Mitigation actions to reduce the risk of damage to structures from these winds requires connecting and reinforcing the connections between the main parts of a structure to create a continuous load path.

When all of the connections are properly reinforced, wind loads can be effectively transferred from the top of the structure to its foundation in the ground. The important connections in this path are:

• Roof to upper floor walls
• Upper walls to lower walls
• Lower walls to main floor
• Main floor to foundation

Metal brackets and straps, often called “hurricane straps,” are used to strengthen these connections. To be effective, these brackets and straps should be attached at the studs and rafters, not to the plywood sheathing.

When all of the connections are properly reinforced in this manner, a building is less likely to collapse.