New Bern, NC – Print out a NOAA Hurricane Tracking Chart: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/AT_Track_chart.pdf
PREPARING FOR A HURRICANE
You need to protect yourself and your home before hurricane high winds arrive. Hurricanes harbor destructive winds, but taking steps to secure your home can minimize or stop the damage to your home.
Step 1 - Secure Windows Against High Winds
You cannot leave your windows unprotected during a hurricane.
Install impact resistant windows.
Purchase or make storm shutters.
Cover windows with plywood.
Step 2 - Reinfore Entry Doors
Doors need heavy bolts attached at both the top and bottom to hold them in place during high winds.
Step 3 - Garage Door and High Winds
The garage door is the largest opening in your home making it the most venerable to high winds. Hurricane winds can blow your garage door in or pull it off creating an entrance for the winds.
Check your garage door for pressure rating.
Strengthen your garage door with a brace.
Purchase a garage door that is impact resistant.
Step 4 - Protecting the Roof
High winds can get under the roof and rip it away from the house. Hurricane straps made from galvanized metal fasten the roof to the walls making the roof more secure during a hurricane. Another way to protect the roof is to use flooring adhesive. Apply it with a glue gun to the underside of the roof where it meets the beams. A gable roof needs added support to withstand high winds. Use two pieces of wood 2 by 4 inches and construct them into the form of an X. Make two sets of the pattern. After they are completed affix them at both ends of the attic to fortify the gable.
Step 5 - Maintain Trees to Guard Against Damage
Check trees for any signs of decay or weakness and have them properly trimmed or removed. A professional can shape trees to make them wind resistant.
Step 6 - Put Things Away
In high winds anything outside can become a flying object that can cause damage or injury. So, put away any outdoor furniture, toys, trash cans, planters or barbecues.
http://www.doityourself.com/stry/high-winds-forecasted-hurricane-proof-your-home#ixzz0ptlWEU00