When a hurricane rolls through town, a reliable homeowners insurance policy will provide financial protection if your property sustains damage. However, it's still in your best interest to safeguard your home against the severe weather to limit the potential harm to your family and belongings. Here are a few measures you can take for hurricane safety. 

How Can Homeowners Prepare for a Hurricane?

1. Shutter the Windows

Your glass windows are weak spots for flying debris in heavy winds and water leaks from torrential rain. Shuttering them up will protect them from this damage. Close and lock each window, then board them up with sheets of plywood. 

It may also be worthwhile to have storm shutters installed on each window. These impact-resistant features can quickly be rolled or flipped down over the windows when you receive a storm warning. Installing them may also earn you a discount on your homeowners insurance. 

2. Bring Yard Items Inside

Pulling all loose items out of your yard will protect them from damage and prevent them from becoming flying debris that could strike your home. Bring grills, kids' toys, porch swings, and outdoor furniture inside. You may want to install a shed in your yard that can be used to store these items when needed if you don't have space in your garage or home. 

3. Brace the Garage Door

Garage doors often sustain damage from high winds during hurricanes. Reinforce yours with vertical door braces. Horizontal beams installed on the ceiling offer additional protection against gusts. 

If your garage door is old and vulnerable, replace it with an impact-resistant model.  

If you need a reliable homeowners insurance policy that offers financial protection from hurricane damage, contact the team at K.L. Smith Agency LLC. This family-owned and -operated company provides top-notch personal service, comprehensive coverage, and competitive rates for residents throughout Greater Willimantic and eastern Connecticut. They'll also walk you through any possible discounts you can earn for safeguarding your home against severe weather. Learn more about their homeowners insurance online, or call (860) 423-9294 to request a free no-obligation quote.