National Preparedness Month: Business Prep

9/22/2023 (Permalink)

Flying Debris Protection 

High winds produce flying debris which can cause property damage, like a roof leak or broken windows, and even structural damage, like a fractured wall. We can help you minimize the risk of flying debris by following these tips.

1. Trim Trees and Clean Grounds

While high winds may result in a few missing shingles, the most significant damage is caused by flying tree branches and other miscellaneous debris. Therefore, all trees and bushes should be trimmed to minimize the risk of a damaged roof or structure. Additionally, you can police the property daily to collect any refuse, ensuring that it, too, does not harm your property in future storms. 

2. Secure and Reinforce Exterior Objects/Decor

Exterior objects like signs, furniture and fences, should be secured and reinforced to minimize any potential property damage. Depending on the severity of the winds, furniture and fence posts can become projectiles in volatile storms. You can secure these objects by mounting them to cement slabs or, regarding fences, replacing loose boards and railings.

3. Convert Gravel Pathways and Landscaping to Dirt or Concrete

A roof leak is common after high winds, and the main reason is roof damage caused by flying debris. Loose gravel and rock are some of the most common elements of flying debris, and each material adds to the risk of property damage during high winds. Replacing gravel driveways and pathways with concrete or asphalt and converting rock beds to mulch will minimize your risks during wind storms. 

4. Create an Emergency Action Plan

While you can take every preventative measure possible, nothing is guaranteed, and that is why you should have an emergency action plan in place. Restoration specialists from around the Selma, AL, area help with this type of planning, and many even offer customized plans that take effect immediately following a disaster.

Wind damage can result in many issues like a roof leak or broken windows, but there are things you, as a business owner, can do to help protect your property. Trimming trees, policing the grounds and reducing risks through appropriate landscaping are all proactive ways of protecting your business from future high wind storms.