Preparing for a disaster at home is key to staying safe in the event of an emergency. However, every home is different, and the likelihood of you being away from home when a disaster occurs means you should prepare for as many possible situations as you can. For tornado safety, the guidelines can vary depending on where you are at the time of a storm. Here are some safety tips to help you in any situation:
If You're in a House
The safest place to be in a house is on the lowest floor and away from windows. Choose a room on the interior of the home's layout so that you have as many walls between you and the outside as possible. If your house has a basement, sheltering there is your best option, though small windowless bathrooms and closets can also work well.
If You're in an Apartment
If you live in an apartment, it can be a bit trickier to follow the general guidelines regarding basements and windows. Apartments on upper floors are at greater risk than those below, so if you can find a place to shelter on the ground floor, either with a neighbor or in a common area, you should consider it. If these options aren't available to you, choose an interior room like a bathroom.
If You're in an Office or Mall
If you're in a multi-story commercial or office building during a storm, it's not always easy to get to the ground floor in a hurry. However, finding an interior room without windows is still a good option for safety. Supply closets, conference rooms and bathrooms are worth considering, but beware falling objects from shelves or cabinets. Otherwise, a stairwell is a structurally sound place to be during a tornado, ideally as close to the ground as possible.
If You're in a Car
If you're driving when a tornado touches down, don't try to drive away from it. Instead, park and find shelter inside a building as quickly as possible. Avoid driving underneath bridges or overpasses, as they can be extremely dangerous in strong winds.
It might seem like a lot to remember, but the more of these tips you know, the safer you'll be in any disaster.
About the Author
Wendy Wiegand
As a premier real estate agent in Carlsbad, I’m here to provide you with all the resources and information you need to buy or sell real estate. I work with buyers and sellers in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside, San Marcos, Vista and the surrounding areas and I’ve had extensive training in the latest real estate marketing strategies. I’m confident that I can offer you knowledge and tools most other agents can’t.
I believe in service, both to my clients and our community. When working with clients, you can be assured I am focused on providing the most comprehensive and dedicated effort so that you can achieve the best results possible when buying or selling real estate. I am also deeply involved in serving our community, as you and I all call it home. I have been a member of Rotary since 2003, have been an active member of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce since 2006, and serve on the board of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation. Perhaps my even deeper service to my clients and our community is Wiegand Realty’s participation in Business for a Cause.
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