Here are eight home preparedness tips that you should definitely start preparing for before the next storm hits.

1. Install storm shutters

One of the top tips we hear over and over again from experts is to make sure your windows are protected from debris.

The best way to do this is to install storm shutters, which are better than storm windows.

"If you live near the coast, you already know that wind can seriously threaten your home," says Andrew Leeds, vice president of claims at Plymouth Rock Homeowners Insurance.

You'll want to cover up your windows and doors. I recommend installing steel or aluminium storm shutters on windows and doors.

2. Check the roof

If you live in an older home and aren't sure how old your roof is (or the actual condition of your roof), it's a good idea to address the issue before the next big storm hits.

The reason. An old roof can lead to leaks, missing shingles and a host of other problems during and after a hurricane.

Liz says, "Be sure to check your shingles. If you haven't had your roof replaced or inspected in a while, hire a professional roofing company to proactively check it out."

3. check old doors

Check all doors that connect the interior and exterior, including garage doors. If you find any weak or old doors, consider replacing them.

Leeds says, "Upgrading regular and garage doors can save you from major damage. If your doors are in good condition, replace the door's hinge screws with heavy-duty bolts so they're less likely to blow off in high winds."

Another important tip? Check your garage's rating to make sure it can handle high winds.

Leeds says, "Garages that are structurally weak are easily damaged."

So check your garage door and consider replacing it with one that can withstand high winds.

4. close exterior vents

Even the most seasoned homeowners tend to forget that a house has several vents. Unless you close them before a storm hits, they can easily become an entry point for water and debris.

Lance Sinclair, president of Mr Sparky's, says, "Before a storm hits, identify all the vents in the exterior crawl space." Then tape them shut to keep moisture out.

In addition to the potential for immediate damage, you want to prevent water intrusion from causing long-term problems. Moisture trapped in vents can lead to mould and a host of other problems after a storm.

5. Be prepared for flooding

Anyone who has experienced a major hurricane knows that hurricanes can also lead to severe flooding.

If a home seems particularly vulnerable to flooding, there are several easy-to-deploy flood barriers that go far beyond the traditional sandbags on the market today.

By placing these flood barriers around your home, you can greatly reduce the damage caused by catastrophic weather events.

6 Remove debris from your yard

One of the biggest threats during severe weather is flying debris. Large tree branches, lawn chairs, and virtually anything else left outside and unsecured can cause potential damage to your home during high winds.

Steve Leasure, Vice President of Operations at Rainbow Restoration, says, "Before a hurricane hits, assess your yard, remove any debris, and store any furniture or decorations."

If not cleaned up, these items can become dangerous projectiles. Cleaning up your yard can minimise this risk and simplify clean-up and recovery after a hurricane.

7 Protecting outside vehicles

Along with tree limbs and yard decorations, protecting your outdoor vehicles is an important part of hurricane preparedness and safety.

Leasure says, "The best way to protect outdoor vehicles such as cars, trailers and campers is to keep them in a garage or enclosed storage facility."

If that's not possible, consider parking your vehicle close to a building, which will provide at least partial protection.

Avoid parking under trees and power lines that could be blown down during a storm, and use a stabilising jack or anchoring kit to secure large vehicles to the ground.

8. Prepare for insurance claims

While gathering insurance information isn't strictly home preparation, it's still considered a best practice for those living in hurricane areas.

Leeds says, "Take pictures of your home and belongings before a hurricane hits."

Having a solid record of what you own can speed up the recovery process. Contact your insurance agent immediately after a hurricane and take photos of all damage before you start cleaning up.