Tips for Tornado Safety
If you live in the Midwest you are not a stranger to tornadoes. However, tornadoes can strike virtually anywhere in the United States, whether it be by a freak occurance or if you are in tornado alley. Are you prepared to take action if a tornado comes your way? You will be if you follow these tips for tornado safety.
Make a plan. Sit down with your family and make a plan for where your family will meet and where you will go when the sirens go off.
Choose a safe haven. The safest place to go when you are in the path of a tornado is to a basement. If you do not have a basement, you should go to the lowest level of the room. A hallway closet or interior room is the best place to go when a tornado is approaching. If you live in a trailer or mobile home, you must evacuate. Go to a shelter or nearby church.
Prepare a disaster kit. When you have your safe haven chosen, prepare a kit that will include a first aid kit, a flashlight, bottled water, a battery powered radio, and candles.
Shield yourself. When in the safe room, protect yourself by putting your head down. If you have quick access to blankets or pillows, you should place them over your head and body.
Act fast. It is important to take the sirens seriously. Do not worry about possessions; the most important possession is your family and its safety. Additionally, do not worry about opening windows; it will not save your home.
After the sirens end. When the siren ends, be aware that the tornado may not be over. Use you battery operated radio to update you on the conditions outside before leaving you safe haven.
Leave you safe haven with caution. When leaving you safe haven, make sure you leave cautiously. Broken windows or debris may be throughout your home and the surrounding neighborhood. Check any gas valve connections to ensure that they are not damaged, if so immediately turn the gas off. Take pictures of any of the damage to turn into your insurance company.