This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

In April of 2010, the drilling rig Deepwater Horizon sank, leaving behind a gushing oil well that has caused the largest oil spill in US history. Now, with hurricane season already underway, many experts are concerned that hurricane conditions could further spread the oil over much of the southeastern US states. With hurricane Alex (which is currently forecast to hit Mexico) already causing disruptions in the form of 12-foot waves, it’s important that you understand the classifications for different types of hurricanes, as well as what kind of effect they can have when the pass over areas of land and water.

When Does a Tropical Storm Become a Hurricane?

The term “Tropical Cyclone” may refer to a hurricane, tropical storm, tropical depression, cyclone or cyclonic storm. It’s a general term for a weather system with a low-pressure center, as well as several strong thunderstorms. A tropical storm is measured at having sustained winds between 39 mph and 73 mph. When the winds inside a tropical cyclone reach a sustained speed of 74 mph (not including gusts), it is classified as a hurricane.

What is a ‘Storm Surge’?

For hurricane classifications, you will commonly see a reference to “storm surge height”. A storm surge is when the water level in an affected area goes up by a designated number of feet over sea level. This is caused mostly by the high winds of the storm system pressing down on the surface of the water. A storm surge is also sometimes casually referred to as a “storm tide”.

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is the most widely known method for classifying hurricanes. The classifications are as follows:

Category 1 Hurricane:
This category occurs after a hurricane has formed from an existing weather system. The wind speeds of a Category 1 hurricane are from 74 – 95 mph. The storm surge is usually measured as being from 4 – 5 feet. Most of the damage from a Category 1 hurricane are to mobile homes, vegetation and some windows. Minor flooding in coastal areas.

Category 2 Hurricane
A category 2 hurricane has wind speeds from 96 – 110 mph. The storm surge may reach heights of from 6 – 8 feet. Damage to residential roofing, windows and doors is common. Mobile homes and shrubbery are under considerable threat. Any boat in an unprotected mooring is also at risk for serious damage.

Category 3 Hurricane
When a hurricane reaches category 3, its wind speeds have been measured at 111 – 130 mph. The storm surge may reach heights of from 9 – 12 feet. Residential structures are under considerable risk, and mobile homes are often completely destroyed. Serious flooding puts all coastal residential properties at additional threat. Minor number of curtainwall failures.

Category 4 Hurricane
A Category 4 hurricane has wind speeds from 131 – 155 mph, as well as storm surges that reach from 13 to 18 feet. Widespread curtainwall failures, as well as complete destruction of some small structures. Extensive beach erosion, and widespread flooding are also common.

Category 5 Hurricane
For a Category 5 hurricane, wind speeds are at or over 155 mph. The storm surge can reach over 18 feet. Hurricane Wilma (a 2005 storm) was the most intense Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin, with top wind speeds of over 185 mph. A hurricane of this strength could destroy many residential structures and cause severe flooding, which would result in large-scale evacuations.

Satellite Footage of Hurricane Dean (2007)

Click here to view the embedded video.

Related posts:

1. Should you open your Windows during a Hurricane? This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
2. How to Hurricane-Proof your Home on a Budget This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
3. How to Keep your Family Safe during a Hurricane This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
4. 2010 Hurricane Season Predicted to be Above Normal This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
5. How to Install Impact Resistant Hurricane Windows This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

In 1996, a script co-authored by Michael Crichton finally made it to the big screen. The resulting movie, “Twister”, took the movie world by storm. At the time, the visual effects in this movie were groundbreaking, setting new standards in the movie industry. After being the second-highest grossing film of 1996, Twister went on to be the first movie to ever be released in the DVD format.

The movie followed a group of “storm-chasers”, who were attempting to gather data by releasing research devices directly into the funnel of a tornado. The tagline for the movie was “The Dark Side of Nature”, since the film displayed several scenes highlighting the destructive power of tornadoes.

From Jan 2010 to June 2010, over 640 tornadoes have already occurred in the United States. Thanks to education about tornado safety procedures and early warning systems, only 25 people have died during 2010 in tornado-related deaths. However, it’s still extremely important that you, and your family are educated about the proper tornado safety procedures. This guide will cover how to best prepare for a tornado in your home.

