by Mark Stafford

Created on: February 03, 2007   Last Updated: May 24, 2009

As a native Floridian, born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale since 1967, I have experienced a hurricane or two. Number one, a hurricane is not to be taken lightly. If a hurricane is approaching, the forecasters are not kidding.It's going to happen.

Everyone in Florida can afford expensive hurricane shutters, so a good alternative is plywood. In the case fo an approachig storm, "how your home looks" should be the last thing you are concerned with, as long as you are safe.

Tape on the windows will offer no protection, while plywood, although not very pleasing to the eye, works quite well. Of course you should plan ahead for this, especially after what we have seen from the recent storms (Frances, Charely, Jeanne, Wilma, and Katrina), which have reminded us that Mother Nature doesn't play around when it comes to destructive ability.
Plywood is strong, affordable (before hurricane season),and offers great protection. It can also be reused.

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