorm-related injuries occur either during the storm from flying debris or in the aftermath from cleanup activities. Based on our experience helping families prepare for emergencies, we’ve found that having clear, practiced procedures for different scenarios significantly improves safety outcomes.

Indoor Safety

If you’re indoors when a windstorm strikes, follow these safety guidelines to protect yourself and your family:

Move to a small, interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows and exterior walls
Avoid rooms with large ceiling spans like gymnasiums or auditoriums
Use a mattress, blankets, or pillows to protect yourself from flying debris
Do not use candles for lighting due to fire risk; use flashlights instead
Stay away from electrical equipment and avoid using landline phones
Keep pets in carriers or on leashes to prevent them from running away if your home is damaged

Outdoor and Vehicle Safety

If caught outdoors during a severe windstorm, your immediate priority should be finding appropriate shelter. The National Weather Service reports that winds of 45 mph can make walking difficult, while winds exceeding 60 mph can cause significant control problems for most vehicles.

Seek shelter in a sturdy building immediately
If no shelter is available, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area away from trees and power lines
In a vehicle, pull over safely away from trees, power lines, and overpasses
Stay in your vehicle with seatbelt fastened and turn on hazard lights
Put your head down below window level and cover with a blanket if possible

After the Storm: Recovery and Assessment

The period immediately following a windstorm requires caution and careful assessment. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 30% of windstorm-related injuries occur during cleanup activities. When helping homeowners navigate post-storm recovery, we emphasize the importance of methodical assessment before beginning any cleanup or repair work.

Safety First

Before beginning any cleanup or assessment, ensure conditions are safe:

Listen to local authorities for information and instructions
Check for injuries and provide first aid if necessary
Stay away from damaged buildings until they’ve been inspected
Watch for fallen power lines and report them immediately to the utility company
Be aware of possible gas leaks (if you smell gas, leave immediately and call the gas company)
Use battery-powered flashlights rather than candles to prevent fire

Home Damage Assessment

Conducting a thorough assessment of your property helps prioritize repairs and document damage for insurance claims. Insurance industry data indicates that homeowners who document damage thoroughly receive settlements that are, on average, 20-30% higher than those who provide minimal documentation.

Exterior inspection: Check the roof, siding, windows, and foundation for damage
Interior inspection: Look for water intrusion, ceiling damage, and structural issues
Utilities: Inspect electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC for damage
Documentation: Take photographs and videos of all damage before making temporary repairs
Insurance notification: Contact your insurance company promptly to report damage

Making Temporary Repairs

Temporary repairs can prevent further damage to your home while you wait for professional assistance. The Insurance Information Institute notes that reasonable temporary repair costs are typically covered by homeowners insurance policies when properly documented.

Cover broken windows and damaged roofs with tarps or plywood
Remove water from interior spaces to prevent mold
Clear gutters and drains to prevent water backup
Remove fallen trees or branches that pose immediate safety risks
Keep all receipts for materials purchased for temporary repairs

Long-Term Windstorm Resilience

Building long-term resilience against windstorms involves strategic improvements to your home and property. According to FEMA, homes built or retrofitted to modern wind-resistant standards are 77% less likely to suffer major damage during severe windstorms. We typically advise homeowners to develop a multi-year plan for improving their home’s wind resistance, prioritizing the most critical vulnerabilities first.

Structural Improvements

Consider these long-term improvements to enhance your home’s windstorm resilience:

Roof upgrades: Install impact-resistant roofing materials and hurricane straps
Window protection: Replace standard windows with impact-resistant glass or install permanent storm shutters
Entry doors: Upgrade to reinforced doors with enhanced frame anchoring
Garage doors: Replace with wind-rated doors or install permanent bracing kits
Foundation connections: Improve connections between your home’s foundation, walls, and roof

Landscaping for Wind Resistance

Strategic landscaping can significantly reduce windstorm damage to your property. The Arbor Day Foundation reports that properly placed trees can reduce wind speeds by up to 40% and protect structures from flying debris.

Plant windbreaks of trees and shrubs to deflect and slow wind
Choose native tree species known for wind resistance in your area
Maintain proper spacing between trees and structures
Use gravel or stone instead of mulch in landscaping beds to prevent it from becoming projectiles
Install sturdy trellises and fences that can serve as windbreaks

Insurance Considerations for Windstorm Protection

Adequate insurance coverage is a critical component of windstorm preparedness. According to the Insurance Information Institute, approximately 60% of homes in the United States are underinsured by an average of 20%, leaving homeowners vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket expenses after windstorms. We’ve found that homeowners who review their policies annually and understand their coverage limitations are better positioned to recover financially after severe weather events.

Policy Review and Documentation

Regular review of your insurance policies helps ensure you have appropriate coverage for windstorm damage:

Review your homeowners policy annually, paying special attention to wind damage coverage
Check for exclusions or separate deductibles for wind damage
Consider additional coverage if you live in a high-risk area
Document your home’s contents with photos or video, updating annually
Store digital copies of insurance policies and home inventory in cloud storage

Claims Process Preparation

Understanding how to file an insurance claim before disaster strikes can expedite your recovery process:

Keep contact information for your insurance agent and company readily available
Understand your policy’s requirements for reporting damage
Know the timeline for filing claims after a windstorm
Prepare to document all damage with photos and detailed notes
Maintain receipts for emergency repairs and additional living expenses if displaced

Community Resources and Support

Community connections and resources can significantly enhance your windstorm preparedness and recovery efforts. Research from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine shows that communities with strong social networks and organized emergency response systems recover from disasters up to 50% faster than those without such infrastructure. We typically recommend that homeowners familiarize themselves with local resources well before emergency situations arise.

Local emergency management: Connect with your county or city emergency management office
Community emergency response teams (CERT): Consider joining or supporting local volunteer emergency response groups
Neighborhood networks: Establish connections with neighbors to check on each other during emergencies
Relief organizations: Identify local chapters of the Red Cross, Salvation Army, and other disaster relief organizations
Utility companies: Save emergency contact information for reporting outages and hazards

Conclusion: Creating Your Windstorm Preparedness Plan

Preparing for windstorms requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both immediate safety needs and long-term resilience. By understanding the risks, securing your home, assembling emergency supplies, staying informed, and knowing what to do before, during, and after a windstorm, you can significantly reduce the potential impact on your family and property.

At Batten Home Security, we’ve seen how proper preparation makes all the difference when windstorms strike. The homeowners who fare best during these emergencies are those who take a proactive, systematic approach to preparedness, addressing vulnerabilities before they’re tested by severe weather.

Start today by assessing your current level of preparedness and identifying the most critical gaps to address first. Remember that windstorm preparedness is an ongoing process rather than a one-time effort. By continually improving your home’s resilience and maintaining your emergency plans and supplies, you’ll be better equipped to protect what matters most when windstorms threaten your community.

Want peace of mind for your home? Browse Batten’s expert-recommended emergency preparation products and start protecting what matters most today.

Sources used for this article:

National Weather Service Wind Safety, https://www.weather.gov/safety/wind

FEMA: Preparing for High Winds, https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management/wind

Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, https://ibhs.org/wind-driven-rain/

Ready.gov: Severe Weather, https://www.ready.gov/severe-weather