The short answer
Secure Your Property's Exterior
Walk around your yard and identify anything that could become airborne. This includes patio furniture, grills, garden tools, and trash cans. Secure these items in a garage or shed, or anchor them with straps. Trim tree branches that hang near your roof or windows to reduce the risk of damage from high winds.
Check the condition of your roof, siding, and gutters. Loose shingles or damaged siding panels can be torn off easily. Make sure your gutters are clear of debris to handle heavy rain. Reinforce garage doors, as they are a common failure point. Installing a brace kit can help a door withstand wind pressure.
Identify and Fortify Your Safe Room
Your safe room should be an interior space on the lowest floor, away from windows. A basement, storm cellar, or small interior bathroom or closet offers the best protection. Ensure this space is easily accessible to all family members, including pets, and that the path to it is clear of clutter.
Stock this room with essential supplies. A basic kit includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, and a first-aid kit. Keep important documents in a waterproof container there as well. Consider adding sturdy shoes and helmets for added safety during debris impact.
- Choose an interior room on the lowest floor.
- Ensure it has no windows or exterior walls.
- Keep an emergency kit with water and food.
- Include a battery-powered weather radio.
- Store important documents in waterproof bags.
- Practice getting to the room quickly.
Create a Family Communication Plan
Decide how your household will contact each other if separated during a storm. Designate an out-of-town contact person, as local phone lines may be overloaded. Make sure every family member has that phone number memorized or written down. Teach children how to send a text message, as texts often go through when calls cannot.
Review and practice your plan several times a year. Discuss where to meet if you cannot return home. Include plans for pets and any family members with special medical needs. Keep a written copy of this plan in your emergency kit and in a common area like on the refrigerator.
Prepare for Potential Water Damage
Tornadoes often bring torrential rain that can lead to flooding and leaks. Know the location of your main water shutoff valve and how to turn it off. This can prevent extensive water damage if pipes are broken. If you have a sump pump, test it before the season starts to ensure it is working.
Inspect areas where water commonly enters, like basement window wells and door thresholds. Clear any debris from exterior drains to allow water to flow away from your foundation. Consider installing gutter extensions to direct rainwater further from your home, reducing the risk of basement flooding.
- Locate and label your main water shutoff valve.
- Test your sump pump before storm season.
- Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Inspect basement windows for proper seals.
- Use downspout extensions to divert water.
- Move valuable items off basement floors.
What to Do After a Tornado
Once authorities say it is safe, carefully exit your shelter. Wear sturdy shoes and protective gloves to avoid injury from broken glass or nails. Check for immediate hazards like downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage to your home. Do not enter visibly damaged buildings until they have been declared safe by a professional.
If you find water damage, act quickly to mitigate it. Remove standing water if it is safe to do so and move wet items to a dry area. Ventilate the space by opening windows if weather permits. Contact local water damage pros for a thorough inspection and drying to prevent mold growth.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Oklahoma City and nearby communities.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
How can I protect my windows without storm shutters?
You can use pre-cut plywood panels to cover windows. Anchor them securely from the outside with screws. Inside, applying a safety film to the glass can help hold shattered pieces together, reducing the risk of injury from flying debris.
Should I turn off utilities before a tornado?
If you have time, turning off natural gas at the meter and water at the main valve can prevent fires and flooding from broken lines. Only do this if you know how and it is safe. Do not turn off electricity unless flooding is imminent.
What if my home gets water damage from the storm?
Local water damage pros can perform moisture mapping and structural drying to save your home. They use specialized equipment to extract water and thoroughly dry affected areas. This helps prevent secondary damage like warped floors and mold growth.