Hurricane Katrina
1. In-house storm shelters
In-house storm shelters are an affordable alternative to a free standing or an underground storm shelter, and some states within the notorious Tornado Alley offer grants to help cover a part of the expense of adding these rooms to your home. One way you can do this is to add a storm shelter to your property. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding and tornadoes or to hurricanes then this is a great option. While the outside brick walls may give way in the strong winds, the 12-inch concrete walls the shelters are made of will hold their ground to protect those inside.
2. Know your evacuation zone
Forecasters have no idea how severe this year’s tornado season may be. Before hurricane season begins, homeowners should learn which evacuation zone they are in and under what circumstances should they consider evacuation. When you know a hurricane is approaching, go outside and look around with a watchful eye.
3. Tornadoes pose another threat
Having a secure room may be the difference between surviving and being another unfortunate statistic. Tornadoes that come with 300 mph hour force winds can ravage entire cityscape in a point of minutes. If you have a storm shelter installed then you can avoid disaster and save lives.
4. Living off the grid
This is an important suggestion for knowing how to prepare for a hurricane. Power is paramount. Although you may never have to use it, when you do use your storm shelter it should be as inviting and comfortable as possible. Often knocking out the power grid for some time, a battery operated charger and phone is needed to keep lines of contact open for loved ones. Shelters can be wired for electricity and can also be handicap accessible which is a wonderful feature. Of course, a separate power generator is another option.
5. Consider an air conditioner
Even if you have central air conditioning, having an inexpensive air conditioner unit installed in your shelter would be a wise move. If the unfortunate incident of a storm occurs, the additional comfort will make the stormy situation feel less traumatic.
6. Pillows and sofas
Add pillows to benches and sofas for even more comfort. This way you’re prepared for the typically worst part of the storm season when it arrives, giving you peace of mind and security — instead of fear, worry and uncertainty.
7. Collaborate with your community
Invite a few of your neighbors over or attend a neighborhood association meeting to discuss sharing the cost of a storm cellar to which each of you would have access. This is an economical option that could suit your particular situation.
8. Be wary of your automobile
If you know a storm is coming ahead of time, park the car as quickly and safely as possible — out of the traffic lanes. Once home, stay off the streets and do not be tempted to walk or drive around the neighborhood to see storm damage.
9. Metal and lightning
Remember that metal attracts lightning so stay away from metal objects. Though anyone could be hoping and praying that a tornado never strikes their place, be wary of your surroundings to prepare for the most terrible situation. Minimize the risks to your body.
10. Build external shelters nearby
Some people may opt to have a shelter build outside of their house. If this is the choice for your family, make sure that the storm shelter is close by. It must be in accessible and quick to use for your loved ones in case of an immediate emergency.
By following a few of these tips, hopefully you will have a better understanding for how to prepare for a hurricane or tornado. Remember it is better to be safe than sorry in any kind of situation. Keep yourself and your family safe. Take the proper precautions and have your storm shelter ready before the storm season hits!
[Image source: Wikipedia Commons]
