How to Prepare for a Tornado

When warm weather starts to roll around, the skies can turn dark at a moment's notice. Before you know it, a simple thunderstorm can turn deadly. If you live in an area that is prone to tornadoes, you need to have a plan in place. Let's take a closer look at ways to prepare for a tornado.

Choose a Safe Place

If your town has a storm shelter, you want to plan to head to that area as soon as the warning is given. Unfortunately, there's not always time to head to a shelter. This means you need to know where the safest place is in your home. If you have a basement, that's your best bet. If not, you want to choose a room with the least amount of windows. An area located in the center of your home, such as a closet, is perfect. If you're caught out in your car, you want to run for the nearest shelter.

Gather the Things Needed to Ride Out the Storm

You want to have everything you need in easy reach. This means building an emergency kit that includes flashlights, candles, batteries, matches, a battery-powered radio, first aid kit, can opener, bottled water, and canned food. This will allow you to keep track of the storm and know when it's safe to leave your basement or other safe area of your home.

Be Prepared for Power Outages

After a tornado, it can take days or weeks for power to be restored. This is why you always want to keep a stock of canned/dry food on hand along with bottled water. These items will be hard to find after the tornado. Many stores will be closed or sold out of the items you need. Be proactive and keep your home well stocked.

Have Your Most Important Documents Handy

You want to make sure to have your insurance policies and other important documents in a safe place that is easy to grab should you need to vacate your home. This makes it much easier to file claims should your home and/or vehicle be damaged or destroyed during the tornado. You also want to make sure you have your license and social security card on you.

A tornado can completely destroy the things you know and love, but taking the time to be prepared can save you and your family's lives. Take the time to be proactive so you can weather out the storm and the aftermath.