Checklist: Tornado Preparation
The most frightening thing about tornados and hurricanes is the uncertainty of when one might hit, and how strong it will be. Tornados and hurricanes can level a town in a matter of minutes. While you cannot guarantee that your home will not be damaged in a tornado or hurricane, you can take a few steps to lessen the impact and provide safety for you and your family. Here is a list to help you prepare for either of these natural disasters:
- Have storm shutters installed on all the windows of your home.
- Have a roofing contractor make sure that your roof and gutters are attached firmly to your home and in good shape.
- Secure lawn chairs, grills, children's toys and other items in your yard.
- Have a new garage door installed if your current one does not close tightly or is loose.
- Ensure that your home is anchored to the ground if you live in a mobile or manufactured home.
- Contact a tree trimming service to remove dead and loose branches from trees.
- Have any dead or diseased trees completely removed.
- Shut off all appliances before retreating to a safe room.
- If there is a tornado threat, retreat to a secure area in the basement or to a room with no exterior walls.
- Have the walls and ceiling joists reinforced in your safe room.
- Keep water, canned food, batteries, flashlights, radio, first-aid kit, blankets and important documents together.
-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com