It's July, and there are no significant storms in the Gulf to worry about, so now is the perfect time to think about preparing your landscape for hurricane season is an essential step in protecting your property and ensuring your family's safety. Here are some steps you can take to prepare your landscape:

Trim and Prune Trees: Trim back branches close to your house or hanging over power lines. Prune dead or weak branches to prevent them from becoming hazardous during strong winds. Remove any damaged or diseased trees that could potentially fall during a storm.

Secure Outdoor Furniture and Equipment: Move outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, or other loose items indoors or to a safe storage area. Secure larger items that cannot be moved, such as sheds, by anchoring them to the ground.

Clear Gutters and Drains: Clean your gutters and ensure they are debris-free for proper drainage. Clear any clogged drains around your property to prevent water buildup and potential flooding.

Reinforce Fences and Structures: Inspect your fences, gates, and other outdoor structures for damage or weakness. Reinforce them as necessary to ensure they can withstand strong winds. Consider installing hurricane straps or clips to reinforce your roof and secure it to the frame of your house.

Install Storm Shutters or Plywood: If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, consider installing storm shutters on your windows. Alternatively, you can pre-cut and label plywood sheets to cover your windows and protect them from flying debris.

Secure Outdoor Lighting and Fixtures: Remove any outdoor light fixtures, decorations, or signs that could become projectiles in high winds. If removing them is not possible, make sure they are securely fastened.

Maintain Drainage Systems: Ensure that all drainage systems, such as ditches and culverts, are clear of debris and in good working condition. Proper drainage will help prevent water accumulation on your property.

Store Hazardous Materials Properly: If you have any hazardous materials stored outdoors, such as fuel, chemicals, or propane tanks, ensure they are held securely in a well-ventilated area away from potential floodwaters.

Create a Survival Kit: As part of your overall hurricane preparedness, assemble a survival kit that includes essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and essential documents. Store this kit in a safe and easily accessible location.

Stay Informed: Stay updated with weather reports and follow instructions from local authorities regarding evacuations or other safety measures.
Remember, it's always better to be prepared well before a hurricane. 

Start your preparations early in the season, before any potential storms are on the horizon. If you need some help, be sure to call your friends at ELT Landscape.