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  1. Shutter all openings.
    The most important thing you can do to improve the chance your home will survive a hurricane is to protect all windows and doors. The range of products on the market today means it's easier to find protection that fits your budget. Whatever you choose, make sure the product has the proper approvals for wind pressure and large-missile impact. If it's not a permanent product, install permanent fasteners ahead of time so installation is easier when storms threaten. Gable end vents can be shuttered as if they were a window. Garage door companies have bracing systems available for about $400 that should work for most door styles.

  2. Secure loose roof shingles.
    Keeping shingles attached is critical. If the edge shingles are not well fastened or extend beyond the drip edge more than a quarter-of-an-inch, high wind can lift them off and create a peeling process or domino effect. If they come up without much effort (older shingles become brittle and may crack when bent too much), secure them with three one-inch dabs of roofing cement under each tab.

  3. Seal openings, cracks and holes.
    Water can invade homes in a number of ways, especially when it's being blown horizontally. The problem is compounded if there's a loss of power and air conditioners or dehumidifiers are unable to dry things out. Fill holes where wires, cables and pipes enter and exit the house and seal around electrical boxes and circuit breaker panels. Seal cracks around wall outlets, dryer vents, bathroom and kitchen vents, and wall lights.

  4. Strengthen soffits.
    Keeping soffits (the material covering the underside of your roof overhang) in place can help keep water out of your house. Some have wood supports but the soffit material is not adequately fastened to the wood or there is no wood backing and the vinyl or aluminum channels are stapled or nailed to the wall. If there are wood supports, secure soffit material with sharp-pointed stainless steel screws. If the channels are just nailed to the wall, you can use polyurethane caulk to seal the channel to the wall and tie the parts together.

  5. Survey surroundings and limit potential flying debris.
    Limiting possible sources of wind-borne debris before a storm will help protect your home and those around you. Replace gravel/rock landscaping materials with shredded bark. Limit yard objects. Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed. Cut weak branches.

Protect Your Property With Insurance You Can Count On

When Hurricane Hugo struck South Carolina in 1989, Farm Bureau Insurance quickly paid more than 16,000 claims for our customers. That reputation for quick claims response with a high level of customer service still stands today. When disaster strikes, be sure your South Carolina home is insured by Farm Bureau Insurance.