Today’s blog brings you tornado safety from Box Insurance Agency insurance companies in Grapevine. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported almost 1,200 tornadoes in the U.S. in 2015. Tornadoes can occur in any area when the conditions are right, and it’s essential to take steps to prepare for tornados. For questions about your homeowner’s policy, contact our insurance companies in Grapevine today.
Prepare for Tornados
In the southern states, March through May is the peak of tornado season. However, they can occur at any time. Reinforcing a home for tornados is a time consuming project, and the time to start is now. The American Red Cross recommends hiring a professional for reinforcing masonry walls, securing a chimney, and providing a permanent foundation to mobile homes. Furthermore, once the project is complete, notify your agent. You may require an adjustment to your homeowner’s policy for the increased value of the home. Contact our insurance companies in Grapevine for additional information.
It’s also recommended to secure lawn furniture and other potential projectiles when threatening weather is forecast. Loose objects can potentially become a life threatening danger for your family and neighbors.
Tornado Drill
Provide tornado drills and instruct family members where to go during a tornado. Underground in a basement is the safest place to be if available. Avoid windows and seek shelter under a sturdy object such as a heavy table or bench in the basement. NOAA recommends having a mattress or sleeping bags available to blunt the force of flying debris that may occur if basement windows are broken. In addition, if children have sports helmets available, they should wear them.
If a basement isn’t available, or if you live in a high-rise and can’t get to it in time, go to the lowest floor, or a small center room, such as a bathroom or closet. Other options include under stairwells or an interior hallway. The tornado drill should also provide instruction of which rooms are the safest in the event of a tornado.
Staying Safe on the Road
When caught on the road during a tornado, pull over and go inside a sturdy building to seek shelter, if possible. When shelter isn’t available, stay in the car with the seat belt on, and your head below the windows. Cover your head with hands and a blanket if available, even a jacket can assist in providing some protection.
In addition, avoid sheltering under a bridge or overpass which won’t provide protection from flying debris. In fact, the design of the overpass may increase the wind speed underneath it. If a ditch is available, and debris isn’t already threatening, the ditch can be safer than an overpass or bridge. When threatening weather is possible, staying home is the best option if possible.
Storm Shelters and Safe Room
Tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards, and even home invasion are extreme situations in which families may benefit from a safe room.
A safe room is a secure, reinforced room where family members can go to avoid risks and potential dangers, including tornadoes. A professional contractor can construct a safe room in an existing room, or as an addition. In addition, free DIY plans are available online at fema.gov/safe-rooms.
We hope you found the tips for tornado safety useful. Box insurance agents offer the expertise to provide for your insurance needs. Contact an agent with our insurance companies in Grapevine for free quotes or questions. We have served Grapevine, Dallas, Fort Worth, and the surrounding areas for almost a century, providing Box Insurance Agency with the distinction of being one of the area’s oldest insurance companies in Grapevine, and through the years, we have provided our customers with affordable insurance solutions, and customer satisfaction.