Why Battening Your Windows Can Save Your Home
As Jamaica prepares for another hurricane season, which officially begins on June 1, the experience of Hurricane Melissa continues to underscore the critical importance of early preparation and disaster readiness.
The hurricane, which caused widespread destruction across several communities in western Jamaica, reinforces the need for Jamaicans to take more proactive steps before severe weather conditions develop.
According to forecasts from Colorado State University, the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to produce 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes classified as Category 3 or stronger.
Against that backdrop, Kerry Scott, Head of Real Estate and Properties at JN Properties, emphasised that hurricane preparedness must be treated as a priority, with homeowners and businesses applying the lessons learnt from Hurricanes Beryl and Melissa to strengthen their readiness ahead of future storms.
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“One of the major takeaways from Hurricane Melissa is that preparation cannot start when a hurricane warning is issued. Property owners need to consistently assess and maintain their homes and buildings throughout the year to reduce vulnerability,” Mr Scott stressed.
Among the recommendations Mr Scott highlighted is battening down windows ahead of approaching hurricanes. Where hurricane shutters can be installed, he also recommended that owners invest in having them.
“Battening down or installation of shutters is one of the most effective ways to reduce structural damage during a hurricane. Once windows are broken, strong winds can enter the home and increase internal pressure, which may lead to serious structural damage, including sections of the roof being lifted,” he explained.
“Debris can easily enter through broken windows and can cause serious injuries. Windows that are battened down can significantly reduce the risk of glass shattering, thus protecting persons inside,” he added.
Mr Scott noted that securing windows helps minimise water damage inside homes.
A Survivor’s Account: The Cost of Not Battening Down
“Broken windows allow water to enter which can destroy furniture, appliances, flooring, and electrical systems. If the windows are properly secured then it will help to reduce those risks considerably.”
He also pointed out that broken windows following a hurricane become more vulnerable to intruders, particularly when communities may be without electricity.
Alicia Cognette-Ferguson, a Member Service Representative at the Savanna-la-Mar branch of JN Bank, recalled the devastating impact Hurricane Melissa had on her home in Westmoreland. All windows, except a small bathroom window, were shattered by wind and debris. She also lost her roof.
“I could have gotten killed because a window shattered on me. I got cuts from the broken glass. When the window broke out, the force of the wind lifted me in the air and I hit my back against the door and I fell on the floor,” she shared.
Reflecting on the experience, she believes that battening down the windows beforehand could have reduced some of the losses she faced in the aftermath of the storm.
“I think it would have offered some protection,” she said adding that six sheets of zinc from her neighbours’ roof, awning and other debris were blown inside through the broken windows.
She shared that she will be taking a much more deliberate approach to preparedness this hurricane season by battening down her windows.
Mr Scott encouraged property owners to implement practical preparedness measures early, so that securing their homes can be done more quickly and efficiently whenever a hurricane threatens the island.
“Have precut plywood boards ready in advance and instal simple sliding or track systems on top and below windows. This allows the boards to be quickly and efficiently slotted into place when a hurricane is approaching, without the last-minute rush or risk of improper installation,” he explained.
About JN Properties
With oversight responsibility for a portfolio of more than 130 residential and commercial properties, JN Properties personnel have extensive experience in the areas of property management and rental administration. The company offers a range of services, including property, construction and project management, real estate brokerage, property development, and advisory solutions. Visit jnpropertieslimited.com for more information.