Hurricanes can unleash devastating winds and torrential rains, posing significant threats to homes and safety. In Houston, Galveston, and other surrounding Texas communities, where severe weather events are common, knowing how to respond if your window breaks during a hurricane is crucial. Let Houston Hurricane & Security Products help you be more prepared by giving you a guide to help you safely manage a window break and protect your home for future storms. Browse our hurricane shutters now!
What Do You Do if Your Window Breaks During A Hurricane?
What Do You Do if Your Window Breaks During Hurricane?
Ensure Your Safety First
When a window breaks during a storm, your safety should always come first. Tattered glass shards can pose serious injury risks. Evacuate the room where the window has broken and move to a safer area in your home. If you're riding out the storm, consider wearing closed-toe, durable shoes to protect your feet. Use a flashlight instead of candles to avoid fire hazards, and focus on keeping yourself and your family safe.
Secure the Area
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, secure the affected area. If possible, close any doors to prevent wind from pushing more debris inside. If the weather permits, temporarily cover broken windows with plywood, plastic sheeting, or even heavy blankets to block the wind and rain. This can help maintain your home's internal environment while you figure out your next steps. These makeshift barriers can be replaced with more durable storm panels or hurricane shutters when its safe.
Assess & Document the Damage
The next step is to assess the extent of the damage. Always take photographs for documentation — this can be vital for insurance claims later on. Look for any more broken windows or other structural damage. Having this evidence on hand will not only help with insurance but can also provide insight into what repairs are necessary after the storm passes.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Once the storm has passed, reach out to your homeowners' insurance provider. Report the damage and provide the documentation you gathered. Ask about your coverage regarding window damage during a hurricane and any steps you need to take to file a claim. Many companies have processes in place for storm-related claims and might even have preferred contractors for repairs. Starting this process as soon as you can can help get a jump-start on repairs and installing hurricane panels.
Prepare for Future Hurricanes
Preparation ahead of time can significantly reduce the damage your home faces in future storms. Here are several strategies Houston Hurricane & Security Products recommends to protect your windows before the next hurricane hits:
- Install Hurricane Shutters: This is your best defense against flying debris. Options range from permanent fixtures to removable panels that can be installed quickly before a storm.
- Use Impact-Resistant Windows: Upgrading to impact-resistant glass can offer better protection against high winds and debris.
- Board Up Windows: Keep plywood sheets on hand for quick boarding up of windows. Familiarize yourself with the best practices for securing them in advance.
- Maintain Your Landscape: Trim trees and bushes regularly. High winds can easily uproot branches, which may impact your windows.
- Create an Emergency Kit: Include tools and materials needed for quick repairs, such as duct tape and plastic sheeting, to help secure broken windows until professional help is available.
Browse Hurricane Window Panels In Texas
Experiencing a broken window during a hurricane can be alarming, but knowing how to respond can keep you and your family safe. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that the safety of your family always comes first during extreme weather events! Let Houston Hurricane & Security Products help keep your property safe with our window storm panels and other shutters.