WINDOWS

BEFORE THE STORM

• Walk around your home and inspect your windows for vulnerabilities.
• You should have a plan in place to properly shutter or board all your windows. Metal hurricane-resistant shutters are preferred. Make sure shutters have the Miami-Dade County Product Approval or a Florida Building Code Produce Approval. Shutters should be installed by a licensed professional and inspected by a government agency such as your city's building code department. If you use plywood, make sure it is at least 5/8" thick and use the proper anchors and support beams.
• If you already have shutters, make sure they are in good working condition. For accordion or roll-down shutters, test to see if they open and close easily, clear track of obstructions and lubricate. For panel shutters, check for excessive wear or rust on connectors.
  

DURING THE STORM

• Draw curtains or shades to act as a barrier to broken glass.
• Taping windows is not recommended as it does not prevent windows from breaking.
• Never open windows during a hurricane to equalize pressure between the inside and outside of your home. It is not necessary and could be a dangerous mistake.
• Seek shelter in a room without windows.
  

RELATED RESOURCES

Updated June 2008

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