How to Prepare Your Pool for a Hurricane:

NOAA defines a hurricane as a type of storm called a tropical cyclone, which forms over tropical or subtropical waters.

A tropical cyclone is a rotating low-pressure weather system that has organized thunderstorms but no fronts (a boundary separating two air masses of different densities).

Tropical cyclones with maximum sustained surface winds of less than 39 miles per hour (mph) are called tropical depressions. Those with maximum sustained winds of 39 mph or higher are called tropical storms.

When a storm’s maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph, it is called a hurricane. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating, or category, based on a hurricane’s maximum sustained winds. The higher the category, the greater the hurricane’s potential for property damage.

Many people think the first thing to do when a hurricane is approaching is to drop the water level so the pool will not flood the deck and possibly flood the house. But almost all pools have a method for draining off excess water away from the house.  So draining the pool to prevent flooding of the deck or house should not be a concern.   A larger risk is if the pool is drained too far the pool may “pop” Without the weight of the water the pool can float because of the excessive groundwater from heavy rains. This can be very expensive to repair if this happens.

To prevent damage to electrical components from lighting strikes it is always a good idea to isolate equipment such as pool lighting, automatic chlorinators, heaters, and automation boards.    It is best to turn off the equipment and shut off circuit breakers.

If it is possible remove or wrap in plastic pool pumps, time clocks, light transformers automation boards and any other vulnerable equipment.

Loose items can be dangerous missiles.  Even a Category 1 can have wind bursts that can exceed 90mph which can easily pick up small objects and send them crashing into a window or some other object.  Chairs and tables should be put inside.  As a rule, never put large objects in the pool you risk damaging the pool.

Often in a storm power will go out, and large amounts of debris can be put into your pool.  To help to combat bacteria and algae until the pool can be properly cleaned, you can prepare by adding extra chlorine.  Usually, twice the amount you would normally use.  Extra chlorine is not a problem as it will be used up or evaporate naturally.

Hurricanes can cause falling branches and other flying debris that may damage pool covers. It’s easier to remove debris from the pool than it is to replace a cover

 To protect your screen enclosure look for any low-hanging branches or limbs that could potentially break and pierce the screen.    Create a path of least resistance for the wind by removing the doors or some of the screen panels from your enclosure. This will reduce the strain and tearing on the sceen.