RICHMOND— The Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1 and will run through Nov. 30.

Because wind and rain from hurricanes or tropical storms can cause significant damage to personal property, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety encourages property owners to strengthen the critical elements of their buildings to protect them from hurricane damage.

The roof is a building’s first line of defense against storms, making it one of the most vulnerable points on a home or commercial building. Roof cover damage occurs in the vast majority of wind-related claims, and a compromised roof can allow high winds and wind-driven rain to enter a building.

“Roof damage is the most common claim we see after a hurricane,” said Sam Rooks, vice president of underwriting and policy services for Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co., a member of IBHS. “Damaged roofs allow water to creep in and cause even more damage to a home.”

It is important to reinforce the roof well in advance of a hurricane watch. Protecting all openings on a home or building from high winds and flying debris also is important. Failure of a large window or door can result in pressurization inside a building and the potential for damage.

Prepare surrounding property before a storm by limiting the sources of windborne debris. Secure any loose or weakened parts of fences, and trim trees and shrubbery. If a storm is imminent, remove objects such as flags, lawn furniture and bird feeders. Tie down anything like a grill or satellite dish that cannot be moved easily, Rooks said.

For additional tips on how to successfully protect your home, visit disastersafety.org/hurricane.

Media: Contact Rooks at 804-290-1372.