How to Prepare for a Hurricane in Houston

Draining the water from your pool may seem like a logical step before a hurricane, but it’s actually a recipe for disaster. The weight of the water helps hold your pool in the ground, preventing it from floating or cracking in high winds. Instead, put a pool cover over it. This keeps fallen objects or debris from getting inside and keeps the pool intact. Plus, it also means less cleanup after the hurricane, which is always a good thing.

A bathtub full of water will be a lifesaver when the faucets run dry. It’s great for flushing the toilet or doing dishes after a hurricane. Also, reserve a portion of your freezer for frozen water. That way, you’ll have a supply of cold, drinkable water that thaws slowly and will help keep your refrigerator cold in the event of a power outage.

Your car isn’t just for getting around during a hurricane—it can also be a versatile survival tool. Pack your vehicle with extra blankets, clothing, non-perishable food, and snacks. That way, if you need to evacuate quickly, everything will be ready to go, allowing you to leave smoothly and in a more organized manner. Remember to leave your car in the garage if possible.

This is a no-brainer for potential evacuations, but it can come in handy if you’re stuck at home. If your home loses power and you need your car to charge appliances or use it for air conditioning, you’ll have plenty of fuel on hand to keep the engine running. A full tank also means you can siphon gas to use in generators or other essential equipment; just make sure you have the right tools (like a certified siphon hose) and do it safely.

Securing windows is another essential step, but it’s often done incorrectly. If done correctly, it can save you from broken glass or flying objects. It’s recommended to use 5/8-inch-thick plywood and cut it to the exact dimensions of your windows. Improperly sized plywood can leave gaps that wind and debris can exploit. For an extra layer of protection, add weather stripping around the edges to help seal out wind and rain.

Clogged gutters that overflow during a hurricane can cause significant damage to your roof and foundation, which can cost you thousands of dollars to repair. Before a storm hits, take the time to remove all debris, leaves, and dirt from your gutters. It’s a simple task that ensures rainwater can flow away from your home unobstructed, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage.

Back up all important information and documents online. This includes insurance policies, ID cards, birth certificates, and any other important documents. Scan or take a photo of the documents and store them securely in an online database. That way, if your physical documents are lost or damaged in a hurricane, you can still access them digitally. It will also be much easier to replace them later.

Investing in bulky items like a surge protector, generator, multi-fuel camp stove, and extra propane tanks can pay off in severe weather. These items bolster your hurricane preparedness and can make life more comfortable during disruptions like power outages.

It may sound silly, but a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in the event of a power outage and loss of communication. Have alternative means of staying in touch with the outside world, such as non-electrical items like a battery-powered radio, whistles, or signaling devices. Arrange a meeting point with your loved ones in case you get separated, and have an out-of-town contact that everyone can check in with. That way, even if cell service is interrupted, you can rest assured that everyone is safe. If you have pets, have a plan for them and an emergency kit with a supply of food, water, medication, their ID tags and updated microchip information, and a recent photo in case they get lost in the chaos.

Houston-area homeowners who live in 100- and 500-year flood zones must purchase flood insurance. But even if you live outside of these zones and think you don’t need insurance, think again. Hurricanes are unpredictable, and even a minor hurricane can cause significant damage. Homeowners and renters insurance typically doesn’t cover damage caused by severe weather, so investing in specific flood or even windstorm insurance can save you from financial problems later on. The average flood insurance premium in Houston costs about $800 per year.