Preparing for a Tornado

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

As Missouri is starting to approach Tornado season, we need to make sure we’re prepared in case one is in our area.  First, you need to know the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning.  A watch means a tornado is possible in your area.  A warning means there is already one occurring in your area and you need to take shelter immediately.  According to the American Red Cross, these are a few things that can help prepare and protect your family during a tornado.

1. Talk about tornadoes with your family so that everyone knows where to go if a tornado warning is issued. Discussing ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.
2. Check at your workplace and your children’s schools and daycare centers to learn about their tornado emergency plans. Every building has different safe places.
3. Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well Wallet Card.
4. Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts, either through streaming an online NOAA radio station, downloading a NOAA radio app in Apple Store or Google Play, or purchasing a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA radio in the Red Cross Store.
5. Check your Emergency Kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply, especially medications or other medical supplies. Keep it nearby.

Once the storm has cleared and it is safe for your family to come out of shelter, you’ll want to assess any damage that has occurred to your home.  If you find you have water damage, contact SERVPRO of South Chesterfield/Wildwood and we’ll be able to take care of the problem for you.