Tornadoes, among nature’s most destructive forces, present a serious threat to our community when they’re in the forecast. An average of 1,000 are recorded annually in the U.S. These storms bring catastrophic impacts, including deadly flying debris, building destruction, and injuries. Annually, they result in over 1,500 injuries and 80 deaths in the U.S. alone. It’s essential to heed tornado safety information and have supplies for at least three days, including canned goods, water, and medical items. In this blog, we’ll offer practical and pertinent information so you can minimize risks and stay prepared.
Tornado Safety Information Before, During, and After the Storm
Before a Tornado in Sterling
- Find out your community’s tornado risk. Tornadoes are common in Sterling and the surrounding area.
- Design a disaster preparedness plan for your family, and create an emergency kit. Designate an area to seek shelter and where to meet after a disaster. Practice a tornado drill at least once a year. Be prepared to protect your pets in an emergency, too.
- Recognize the signs of a tornado. Indicators include rotating clouds, whirling dust or debris on the ground, and a loud, continuous roar.
- Know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A watch is when the conditions are right for tornadoes to form, and a tornado warning means the approach of an existing tornado.
- Stay informed. Listen to local news weather reports, and heed any warnings. Check the official websites and social media accounts of your city and local government organization.
- Protect your home. Make a list of items to bring inside when a tornado is approaching. Prune trees and shrubs to make them more wind-resistant. Reduce the number of loose items in your yard; install permanent shutters on windows and reinforce garage doors.
During a Tornado in Sterling
- If you’re in a house, avoid windows and go to the lowest area, like the basement. If there is no basement, go to the lowest floor in an interior room with no windows, such as a bathroom or inner hallway.
- If you’re in an office building, hospital, or high-rise building, don’t use the elevator. Take shelter on a lower level, away from windows and glass.
- Get under some form of protection, such as a sturdy table. Crouch down as low as possible and cover your head with your hands.
- If you’re in a mobile home, go to a tornado shelter immediately. Most tornadoes can wreck even a tied-down mobile home.
- If you’re in a car or outdoors, don’t try to outrun a tornado. Get out of the car and find shelter underground or in a nearby building. Don’t go under bridges or highway overpasses. If you can’t get to a safe place, protect your head with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket.
- Listen to alert systems like NOAA Weather Radio for up-to-date emergency information and instructions.
After a Tornado in Sterling
Even after a tornado passes, it’s important to stay alert and use caution when clearing debris.
- Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
- Make sure the storm has passed and go to a safe place. Don’t return home until local authorities say it’s safe. Always check the weather conditions on secure websites, if possible.
- Keep listening for updated information on the disaster. Let your loved ones know you’re safe and check your family’s safety.
- If you are trapped, avoid breathing in the dust by covering your mouth with a cloth or mask. Don’t shout. Send a text, bang on a pipe or wall, or use a whistle instead.
- Stay away from downed wires, damaged buildings, and dangerous debris, like broken glass or sharp objects.
- Don’t use matches, lighters, or candles; there may be natural gas leaks nearby. Use battery-operated flashlights.
- Wear appropriate gear during clean-up, such as thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves.
Need Help With the Property Damage Aftermath? PuroClean Emergency Restoration Services Is Here for You!
When tornadoes and other emergencies leave damage in their wake, count on PuroClean Emergency Restoration Services to be there for you. Our highly trained team specializes in mitigating the aftermath of disasters, including water damage, mold remediation, fire damage restoration, and more. As the “Paramedics of Property Damage™,” we’re available 24/7 to restore homes and businesses throughout Sterling and the surrounding areas. Please call us at (703) 579-8912 to schedule an assessment today.
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