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Baton Rouge, LA — With forecasters warning of severe weather in the Gulf region this week, Louisiana residents are being encouraged to take action now to protect their homes and loved ones.

The LSU AgCenter LaHouse Research and Education Center has released a checklist of simple yet critical steps homeowners can follow to help reduce damage and increase safety during storms.

Recommended Preparations:

Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure water drains properly from your roof to prevent leaks and flooding around your home.

Secure Loose Outdoor Items: Patio furniture, grills, and yard decorations can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Bring them inside or tie them down.

Inspect Roofs and Windows: Look for missing shingles or cracks that may worsen during a storm. Patch weak spots and consider using storm shutters or plywood to protect windows.

Prepare for Power Outages: Assemble an emergency kit that includes flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, medications, and backup chargers for essential devices.

Taking time now to make these preparations could make a significant difference when the weather turns severe.

For more information on storm safety and home resilience, visit www.lsuagcenter.com/lahouse.