Hurricanes are a part of life in the Tampa Bay area, but that does not mean hefty pool repair and service bills should be as well. There are a few things you can do that can help reduce the risk of damage.

Well Before The Storm

• Install a safety cover instead of one held in place by water weights. Safety covers are designed to hold in place even through hurricane winds.
• Invest in waterproof plastic for your electrical items, particularly if you can not move them.
• Look into building a pool house to store any furniture, equipment, and other loose items.

Right Before The Storm

• Attach your safety cover and pull taut, but not tight, and pad the edges with towels, pool noodles, or other soft items. If you have a weighted cover, do not put it on, because the high winds can pull it off.
• Remove all loose items, such as skimmer covers, furniture, and toys, and store them in a closed area. Avoid placing them in the pool, itself, as this can cause damage to the lining.
• Shock the pool to prevent contamination.
• Do not drain the filter system, because the added weight from the water will help keep it on the ground.
• Turn off the power to all your electrical systems, and store them in a dry area or wrap tightly in waterproof plastic.
• Add extra water to your pool, instead of draining it. This will keep the pool in place.
• If you have an enclosure, remove panels from each side to create a vent. This will allow wind to pass through and reduce the amount of twisting the frame may experience.

Hurricanes happen, but the above measures can reduce how much damage your pool and pool area suffers.