When devastation is aired on every television screen in America, it’s easy to remember the importance of being prepared. When a tornado rips through a neighborhood like those in Oklahoma, it’s worth stopping to reexamine our own resources, strategies. Things can change in a blink of an eye and it is never too late to prepare for the worst.
Tornadoes occur most frequently from March until June and, while they are more common in the central United States, they can occur almost anywhere in even in large metropolitan cities or those surrounded by mountains.
Before a Tornado
Prepare yourself and your family before a tornado so you are ready for the worst. Teach your family and children the best places to go in case of a tornado while you are at home. Establish a meeting spot once the storm has passed to ensure that your family knows where to find one another.
Before Mother Nature strikes, learn her warning signs. Signs of tornadoes include dark, greenish skies, large hail, a low rotating cloud, and a loud roaring sound, like an oncoming train.
During a Tornado
As soon as a tornado has actually been sighted, find shelter immediately. Do not try to outrun it, move quickly to an underground basement or an enclosed, windowless area of your home or office. Get out of your car and seek sturdy structure immediately. If you’re outside, stay as low to the ground as possible and avoid trees and cars.
After A Tornado
Stay in your shelter until after the storm is over. Check those around you for injuries and begin administering basic first aid if you’re able. If you’re injured, stay put until emergency personnel have arrived. Pay special attention when you go outside. Look for downed power lines and stay away from puddles with wires in them. Do not use any matches or lighters, there may be leaking gas pipes or fuel tanks nearby.
Insurance and Tornados
Damage caused by tornadoes is covered under standard homeowners, business and comprehensive auto insurance policies. Contact your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible and let them know the extent of the damage.
After large natural disasters, insurance companies are ready to handle large volumes of claims and will handle your needs on a priority basis, reaching out to those with the worst losses first. If you have vacated the premises, make sure your insurance representative knows where and how to contact you. You may be covered for additional living expenses such as hotel bills, meals, and other expenses.
It is best to talk to your insurance agent before tragedy strikes to ensure you have adequate coverage to take care of yourself and your family to get you back on your feet as soon as possible.
By Matt Reynolds - Google+