Through the advancement of new products, such as SafeHarbor® Vinyl Impact Windows & Doors, and the evolution of building codes in costal regions, now more than ever there are opportunities for you to safeguard your new or existing home from hurricane damage.

If you're building a new home, or upgrading an existing structure, the first thing you want to do is check with your local government to determine what the building code minimums are for your area.

You also want to be sure your contractor is certified to construct or remodel your home in accordance with local codes. A great resource to start with is the National Association of Home Builders (www.nahb.org).

Be In The Know

Being prepared means having knowledge of what hurricanes are, what they can do and how you can best protect your family and property.

The National Weather Service offers a wealth of information about hurricanes, hurricane preparation, and much more on its site...http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/intro.shtml

Also, be sure you properly insure your property. Some of the hard lessons learned from hurricanes Rita and Katrina are that there is a real difference between hurricane and flood insurance. To learn more about insurance issues in your state, visit the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website by clicking here: http://www.naic.org/state_web_map.htm

Before, during and after a storm strikes, it is critical for you to know what to do in case of an emergency, and know what resources are available to you.