Unplug all Appliances.
To reduce your risk of electric shock, unplug all appliances in your home. Ideally, you should have a battery-powered radio that has a weather band to keep you updated on the situation in your area. Avoid using any electrical appliances in your home, including toaster ovens, televisions, and other devices. You should only use the telephone during an extreme emergency.

Avoid Mobile Homes.
If you live in a mobile home, you are at a higher risk of being affected by a tornado. If possible, evacuate your family from your home, and seek shelter in a building with a strong foundation. The wind speeds during a tornado can easily overturn or destroy mobile homes, which means that they are not a sufficient source of shelter.

Close Your Windows.
Some people believe that you should leave your windows open during a tornado to “equalize pressure”. This is a myth. Keep your windows tightly closed, and secure storm shutters if you have them. You can try taping your windows, though this is may have minimal effectiveness in the face of flying debris from a tornado.

Find a Safe Room.
If your home has a basement, relocate your family to this location. If not, find a central room in your house, preferably a room with no windows. Many people choose bathrooms, especially those with heavy ceramic bathtubs. If possible, anchor yourself under a heavy piece of furniture, such as a couch or desk. For additional protection, you can cover yourself with a heavy blanket or mattress. Stay in the center of the room at all times, until the tornado threat has passed.

Gather Emergency Supplies.
If possible, construct a family disaster kit before your area is threatened by a tornado. This kit should include food, water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, blankets, medical supplies, and other useful items. If you have small children, you may also want to include comfort items, such as stuffed animals or their favorite books. Children are especially vulnerable during a disaster, and will benefit from small distractions during a tornado.

“Destroyed in Seconds” Tornado Footage from the Discovery Channel

Click here to view the embedded video.

Amazing video of Colerado Tornadoes (May 31, 2010 – watch for a tornado with a rainbow!)

Click here to view the embedded video.

National Geographic Tornado Destruction Footage

Click here to view the embedded video.

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Every year, people around the United States begin preparing for hurricane season. This can involve constructing a family hurricane kit, reinforcing doors, installing storm windows, or other preparations. If you live in an area of the USA called the “Atlantic Basin”, you are already aware of some of the damage that can occur during hurricane season.

When Does the 2010 Hurricane Season Start?

The official dates of hurricane season are:

• June 1st to November 30th

However, these dates are not all-inclusive. It’s still possible for hurricanes to occur before or after hurricane season is officially in progress.

Predictions for the 2010 Hurricane Season

According to several news sources, there may be an above-average number of hurricanes in the Atlantic ocean during the 2010 hurricane season. Colorado State University released a report on April 7th, 2010 that predicted 15 “named storms”, with eight of these storms progressing to become full-fledged hurricanes in the Atlantic. Of these eight hurricane-strength storms, it’s predicted that four will will become severe enough to be categorized as “major hurricanes”. A major hurricane generally reaches Category 3 (111+ mph winds) or higher, according to the Saffir-Simpson hurricane strength scale.

During the 2010 hurricane season, weather experts expect there to be a 69% chance of a major hurricane making landfall along the United States coast. In addition to this, there is apparently a 58% chance that a hurricane will make its way into the Caribbean.

Canal Street in New Orleans, after Hurricane Katrina.

What Causes an Above-Average Hurricane Season?

There are several factors which may contribute to a particularly active hurricane season. However, in reference to 2010, this year’s hurricane season will be affected by predicted surface temperatures in the Atlantic, which are estimated to be above normal. This creates oceanic conditions which are favorable for hurricane development.

How Can I Prepare for the 2010 Hurricane Season?

If you don’t live close to the Atlantic coast, you may not think that you’re at risk for direct contact a hurricane. However, hurricanes can cause strong weather systems, which may affect the area in which you live. No matter where you are, it’s still smart to make basic preparations for hurricane season. Here are some quick tips:

Stock Food and Water.
The American Red Cross recommends that you always have at least enough food and water in your home to feed your family for at least three days. During a hurricane, there may be power outages, roadblocks, flooding and other serious conditions. Stocking bottled water in a cool, dry area can help keep your family safe. Keeping extra canned goods, dehydrated meals, dry foods and other items with a long shelf life is highly recommended.

