How to Protect and Secure Parking Signs During a Hurricane

Hurricanes are among the most destructive natural events, with high winds, torrential rain, and flying debris posing serious threats to infrastructure. In areas where storms are common, such as along the Atlantic coast and the Gulf of Mexico, business owners and municipalities must take steps to secure property, including parking lot signage. Parking signs are essential for safety, traffic flow, and regulation enforcement, but they can be vulnerable to hurricane damage. Here are several strategies to protect and secure parking signs when a hurricane is imminent.

• Remove Portable Signs

One of the simplest and most effective methods of protection is to remove portable signs. Many businesses use freestanding signs or lightweight signs that are easy to move for temporary purposes. These should be taken down and stored indoors in a secure place well before the storm arrives. This prevents them from being blown away by strong winds, which could turn them into dangerous projectiles.

If your parking lot relies heavily on portable signs, make sure you have a system in place to quickly remove and store them before a storm. It is also important to plan where these signs will be stored, ensuring they are safe and won’t be damaged by water or high winds indoors.

• Reinforce Permanent Signs

Permanent parking signs require extra attention because they cannot be easily removed. The first step in protecting these signs is ensuring their bases are strong and secure. Many parking signs are mounted on poles, which should be deeply anchored in the ground with sturdy materials such as concrete. If the sign is anchored in soil, it might be necessary to reinforce the base with additional concrete or weighted materials to prevent it from being uprooted during a storm.

Additionally, consider using wind-resistant signposts. Certain signposts are designed to bend and flex without breaking during high winds. These are particularly useful in hurricane-prone areas, as they can withstand stronger forces than traditional rigid posts.

• Install Breakaway Mounts

While it might sound counterintuitive, breakaway mounts can actually help protect your parking signs. These mounts are engineered to detach from their base during extreme weather conditions, reducing the risk of damage to the post, sign, and nearby property. By allowing the sign to break away when winds become too strong, you minimize the chances of permanent structural damage. After the hurricane passes, these mounts can often be reattached, keeping repair costs low.

• Anchor Tall Signs with Guy Wires

For tall signs, such as those marking entrances or exits in large parking areas, additional reinforcement may be needed. Guy wires, which are stabilizing cables that anchor a structure to the ground, can be installed to provide extra support. These cables will hold the sign in place during heavy winds and prevent it from tipping over or being uprooted.

Guy wires are especially effective in large, open parking lots where wind speeds can accelerate due to a lack of nearby buildings or trees to buffer the storm. Ensure that the wires are securely fastened both to the ground and to the signpost.

• Shield Signs with Protective Coverings

In some cases, shielding the signs is the best option. Signs that are difficult or impossible to remove can be protected by covering them with heavy tarps or plywood. This prevents flying debris from striking and damaging the sign during the storm. It’s important to securely fasten the coverings so they don’t become dislodged by the wind.

Another option is to use hurricane shutters or metal panels to shield the signs. This is a more permanent solution, often seen on large signs that are vital to a business or municipal operations. These protective coverings are designed to quickly lock into place when a storm is approaching and can be removed or opened after the storm has passed.

• Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Preparation doesn’t begin when a hurricane is forecasted. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for ensuring that parking signs are secure at all times. Before hurricane season begins, inspect each sign for wear and tear, especially at the base and mounting points. Look for any rust, corrosion, or loose bolts that could cause a sign to fail under stress.

By identifying weak points in advance, you can take corrective action before the storm, such as reinforcing posts, replacing corroded parts, or re-anchoring loose signposts. These preemptive measures reduce the likelihood of significant damage when a hurricane hits.

• Post-Hurricane Safety Measures

Once the storm has passed, it’s important to quickly assess the condition of your parking signs. Even if they seem to be intact, the high winds and flying debris might have caused hidden damage. Inspect each sign carefully to ensure it remains securely fastened and has not suffered structural damage.

If any signs have become loose or unstable, they should be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent further damage or injury. Even minor issues, such as bent poles or loosened bolts, should be addressed before reopening the parking area to ensure safety.

Conclusion

Securing parking signs during a hurricane is essential for protecting your property and ensuring safety. From removing portable signs to reinforcing permanent ones, there are several steps you can take to minimize damage. By investing in wind-resistant materials, breakaway mounts, and regular inspections, you can safeguard your signs and reduce the risk of costly repairs.

Being proactive is key—don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for a hurricane. By securing your parking signs in advance, you not only protect your property but also help ensure the safety of your customers and community during extreme weather events.