IBHS News Releases

Tampa – Hurricane Charley is on his way to the west coast of Florida, but what will he do when he gets here? 

According to the Saffir-Simpson Scale of Hurricane Damage Potential, Charley’s current Category 2 wind speed of 105 miles per hour could cause major damage to mobile homes, roof damage to buildings, and blown down trees.

If Charley increases to a Category 3 storm by landfall with wind speeds exceeding 111 miles per hour, mobile homes will be destroyed, large trees could be blown down and there will be damage to small buildings.

If you are not in an evacuation zone and still have time to make preparations around your home, the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) says the three steps to take are:

1. Clean your yard.  Remove anything that will become flying debris, including dead tree limbs and lawn furniture.

2. Protect your windows.  Use plywood panels no less than 7/16” thick.  Make sure they’re properly fastened, with ring shank nails for wood frame houses or permanent anchors and bolts in masonry.

3. Reinforce your garage door.  This is your home’s largest single opening, next to your roof, making it vulnerable to high wind.  Temporary center supports or bracing can be bought at home improvement centers.

Wind-driven rain can also be a problem, so be sure to close and lock all windows, doors, skylights and vents in your home to prevent water intrusion.  If you’re in a flood prone area or near roads that are expected to flood, seal off the base of doors with sand bags or plastic sheeting and tape.

For more detailed information on protecting homes and business, visit the hurricane section of this web site.