How to Brace a Yard for a Windstorm

Winds that whip up to 70 mph are not uncommon in many areas. In New Mexico’s High Plains or on the coast, those gusts can hit 90 mph or more. Just because your favorite cowboy hat or toupee may sail away doesn’t mean your yard has to suffer. If you know high winds are going to hit, you can brace your yard for a windstorm with a few easy steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Heavy rocks
• Garage or other storage area
• Hammer and nails
• Common sense

1. Take down the tall or dangling things. These items include shade umbrellas, chintzy windchimes, yard signs and the hammock swing that always bangs into your back window. Don’t just fold up the umbrellas, either. I’ve seen a folded-up umbrella go over, taking the whole glass table with it.

2. Secure lightweight items. Pile some rocks on the kiddie pool, the hollow yard ornaments and the lounge chair that always flips over and knocks into your house.

3. Roll up any sunshades that are attached to your porch area. Shutter the shutters that are stuck to your house. If anything is none too secure, add a nail or two.

4. When in doubt, take items that could be blown to smithereens and store them in your garage, shed or even kitchen if need be.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have any trees that are not stable, use a stake and heavy twine to secure them upwards. Move anything from the path in which it would fall if it fell.
• Pets can get freaked out by windstorms. Make sure to secure any gates so they don’t fly open and the pets fly out.
• Never underestimate the power of the wind.