by Shelia West

Created on: August 30, 2008   Last Updated: October 07, 2008

Many people may think boarding up after a disaster is like closing the barn door after the horse escaped. What you have to remember is that just because that horse escaped, it doesn't mean you don't have other horses. Often, after a disaster, homes may have broken windows and doors. A broken window or open door is an invitation to a thief. And sad as it may seem, looters do prey on people after a disaster. Since police are often so busy helping people after a disaster, looters just help themselves. They will often rob and destroy houses simply because no one is there to stop them.

So it makes perfect sense to board your home up after a disaster. This helps deter any further destruction from humans as well as maintaining what precious little stuff you have left. It may save additional windows or doors from being broken out but kids or thieves looking for somewhere to rob. By boarding it up, you make it harder for a thief to get inside the house. And thieves don't like to work. They will look for the easiest targets. They will often pass a boarded up house by to hit one that is open.

It also will help the insurance company know what damage was done by the disaster. An insurance company can often be a hassle to deal with. By boarding up and protecting your home as much as possible, your insurance claim may be easier to process. It will also give you a little more peace of mind in a time of tremendous turmoil.

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