Plan for a Power Outage.
Even when hurricane season isn’t in session, it’s still important to have items on hand to deal with a power outage. During a hurricane, it’s possible that you may not have electricity for an extended period of time. Make sure that you have flashlights, candles, dry foods, bedding supplies, battery-powered devices and other items close at hand.

Reinforce Your Home.
To deal with the severe weather conditions that occur during a hurricane, many people like to reinforce the structural integrity of their home. This may include installing storm windows, foundation repair, reinforcing doorways, etc. The area of your home that is usually most vulnerable to hurricane damage is the windows, since they can be broken by flying debris.

Be Prepared to Evacuate.
Very few people are ever prepared to quickly evacuate their home in the event of an emergency. If you live in a high-risk area, keep a duffel bag packed with items that you may need in the event of an evacuation. This may include important documents, extra clothes for your family, books, food, water, flashlights, blankets and other items.

Related posts:

1. A Safety Guide to Hurricane Classifications This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
2. How to Keep your Family Safe during a Hurricane This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
3. Should you open your Windows during a Hurricane? This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
4. Assembling a Family Hurricane Kit This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
5. How to Hurricane-Proof your Home on a Budget This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

When an emergency occurs, it’s natural to feel scared, disoriented and panicked. However, something many people don’t consider is how their children will deal with a disaster. The catastrophic earthquake in Haiti was an extremely tragic reminder of how important it is to be prepared, both for you and your loved ones. Even if you don’t live an area that is prone to natural disasters, it’s highly recommended that you take the time to make a disaster recovery plan with your children. If there is a disaster, you want to make sure that your loved ones will be safe. Here are some tips to help form a disaster recovery plan with your family.

Disaster Recovery Plan Tip 1: Be Realistic and Reassuring

There is always a fine line between failing to inform your children of a disaster for emotional protection, and causing your children to become unnecessarily afraid. If your children ask you why your family is making a disaster recovery plan, be honest. However, it’s not recommended that you cause your children to be afraid of a situation that hasn’t occurred yet. For example, a proper explanation would be similar to this:

“I want to do everything to keep our family safe in case something bad happens. That way, we can all be safe if there’s an emergency.”

Children, especially younger children, have some trouble understanding the concept of an emergency. Reinforce the fact that by making a disaster plan, you are taking steps to keep them safe.

Disaster Recovery Plan Tip 2: Go Over Emergency Situations

Depending on where you live, your area may be at risk for certain types of disasters. For example, if you live in the central United States, you may be in “Tornado Alley“, which puts you at increased risk for experiencing a tornado. If you live in a flood zone, it’s best if you go over how to prepare for a flood with your children. Again, it’s best if you are realistic, but not unnecessarily frightening when explaining the concept of a disaster to your children.

Disaster Recovery Plan Tip 3: Organize “Meeting Spots”

Due to school, work and other obligations, many families don’t spend all of their time together. Since there is a possibility that you will be in different places in the event of an emergency, designate a meeting spot. This should be a safe area that is central to all the places that your family travels on a regular basis. However, if your children are in school during a disaster (such as a hurricane or earthquake), it’s best if you tell them that they should stay put. During emergencies, schools are often the first buildings to receive attention from rescue crews.

Disaster Recovery Plan Tip 4: Have an Emergency Contact

In the event that your family gets separated with no communication, designate a person that is out-of-town to be your emergency contact. In the event of an emergency, if your loved ones can’t reunite, they should all call this emergency contact in order to inform them that they are safe. During an emergency, making a local call could be difficult, so be sure your contact is out of town. All of the members of your family should know the name, address and phone number of your emergency contact.

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

According to the American Red Cross, a family that has an earthquake preparedness kit is in a much better position to survive a disaster. Even though it’s possible that an earthquake won’t occur in your area, it’s still highly recommended that you take measures to get you and your family prepared, just in case. The safety of the members of your household should always be your first priority. Here is a general guide for constructing a Family Earthquake Kit, sorted by category.

