Preparing For Severe Weather

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

At the Store

Every time someone goes to the store, they should buy a few canned goods and some batteries. Candles are not safe in any storm as wind can knock a lit candle down and possibly start a fire. The sturdier the flashlight is the longer it will last. Canned and bottled drinks are also good to store just in case. Packaged snacks will tide most anyone over until the power comes back on or in case someone is stuck inside a room. A weather radio or a regular radio with batteries keeps people informed. All of these can be stored in an inexpensive plastic storage box.

At Home or Work

A small room without windows in an interior part of the house or office is the best place to seek safety from a tornado. The room should have someplace to store supplies. At home, this could be a bathroom or a closet. A small container holding supplies fits nicely in to a cabinet. At the last minute, throw some pillows in so there is someplace soft to sit or lay a weary head. Office buildings have stairwells and these are the closest and safest places to be during a bad wind storm. It is important that no one pushes anyone else as people descend the stairs. And always be mindful of those who want to go back and get their cell phones accidentally left on a desk.

In a Vehicle on the Road

Cars are most likely to be tossed in to the air and thrown to the ground. The best bet is to pull the car over the side of the road, get out and lay down in a ditch or under an overpass. These are the safest places to be when a twister is either ahead of you or behind you. An overpass will protect you from falling debris. At the very least, a ditch is low enough to the ground where a tornado can't quite pick you up and toss you into the next county.

About Animals

Animals instinctively know when trouble lurks. They are closer to the ground than people and can feel the vibrations. If your pet is acting a little odd, check the weather. Bring all animals - outdoor and indoor ones - to the safe room in the house. Try to keep them as calm as possible. Family pets become family members and leaving them outside in severe weather is cruel. Everyone can be safe if they know what to do before a storm arrives. Make plans and make sure everyone knows what they are.

When you need help with water or fire damage please call SERVPRO of S. San Rafael/Sausalito at (415)479-2900