Storm Preparation
While it's not possible to predict or prevent a tornado or other natural disaster, being prepared can help you weather the storm. Here are a few simple storm preparation tips:
Storm Preparation Tip 1: Develop a Family Emergency Plan
Your family may not be together when a tornado or storm occurs, so develop a family emergency plan in advance. Discuss how your family will contact one another in different situations. It may be easiest to designate a long-distance friend or relative for each family member to contact in the event of an emergency, so that person can help communicate among separated family members. Be sure each person knows the phone number of the emergency contact.
Storm Preparation Tip 2: Create a Safe Area in Your Home1
Tornados can destroy everything in their path. Talk with your family about how to stay safe during severe storms, and if you have pets, determine how you'll protect them, too. Designate a safe area within your home for all family members to gather.
- If you have a basement, that's generally the safest option. Go downstairs and take shelter under something sturdy, such as a staircase. Use a mattress or sleeping bag for cover. Know where heavy objects are on the first floor, like a refrigerator, and avoid being directly below them, as they may fall through a weakened floor.
- If you can't take shelter in a basement, avoid windows. Go to the lowest level and use a center room, such as a bathroom or closet, under a stairwell or an interior hallway. A bathtub can provide some protection, but cover yourself with a mattress, rugs or blankets.
Storm Preparation Tip 3: Take Inventory of Your Belongings
Create a list of valuable items in your home, such as electronics, appliances, furnishings and collectibles. In the event of a disaster, remembering the contents of your home and their value will be important in determining your total loss. Our home inventory is a simple way to create a detailed list of your property and possessions.
Storm Preparation Tip 4: Put Together a Storm Emergency Kit
Before storm season hits, take the time to put together things you might need in case of a disaster. See our suggestions for a simple storm emergency kit.
The bottom line in storm preparation is to make sure your family knows the plan. Before severe weather season hits, it's also good to review your insurance coverage.
1 "Tornado Safety" by Roger Edwards, Storm Prediction Center, Norman, OK, ,http://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/safety.html.