First Aid Supplies

First aid supplies are extremely important in any type of emergency kit. Many people purchase pre-constructed first aid kits, and believe that the supplies in these kits are sufficient. However, this is not the case. Many commercial “first aid” kits contain tools for dealing with small, non life-threatening injuries. In order to be fully prepared for an earthquake, it’s recommended that your earthquake kit at least contain the following items:

• Butterfly Closures
• Particulate Respirator Face Masks
• Heavy-Duty Gloves (Latex-Free)
• Gauze Roll Bandages
• Gauze Pad Bandages
• Medical Tape
• Alcohol Prep Pads
• Antibiotic Ointment
• Finger Splints
• Heavy-Duty Medical Scissors
• Burn Cream
• Ace Bandages
• Celox (To Stop Bleeding)
• Adhesive Bandages
• Lidocaine (Mild Local Anesthetic)
• Ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Iodine

Water

Something that many people often overlook as being an important part of an emergency earthquake kit is water. However, fresh water is heavy to carry, and may not be able to be transported in large quantities during an evacuation. Because of this, it’s suggested that your emergency earthquake kit contain:

• A reliable, hand-operated water filtration Device
• Extra Filters
• Cleaning solution for the filter
• Bottled Water (Several bottles in the kit, and a large amount for your home)
• Water Purification Solution

Food

Emergency food is another very important component of your family earthquake kit. It’s best to choose high-calorie foods that are lightweight and very nutrient dense. For food, you can choose to add the following items to your earthquake kit:

• MRE Rations
• Freeze-Dried Meals
• Emergency Survival Bars
• High-Energy Granola Bars
• Canned Food

Light/Communication

It’s also important that your earthquake kit contain tools to be used in case of a power outage, as well as a reliable method to keep tabs on any changes in the situation. It’s recommended that your family’s earthquake survival kit contain:

• A Battery/Solar/Hand Operated Radio
• A Hand-Crank Flashlight
• Emergency Candles
• Matches
• Emergency Lightsticks

First-Aid Classes

Though this list covers a lot of the basic items for your kit, they won’t be helpful if you don’t know how to use them. During a natural disaster, it’s human nature to panic. If you aren’t aware of how to properly use the medical supplies in your kit, for example, they aren’t of much use to you or your family.

There are basic first-aid classes offered by many reputable organizations, such as the American Red Cross. In the event of an earthquake, even a small amount of training could save your life, or the life of someone close to you. You can find a list of classes offered in your area by using this link:

Red Cross First-Aid Training

The Red Cross also offers you many ways to help out during an earthquake. You can volunteer, give donations towards earthquake victims, donate blood, or even become an employee. If it’s something you’re interested in, it’s highly recommended that you contact them through their website.

Related posts:

1. Earthquake Safety Tips This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
2. Assembling a Family Hurricane Kit This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

Recently, an earthquake with a 7.0 magnitude level struck the southern section of Haiti. The results were catastrophic, as the citizens were gravely unprepared for such a severe earthquake. Though this disaster may not have struck home, it still should be a sign that being prepared for an earthquake can greatly increase your chances of survival. There are several earthquake-prone areas in the United States, which carry with them an increased risk of suffering from an earthquake. Here are some general tips that you can use to help prepare your home and family for an earthquake.

Prepare for an Earthquake

Anchor Heavy Appliances
If you live in an area that is at an increased risk for earthquakes, it’s highly recommended that you securely anchor any heavy appliances in your home. Many injuries and deaths during earthquakes are a result of heavy objects shifting during the quake. A heavy appliance may be a refrigerator, a bookcase, water heater, generator, or any other object of significant weight.

Smart Decorating
Try to store any heavy objects on low shelves, or in ground-level cabinets. If you have breakable items, try to store them in a cabinet that has a secure lock. Never hang any picture frames, mirrors or other wall decorations over beds, chairs or other areas where a person may be caught unaware.

Know Your Home
Be sure that you know how to shut off the electricity, gas and plumbing to your home. For safety reasons, it’s also best that you share this knowledge with other members of your household. Create a plan for who will handle shutting off utilities in the event of an earthquake.

Stock Supplies
Since an earthquake often disrupts electricity, running water and food supplies, it’s best if you are prepared with supplies. Keep extra food, bottled water, medical supplies and other essentials in a designated area in your home. In many cases, the electricity will go out during an earthquake, which may be for an extended period of time. Be sure that you have enough food, water and supplies to sustain your family for at least three days.

