Severe weather can strike with little warning, but many of the most damaging impacts are preventable. By taking action now, you can reduce risks to your home, protect your family, and save costly repairs later. Know the hazards that may impact your location and plan ahead before disaster strikes. These mitigation steps can help to strengthen your property before storms, high winds, heavy rain, or winter weather arrive.
Why Mitigation Matters
Mitigation is the proactive work you do before an emergency to limit damage and protect people. While you can’t control the weather, you can control how prepared your home is to withstand it.
Home Mitigation Steps
Trim Large Tree Branches Near Your Home
- Hire a professional arborist for large or hard-to-reach trees that overhang your home or electric wires.
- Remove or shorten branches that hang over your roof or power lines.
- High winds and ice storms can cause limbs to break, leading to roof damage, broken windows, or power outages.
Clear Storm Drains Near Your Home
- Keep leaves, sticks, and trash out of neighborhood drains and curb inlets.
- Blocked drains can cause street and yard flooding, which can back up into basements or crawl spaces.
- Wear gloves and use a rake — never try to reach into a drain.
Keep Fire Hydrants Accessible
- In winter, shovel at least three feet around fire hydrants near your property.
- In summer, clear weeds, brush, or debris.
- Quick access to hydrants can make the difference in an emergency.
Maintain Your Fireplace and Chimney
- Have fireplaces and chimneys inspected by a professional and cleaned at least once a year.
- Remove soot and creosote buildup to reduce the risk of chimney fires.
- Ensure your chimney cap is secure to keep out animals and debris.
Secure Outdoor Items
- Patio furniture, grills, and decorations can become dangerous projectiles during high winds.
- Anchor or store them before a storm is forecast.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
- Clear out leaves and debris so rainwater can flow freely.
- Extend downspouts away from the foundation to prevent water intrusion.
Inspect Your Roof
- Look for loose or missing shingles and have them repaired before a storm.
- A small leak now can become major damage during heavy rain.
Get in the Habit
Mitigation works best when it’s part of your regular home maintenance. Add seasonal reminders to your calendar — for example:
- Spring: Tree trimming, gutter cleaning, storm drain check
- Summer: Hydrant clearing, roof inspection, securing outdoor items
- Fall: Fireplace maintenance, gutter cleaning before winter storms
- Winter: Snow clearance around hydrants, check branches for ice damage
Bottom Line
A few hours of preparation today can save thousands of dollars — and potentially lives — when severe weather strikes. Take the time now to trim, clear, maintain, and secure your property. Your future self (and your neighbors) will thank you.