You have options, but the choice is clear.

Impact-Resistant Windows.

Impact-Resistant Windows: while effective, this option is expensive and generally used in high-end homes. Protection is in place at all times but  this laminated glass can impede the ability of emergency services to conduct rescue operations in the event of fire or other imminent danger.

Plywood Boards.

Plywood Boards: while cheap to purchase, plywood boards can be difficult and time consuming to install. Installation requires tools, ladders and fasteners as well as those strong enough to position the boards in place. Also, it is recommended that plywood be at least 5/8” thick in order to provide adequate protection from hurricane force winds and flying debris which adds to the overall weight of the sheet. 

Bahama Awnings.

Bahama awnings are permanently fixed louvered awnings that are mounted to the tops of windows and hinged. Homeowners unlatch them from their awning position and secure them below the windows.

Roll-Down Shutters.

Roll-down shutters are stored in a box above the window and travel along tracks mounted on either side of the window and bolt down at the bottom. They can be made of high-quality metal or PVC. These shutters can be operated electrically or manually from inside the house which can be convenient for the homeowner.

Storm Panels.

Storm panels can be used to cover windows and are available in fabric, corrugated polycarbonate, and corrugated aluminum and steel.  

1a. Fabric storm panels are made from a geosynthetic, PVC coated fabric or Kevlar. They attach around the exterior of windows and doors using grommets and bolts or straps and buckles as an alternative. Fabric is lightweight and can be folded for easy storage.

1b. Corrugated polycarbonate panels are installed in permanently mounted steel tracks bolted to the exterior façade of a home at the top and bottom of the windows and are available in clear, translucent and opaque styles. Corrugated polycarbonate allows light into the home and is relatively lightweight but requires storage space and assistance when installing exterior panels.

1c. Corrugated aluminum and steel panels are extremely strong.  Individual panels typically overlap each other for added strength and are installed in permanently mounted tracks or bolted in place. However, these panels are heavy, require assistance when installing, block light from entering the home and require storage space. 

Accordion Shutters.

Accordion shutters are permanent home additions that are hinged panels housed in a box bolted to either side of a window and operate via homeowners unfolding them and locking them either in the middle or on the opposite end of the window. They are convenient for homeowners as they can be easily closed and locked into place.