Set the alarm for 12:45 p.m.

Web alarm clock for 12:45 p.m.

Before the midday rain reaches your windows, you are getting ready to close the shutters at 12:45 pm. Setting the alarm now lets you continue preparing lunch or clearing things from the sill without repeatedly checking the clock. The reminder still leaves a quarter hour before 1:00 pm, so you can secure each room calmly rather than reacting when wind starts pushing rain indoors.

For closing the shutters, match the alarm sound to what the house will be like when it rings. A gentle tone may be enough in a quiet room, while a persistent sound suits a kitchen with an electric fan, running tap, or family conversation. Keep the volume clearly audible without making it startling. Because a browser alarm cannot alert you after its page is closed or the phone falls asleep, your shutter reminder could be missed; keep the page active and the phone awake until 12:45 pm.

Once the shutters are closed around midday, check whether the rain has left the rooms feeling still and humid. If the air outside is already cooler and the downpour is not blowing toward a sheltered opening, a small gap elsewhere can help fresh air move through. Otherwise, leave the exposed side secured and wait for the rain to ease before opening it again.