Survive an Earthquake

Stay Indoors
It’s essential that you stay indoors during an earthquake, as long as you are already inside when the quake starts. Move to the central area of the building, trying to stay along a “strong point” in the building’s structure. You will want to stay far away from any doors, windows, chimneys or skylights. In addition to this, be sure not to stay in a room with breakable objects, heavy furniture or a large amount of electrical wiring.

Keep in the Open
If you are outdoors during an earthquake, try to move to an open area free of debris, buildings or trees. It’s also highly recommended that you stay away from power lines, since these may collapse during an earthquake, putting you at risk for electrocution.

If in a Vehicle
If you are in a vehicle, first attempt to move your vehicle to a safe location, away from trees, buildings, bridges or power lines. However, if your vehicle is in immediate danger (due to a fire, fallen electrical wire, shifting ground fissures, etc), don’t be afraid to remove yourself from the area. Far too many people die during earthquakes simply because they are afraid to abandon their vehicle in a threatening situation.

Related posts:

1. How to Make a Family Earthquake Kit This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

If you live in an area that is prone to heavy snowfall, you may already have some experience with severe winter weather. Winter snowstorms can create hazardous road conditions, bring down power lines and delay public transportation. In some cases, a severe storm may even make it near impossible for you to leave your home. To help to keep your family safe during a snowstorm, it’s important for you to be prepared. Getting your home and family ready for a severe snowstorm does not have to be a difficult task, and can be easily accomplished by following these simple steps.

Severe Snowstorm Preparation Step 1 – Watch the News
One of the best ways for you to prepare for a winter storm is to be adequately informed about the weather. As long as you have electricity in your home, be sure to get updates on any winter storms that will be affecting your area. Some storms can change in severity over the course of a few hours, so it’s essential that keep up to date with any changes in the weather forecast.

Severe Snowstorm Preparation Step 2 – Organize a Family Meeting.
Before the storm, it’s important for you to make a general “Disaster Plan” with your family. This may involve educating your children about where to meet in an emergency, or giving other members of your family instructions how to handle being stranded during a snowstorm. In addition to this, it’s also essential that you inform your family in advance of any severe winter storms predicted for your area. This can help you to keep all members of your family at home, and may also make the storm much less scary for younger children.

Severe Snowstorm Preparation Step 3 – Gather General Supplies.
Before a snowstorm hits your area, it’s important that you stock up on a few essential supplies. This can help ensure that if your family does become “snowed in”, you will be able to be comfortable until the storm has subsided. Though this is not a comprehensive list, some of the items that you will want to have on hand are:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-Powered Radio
• Bottled Water (At least a 3 day supply for your entire family)
• Extra Blankets and Sleeping Bags
• Fuel (for wood or gas-powered heating systems)
• Extra Prescription Medication and Baby Formula
• First-Aid Kit
• Fire Extinguisher
• Non-Perishable Food (At least a 3 day supply for your entire family)
• Matches and Long-Burning Emergency Candles
• Manual (not electric) Can Opener
• Snow Shovel

In addition to these items, it’s also recommended that you provide entertainment for the members of your family. Being stuck at home due to severe weather can be frightening, especially for younger children. Plan to play a family board game by candlelight, or purchase glow-in-the-dark paints for your children to play with during the storm. Even though a power outage during a storm can be scary, it can be a great opportunity to spend some quality time with the other members of your family.

Severe Snowstorm Preparation Step 4 – Preparing Your Vehicle.
Before a snowstorm, it’s also very important that you get all of your vehicles equipped to deal with severe weather. Even if you don’t plan to travel during winter weather, it’s still important to be sure that your vehicle can handle being exposed to inclement weather conditions. Some examples of things you can do to prepare your vehicle for a snowstorm are:

• Use dry gas in your vehicle’s gas tank. This will prevent the gas line from freezing.
• Purchase snow tires.
• Keep extra blankets, dry food, water and an emergency kit in the trunk of your vehicle.
• Be sure that your vehicle is parked in an area where it will not be damaged by passing plow trucks.

