Tornadoes are a fact of life for many who live in Kansas. While they can create thrilling, natural spectacles, they can also cause serious destruction if homeowners don’t take steps to reduce their impact. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to prepare your home before a tornado to ensure that it comes out unscathed.
The primary concern when a tornado threatens is to make sure that your property is secure. Start by reinforcing windows and doors with protective shutters or coverings. Next, make sure the exterior walls of your home are secure and that emergency kits are in place. You should also invest in a storm shelter to provide protection when necessary.
If a storm is imminent, it’s a good idea to consider investing in additional supplies such as heavy-duty tarpaulins and debris nets. These can be used to cover windows and other vulnerable spots in the house and can help to minimize any damage. Additionally, storing all irreplaceable mementos, such as photographs, in waterproof cases can help to protect them if a tornado should strike.
Have an Emergency Plan in Place
An important part of preparing for a tornado is to have an emergency plan in place. This plan should outline what your family should do before, during, and after the storm. Consider having an emergency kit stored in a safe, accessible place that includes items such as a first aid kit, medication, water, and nonperishable foods. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where the kit is located and can grab it quickly if needed.
Your plan should also contain contact information for family members, neighbors, and local government officials. Knowing the numbers of emergency services such as the police, fire department, and utility companies can be helpful if you need to contact them in an emergency.
Check Structural Integrity of Your Home
Regular structural assessments of your home should be conducted to ensure it is up to standards and able to survive the intense winds often caused by tornadoes. Pay particular attention to the roof, foundations, walls, and windows. Structural damage can weaken the home’s defenses and can be costly to repair. Make sure to have a professional come out to conduct a detailed inspection on a regular basis.
It’s also important that your home is properly anchored to the foundation. Some areas require that homes have a special anchoring system that keeps them secure and less susceptible to the force of a tornado. Additionally, some utility lines may need to be buried to prevent them from becoming damaged by high winds or debris.
Pay attention to the weather so you can spot potential signs of an approaching tornado. Study the behavior of local weather and be aware of any warnings or alerts. Utilizing the latest technology, such as weather radios and apps can increase your warning time and provide necessary evacuation information.
Reduce Damages with Simple Precautions
- Reinforce windows and doors with protective shutters or coverings
- Secure exterior walls of your home
- Invest in a storm shelter
- Invest in additional supplies like heavy-duty tarps and debris nets
- Store all irreplaceable mementos in waterproof cases
- Have an emergency plan in place
- Have an emergency kit stored in a safe, accessible place
- Conduct regular structural assessments of your home
- Install special anchoring system for homes in some areas
- Bury utility lines for additional protection
- Utilize the latest technology for alerts
By taking the appropriate precautions, homeowners in Kansas can make sure that they will be prepared for whatever Mother Nature has to offer. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can safeguard your home and ensure your family’s safety against the ravages of tornadoes.