Storms are likewise awful and could destroy homes and entire communities as well. The rise in these calamities’ occurrences and severity accentuates the need to prepare and protect oneself.
The most vulnerable structures of a house that can be damaged by storms are the windows and securing them is one of the essential precautions that one has to take. Thus, this essay aims to discuss the significance of storm warnings, the need to protect homes using the exterior windows, and several ways of their strengthening.
Storm Warnings
Storm warnings are signals displayed by meteorological departments to create awareness of possible rigorous meteorological conditions. These warnings are critical as they assist in informing the public the type, strength and the extent of damage that is expected from the storm that is on its way so that preventive measures can be put in place by different persons and groups.
Depending on the form and severity of the storm there are various types of storm warnings. These include:
– Severe Thunderstorm Warnings: Means: It is a warning that is given when there is a threat or when there is thunderstorms with hail, strong winds of over 45 mph and lightning.
– Tornado Warnings: Although, it is used where there is sighting of a tornado or even by weather radar.
– Hurricane Warnings: It is a warning given when hurricane like conditions are possible in a given region usually in the next 36 hours.
– Flood Warnings: Given out when there is anticipated floods or when there is actually flooding.
Being familiar with these signals and reporting them can minimize the severity and occurrence of injuries, death, and loss of property.
To prevent any risk in case of a storm warning, there should be prompt compliance with storm safety procedures. Tie outdoors objects to avoid them to be blown by strong winds.
Stock up on essentials: Drinking water, canned/processed foods, medicines, and batteries form the list of essentials that may have to be procured from outside. Having the batteries charged and having a flashlight within easy reach is important. Stay informed for local news and if ordered to evacuate, then one should do so.
It is about developing a family communication plan, as well as about emergency contacts list familiar to all the members. Ensure that work documents are kept in waterproof containers so that they are not destroyed in case of flooding.
If driving, do not attempt to drive through; look for a sturdy building to take refuge in if the cyclone hits. Thus, it is crucial to work towards preparedness, as it will lessen the effects of major storms to a great extent. You can click the link: https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/stormsafe to learn more about storm preparation.
Function of the Exterior Windows in Home Security
Main doors and especially exterior windows can be heavily damaged during a storm. They are able to topple over small objects and blow them into objects causing harm, damage doors and windows, let in water, and compromise on the safety of the intended structure. Hence, one of the best practices of storm protection is reinforcing the structure’s windows.
Such windows expose the following dangers during a storm. Secondly, failure of windows also brings a change in pressure within the premises that will cause devastating structural losses such as roof uplift and wall failure.
Secondly, after breaking a window, for instance, rain water is likely to penetrate into the house and cause immense water havoc to the walls and the floor and any property within the house. Thirdly, the flying glasses in addition, and debris can prove fatal by causing serious injuries to those in the occupants of the building.
Techniques for Strengthening Exterior Windows
Securing the outside glass installations would highly improve the security of homes during a storm. There are several techniques to contemplate of which the following can be categorized according to the degree of its effectiveness: temporary and long-lasting solutions.
Storm Shutters
One of the most common and efficient measures regarding protection of windows is application of storm shutters. There are many kinds, such as accordion shutters, roll down shutters, Bahama shutters as well as colonial shutters. Accordions are fixed and can be easily lowered on the occurrence of a storm situation.
Roll-down shutters are mounted above the window and can be rolled down manually or with a motor. Bahama shutters are hinged at the top of exterior windows and can be propped open for shade or closed for storm protection. Colonial shutters are fitted on the sides so they can be shut and locked before the storm sets in. Storm shutters offer a high level of protection against storms and hurricanes as well as a rich offering of protective items and can be easily installed.
Impact-Resistant Windows
Impact-resistant windows or what is commonly referred to as hurricane windows, is an advanced enhancement of the traditional windows as they provide protection and are able to open during storm weather. Again, these windows entail two or more glass panes and a tough barrier referred to as the PVB or EVA interlayer.
Other advantages of impact-resistant windows are as follows Durability Energy conservation Noiseless UV protection Costing more than general windows, impact windows however, provide long-term safety and security.
Window Film
One external security feature that is quite economical is window film. This transparent film is placed on the glass and aids in the integrity of the glass as it deters into pieces should the occur.
As for window films, they don’t offer as much protection as storm shutters or impact-resistant windows, but they do minimize the chances of injury from flying glass. This is a very swift approach and relatively cheaper than having to involve professionals in the preparation for the storms.
Plywood Covers
Lumber is used in making plywood covers that are normally placed over the windows during a storm, although in a temporary basis. If you choose to use plywood covers for your windows, you have to take measurements of the windows and cut your plywood in away where you have four inches on each side of the measurement.