If you do have to travel, you can read these Winter Driving Safety Tips for how to maintain control of your vehicle during hazardous road conditions. For a more comprehensive explanation of winter vehicle maintenance, you can also refer to these 5 Essential Winter Vehicle Safety Tips.

Related posts:

1. An Explanation of Winter Weather Safety Advisories This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

During inclement weather conditions, safety must be your first priority. A hurricane in your area can be devastating, especially if you have not adequately prepared your family on how to best ensure their safety. Technically, a hurricane is classified as being a tropical weather system that has wind speeds of 74 mph or greater. Because hurricanes have the potential to be extremely dangerous, it’s best if you are familiar with some general tips that will help you to keep your family safe during a hurricane.

Hurricane Safety Tips #1 – Evacuation
If an evacuation takes place in your area, you may only have a short amount of time to grab essentialbelongings and vacate the area before a hurricane hits. Because of this, it’s best if you have a plan for evacuation situations that you discuss with your family. If you will be evacuating in your own vehicle, try to instruct each family member on what they need to take with them. It’s best if you only take essential documents (passport, licence, birth certificates, etc), warm clothes, emergency supplies and a three-day supply of food and water. It’s best if you have a prepared kit of supplies that you can rely on to meet your emergency supply requirements.

Hurricane Safety Tips #2 – Secure your Home
To help minimize hurricane damage, it’s best if you take certain precautions in order to secure your home. This may involve installing impact-resistant windows, storm shutters, or even using plywood to protect your windows. Be sure that all windows, doors, and other entry points in your home are securely locked, as there are some burglars who may take advantage of vacated homes after an evacuation.

Hurricane Safety Tips #3 – Stay Indoors
If circumstances prevent you from leaving your home, there are several things that you need to do to ensure your family’s safety. Opening windows during a hurricane can actually result in more damage to your home, so be sure to leave your windows tightly shut. Have all of your family members relocate to a central area in your home, preferably a room without any windows. It’s best if you do not go into your basement unless you are advised to do so by the Emergency Weather Service, as this can be a dangerous area if the hurricane causes flooding in your area. Be sure that you have both a flashlight and a battery-powered radio ready, so that you can keep up-to-date with the hurricane’s status in your area. Unplug all appliances, and be prepared to turn off your utilities if instructed to do so by the Emergency Weather Service.

Hurricane Safety Tips #4 – Keep your Family Calm
A hurricane can be a very scary situation, especially for young children in your family. To help keep your family calm during a hurricane, be prepared to provide reassurance and distraction. For younger children, bring a toy or interactive game into the “safe room” in your house. Explain to your children how hurricanes are formed, since understanding the storm can help take away some of their fear. If you are evacuating with your family, bring along a few familiar items that can help your children to deal with being in the evacuation shelter. Keep your family’s mood positive, assuring them that you will do everything you can to be certain that they are safe.

Related posts:

1. 2010 Hurricane Season Predicted to be Above Normal This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
2. Assembling a Family Hurricane Kit This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
3. How to Hurricane-Proof your Home on a Budget This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
4. How to Make a Disaster Recovery Plan With Your Family This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
5. Should you open your Windows during a Hurricane? This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

There are many steps involved in protecting your home against natural disasters. While it’s impossible to have 100% protection from hurricane damage in your home, there are certain steps you may take to improve the overall level of protection of your home. Installing impact resistant windows is an effective method which can decrease the chances that your home will incur damage from hurricane-force winds. While even impact resistant windows aren’t 100% effective against high winds, they can be important for securing the structural integrity of your home during severe weather conditions. In addition to this, they may also provide a level of protection against burglars, since they are much more difficult to break.  Here are some simple steps that you may take to properly install impact-resistant windows in your home.

Step 1 – Understand how Impact Resistant Windows Work.
The most common method that impact-resistant windows utilize to increase durability is a combination of thick laminate film and tempered glass. The laminate can coat the outside of the glass only, or may be sandwiched between two layers of tempered glass, with two more layers of laminate covering the outside of the glass panel. To be certified as impact resistant, most of these windows undergo testing against certain wind speeds and debris impact. An impact resistant window will still break, though will not shatter like a normal one.

