A home should be a sanctuary of safety. Never has this been more true than today, when global climate changes are creating more severe fire, floods and wind. Storm-resistant components may appear in new construction, and building codes are becoming stricter.

The really good news is that insurers are giving discounts for fortified homes. So, if you’re remodeling, consider some disaster-related enhancements. According to experts, if you reinforce your roof, windows and garage door, your house is more likely to survive a mega-storm or storms.

Think about which particular disasters are most likely in your area. Hurricanes? Enhance your wind protection. Earthquakes? Bolt your house to its foundation. And so on.

Link to the insurance industry’s organization: http://www.ibhs.org/

Where is your home most susceptible to wind damage? The windows and doors, right? You can also secure and strengthen individual parts of your structure. If hail is a common event in your area, you might consider an impact resistant roof, using twice the number of nails.

Your garage door is a key candidate for fortification, because it’s often flimsy and easily blown off. First the garage door, then the roof.

Other tools:

“Impact resistant glass,” made of a plastic/glass hybrid.

Impact resistant shutters can cover not only windows, but also doors, vents and gables.

Class 4A shingles, for highest impact and fire resistance.

CO2 and smoke detectors using the newest technology.

AFCI protected wiring

Keep shrubs and hanging branches within a few feet of your house closely trimmed