How to make your home safer this storm season

(StatePoint) Wicked weather has been raging across the country this year, and storm and hurricane season now is upon us -- bringing with it threats to homes from highly destructive wind-borne debris.

Homeowners need to know what to do to prepare their houses and property from these dangerous forces of nature.

In addition to following some basic tips to safeguard their home's exteriors, many homeowners are installing storm shelters that are virtually impervious to extreme wind and flying debris.

"Most houses aren't tough enough to resist the destruction that hurricanes or tornadoes can dish out," says Chris Anderson, Du P ont StormRoom Manager. "This is why storm shelters are being installed in record numbers - especially versatile structures that also can be used throughout the year for other purposes, such as a laundry room, closet or bathroom."

Increasingly popular among homeowners are extremely durable shelters, such as the DuPont StormRoom with Kevlar - an in-home shelter manufactured from the same lightweight material used for bullet-resistant vests worn by law enforcement and military personnel.

You can help make your entire home safer from the threats of hurricanes and other storms by following these safety tips from the experts at The National Hurricane Center, DuPont and the Federal Emergency Management Agency:

* Protect and secure the areas where wind can enter. This can be done by reinforcing five critical areas: doors, roof, straps (areas where your roof meets the top of stud walls), shutters or impact resistant windows and garage doors. To learn how to strengthen each of these, visit the National Hurricane Center's Web Site at www.nhc.noaa.gov and click on "Be Prepared" in the menu.

* To protect windows before a storm hits, install hurricane shutters or purchase precut 5/8-inch marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Install anchors for the plywood and predrill holes in it so you can put it up quickly. Remember, tape does not prevent windows from breaking. If you are replacing old window or purchasing new windows consider upgrading to hurricane impact resistant windows so you can have 24/7 protection.

* Ensure your home's exterior siding is well-secured. Also consider dry flood-proofing your home and adding waterproof veneer to exterior walls.

* Consider building or installing a storm shelter. Many storm rooms, such as the DuPont StormRoom with Kevlar, can be equipped with electricity, radio and wireless reception. These extremely sturdy shelters can be specified into new home construction or be retrofitted to an existing residence.

* Trim trees and shrubs around your home to prevent limbs from becoming airborne missiles that could damage your house and belongings. Remove dead limbs and strategically remove branches so wind can blow through.