Strong winds can sweep in with little warning, knocking down branches, rattling roofs, and sending unsecured items flying. While we can’t control the weather, a few simple precautions can make all the difference in protecting your home and peace of mind. Here’s what every homeowner should keep in mind when the forecast calls for high winds.

Bring it in or tie it down

Before the gusts start, take a walk around your yard. Patio furniture, umbrellas, grills, trash cans, and even kids’ toys can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Bring what you can inside, and secure what you can’t with sturdy straps or weights.

Inspect your trees

Overhanging branches and weakened limbs are a major culprit for storm damage. Trim branches that hang near your roof, siding, or power lines. If a tree looks diseased, cracked, or leaning, consider calling a professional arborist before the storm hits. And circle back to those trees once the storm has passed to address before it becomes a problem.

Check your roof and gutters

Loose shingles or tiles can lift right off in strong winds, leading to leaks or bigger roof issues later. A quick roof inspection (or hiring someone to take a look) can save you costly repairs. Make sure your gutters are clear too: heavy rain often tags along with high winds, and clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep into your home.

Close and latch windows and doors

Even a small draft can let pressure build inside your home during a wind event, increasing the risk of damage. Shut and securely latch all windows, doors, and garage doors.

Park smart

If you can, park your car inside a garage or away from large trees and power lines. It’s easy to overlook, but falling branches or debris can do serious damage to vehicles.

Stay informed and prepared

Monitor local weather alerts and have flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger ready in case of outages. If you lose power, avoid using candles (a fire risk during windy conditions) and opt for battery-powered lights instead.

After the storm, Inspect Safely

Once the storm has passed, check your home and yard for damage. Look for missing shingles, downed wires, or loose siding and be sure to stay clear of any hazards until it’s safe. If you notice electrical lines down, call your utility company right away.