The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is encouraging homeowners to take steps to reduce the risk of wind damage to their properties.
The department recently shared five home improvement tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, designed to help protect homes during high-wind events.
The first recommendation is to reinforce the home. FEMA suggests retrofitting homes with structural improvements, including installing metal straps to connect roof beams to the structure. These improvements can help prevent strong winds from lifting the roof off a home.
Homeowners are also encouraged to reinforce exterior doors, particularly garage doors, which can fail under wind pressure. FEMA recommends using additional bracing for garage doors and strengthening double-entry doors with heavy-duty deadbolts, slide bolts, and longer hinge attachments.
A third recommendation is to protect windows from windborne debris. Storm shutters, shatter-resistant film, and stormproof high-impact glass can help prevent windows from breaking.
FEMA also recommends trimming tree branches that could pose a threat to homes and securing outdoor furniture and fuel tanks that could become projectiles during high winds.
The fifth recommendation is to review homeowners insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for high-wind events and other disaster risks.
Residents are reminded to check with their local permitting office before beginning home improvement projects.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security also noted that FEMA offers assistance that may help make mitigation improvements possible.
FEMA specialists are available at in-person events to provide disaster assistance. Residents can find current event locations and hours by visiting on.in.gov/August2026Disaster.
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