Step 2 – Purchasing Impact Resistant Windows.
Impact resistant windows are commonly sold in home renovation supply stores, though may also be available from retail companies that specialize in windows. When choosing to purchase one, be sure to evaluate the impact rating of it to ensure that it will meet your home protection needs. Be sure to measure your existing windows before you make your purchase, which will help you to be certain that the new ones that you buy will be an exact fit.

Step 3 – Pre-Installation Preparations.
Before installing an impact-resistant window, there are some preparations that you need to make. The first, and most important is the removal of the existing one that you will be replacing. Be sure to preserve the integrity of your home’s structure while removing the window, in order to ensure that the impact-resistant window will be secure. In order to help enhance the protection of your home, you may also choose to reinforce the area which will surround the frame of your impact-resistant window, using sturdy materials.

Step 4 – Installation.
Installing impact-resistant windows is a job which requires at least two people. After the original window is removed, fit the new impact-resistant window in its place. Using thin wedged blocks, also called “shims”, you may hold the window in place while securing it to the frame with nails or screws. Once the window is secure in its frame, you may begin sealing it with silicone caulk. This will prevent air or drafts from entering your home, which is an effective way to reduce your heating bill. Once the caulk is dry, you may also choose to add insulation before covering and painting the area around your new impact-resistant windows.

Related posts:

1. Should you open your Windows during a Hurricane? This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
2. How to Hurricane-Proof your Home on a Budget This post is originally authored at the home security blog...
3. How Security Windows Are Made This post is originally authored at the home security blog...

This post is originally authored at the home security blog at FamilyHomeSecurity.com.

When disaster strikes, you may have only seconds to make decisions that will affect your family’s safety. As a general estimate, it is said that approximately 75 people die from floods each year. Flash floods are among the most dangerous types of floods, since they appear suddenly and without warning. If a flash flood strikes while you are inside your home, there are several tips you should follow in order to maximize your chances of survival.

What Defines a Flash Flood?

To understand why flash floods are so dangerous, it is important to first understand how flash floods are different from normal floods. By definition, a flash flood is a large amount of above-ground water that results when the ground becomes excessively saturated by water. This above-ground water accumulates at such a rapid rate, that runoff from this excess water collects in low-lying areas. This creates a torrent of moving water which can strike with little or no warning. This is unlike normal flooding, which usually accumulates gradually enough that it can be predicted farther in advance.

When do Flash Floods Occur?

In most cases, a flash flood will occur during weather conditions that involve rapid accumulation of rainfall or excess moisture. It is common for flash floods to occur during the spring months, when the ground is still too frozen to absorb excess water from heavy rainfall.

What should I do during a flash flood?

If you are trapped in your home during a flash flood, there are several simple things you can remember in order to improve your chances of survival.

1. Stay Calm.
Despite the seriousness of your situation, it is essential that you don’t panic. This is especially important if you are trying to help keep other family members calm.

2. Have a Plan Ready.
The best way to ensure that you don’t panic during a flash flood is to have a pre-organized plan. If there is no high ground that is within a safe distance of your home, you may have to simply try to move yourself and other family members to the highest point of your home. Though it’s recommended that you move to the roof, if you can not do so safely, try to instead stay in an attic or top floor. However, be sure that this floor has a roof access point that you can use if the situation becomes too dangerous. Many of the people that die during floods in their homes become trapped due to not having a way to escape the area that is flooding.

3. Be Prepared.
It’s best to have a ‘Family Disaster Kit’ ready just in case of emergencies such as flash floods. This should include medical supplies, a three-day supply of food and water, a waterproof battery-powered radio, a flashlight, candles and luminescent glow sticks. If you wish, you can also stock enough life vests for all members of your family, in case your entire area becomes completely submerged.

When to Leave your Home

In general, it’s highly recommended that you leave your home if it is inside the projected flash flood zone, and search for higher ground. Since a flash flood can strike without warning, do not try to save your personal possessions. Take only essential items such as certified documents, your emergency kit, and warm clothes. However, if you are trapped inside your home with no time to find higher ground, you can follow the steps above to help to ensure your chances of surviving a flash flood.

Related posts:

1. Flood Protection This post is originally authored at the home security blog...