Staying Safe During Spring/Summer Storms

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

If your property took the wrath of a tornado, call our team at SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville at 319-338-8550.

This past week Wichita was hit by two tornadoes that affected 1,000 structures. We suggest that you make a plan and hold a practice drill to prepare your family.

Finding the Perfect Safe Place

The biggest hurdle when severe weather strikes are finding a spot in your home where you all can wait out the storm. If you are in a home with a basement, try and find a location free from any windows as they could break and send sharp shards everywhere. If you are in a home without a basement, we suggest staying on the first floor while seeking shelter in the bathroom. For protection, we recommend lying in the bathtub as your cover yourself with a mattress. Suppose you’re like our Digital Marketing Support Coordinator Jacob, who lives in an older apartment. In that case, we suggest that you create a plan before the storm, asking your first-floor tenants if you can wait in their apartment until the weather passes. 

Prepping for the Worst Case Scenario 

Like some of the properties in Witcha, when a tornado hits, it can level properties which is why stocking your area will better prepare you for those worst-case scenarios. When you find the perfect shelter, we suggest you stock up on water, nonperishables, and structures such as a desk or table to lay under. If the structures start to shake and you hear what sounds like a train whistle, we suggest you cover your neck to help protect yourself from falling debris. 

Please Remain in Shelter Until Storm Passes

With the tornadoes, it doesn’t matter how long they are on the ground; you NEED TO STAY OUT OF IT’S WAY! Tornadoes create strong winds that can rip homes from their structure or send semis flying. When a tornado is on the ground is NO TIME to pull out your phone to become amateur storm chasers. Stay inside to protect yourself from dangerous wind gusts or fast-flying debris.