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Hurricane Shutter Safety
Hurricane shutters are used to protect doors and windows from wind-borne objects and to prevent damage
caused by sudden pressure changes when windows or doors fail. Shutters can be made of metal, wood or plastic
and are available in different styles; the most common are steel or metal panels, accordion style and roll-down.
Tribal building codes now require hurricane shutters for all new home construction.
If you’re using plywood to cover windows and doors, select at least 5/8” stock. Pre-drill holes into the plywood
sheets and into your masonry and use screws and anchors to secure the plywood; masonry nails are not
recommended as they can fail in strong winds.
If you have metal shutters, handle them only with heavy work gloves. The panels are heavy and the edges can
be sharp. When you use a ladder, make sure you work with a buddy who holds and stabilizes the ladder. Emergency
rooms in South Florida report a number of injuries every hurricane season due to falls from ladders.
When a storm has passed and it’s safe to venture outside, remove the shutters or plywood from at least one
window or door in every room. A fully shuttered house may be safe in a hurricane, but presents multiple hazards
after the storm or threat has passed. |
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