How To Prepare For A Tornado

It's Important To Learn How To Prepare For A Tornado

Yard Safety

Did you know that most storm damage comes from things that are thrown through windows by the wind? If you're wondering how to prepare for a tornado, the first step is to tie down everything that could possibly be lifted by strong winds. If the storm can push over trees, just think of how far away it can sweep those charming benches or your husband's beloved grill!

Clean out your gutters before the storm rolls in. Clogged rain gutters can become quite heavy from the weight of waterlogged leaves, and can easily come crashing down during a storm.

Move your car away from any trees or overhanging branches. If you can, move your car inside your garage or under a carport. Even a medium-sized branch felled by a tornado can cause major damage to your car.

How To Avoid Wind Damage Like This

Water Safety

Don't forget about your water needs when considering how to prepare for a tornado. The American Red Cross says the average person requires a gallon of water per day; half to drink and half for bathroom use.

Make sure you have plenty of spare water by filling up your bathtubs with water to use in the toilets, in case your water gets shut off. I also recommend keeping a little bleach nearby, should you end up using the toilets sans-flushing for more than a day or two.

Store additional containers with fresh water in the freezer. You'll be grateful for this extra drinking water in the event of a tornado induced power outage. When freezing the water, make sure you leave a little extra room in the container so the frozen water can expand without bursting.

Even after the water gets turned back on, remain cautious! Your water quality may not be up to snuff just yet. Storm drainage can contaminate drinking supplies for several days after a tornado hits. I recommend boiling any water you plan to use for cooking, drinking, or even just rinsing an apple!

Electronics

Unfortunately, it's highly likely that you'll lose cell phone reception when those cell towers go down. In planning how to prepare for a tornado, dig out your old landline cord-phone. Although they're outdated and probably very dusty, give these guys some credit! You'll be able to call your loved ones and tell them you're ok even when the power goes out.

It's well worth it to run out and buy a low cost inverter that can be plugged into your auto's lighter socket. From the inverter, you can run an extension cord into the house. Just be sure to start the car from time to time to keep the battery charged. Believe it or not, some cars have enough power to run fridges!

If you have a generator, do not operate it inside of the garage. The rainwater outside will not hurt the generator, but the generator's carbon monoxide inside can kill you. Whatever you do, don't forget to stock up on plenty of fuel to run your generator.

If you do not have a gas stove, pick up a cheap grill to cook with and boil water with! If your power goes out for several days, you'll be eternally grateful for those hot meals!

This maygowithout saying, but I want to remind you anyway: always check all your flashlights before the storm arrives and have spare batteries easily accessible.

Yard Safety Is Key to Tornado Preparedness | Photo via Hamtil Construction

After The Storm

Remain cautious of falling trees for several days once the storm passes through. All that rain makes the trees top-heavy, which puts them at risk for toppling over. I'm not going to advise you stay locked inside for several days like my mother did, but be very careful.

After a severe weather system, all the worst, unlicensed contractors and handymen come out of the woodwork, looking to make a quick buck. Take the time to verify any repair service you may use, and don't go with someone who rushes you.

I hope these tips helped you learn how to prepare for the upcoming tornados. Share them with your friends and family who may find themselves in a storm's path. Let's help our friends in the Southeast; share your own tips in the comments!

And if you need to spruce up your home, check out this great page for DIY home decor tips.