Preparing Yourself and Your Home For the Upcoming Storm and Tornado Season in Oklahoma
Preparing Yourself and Your Home For the Upcoming Storm and Tornado Season in Oklahoma
If you live in Oklahoma, you are aware of how common tornadoes are. In fact, tornadoes are so common in Oklahoma it could be argued that tornado season is all year round. In 2020, Oklahoma saw a total of 149 tornadoes. Between the months of late March to August, Oklahoma City is one of the cities with the highest rates for tornadoes in the state.
As storm season begins, now is the time to prepare for the severe weather, but how do you effectively prepare for this year’s upcoming storm and tornado season?
Preparing for Storm and Tornado Season
We have compiled a list of tips on how to keep yourself, your family and your homes safe:
Create an emergency kit of essential items, such as flashlight, first-aid kit, portable phone charger, and a backup of any prescription medications your household may need.
Reinforce your home. Ensure that entry doors have a two-inch deadbolt lock and three hinges, with screws long enough to secure the door and frame to the wall framing. Install wood or metal vertical bracing on garage doors for added support, and impact-resistant windows to keep your home safe from debris.
Designate a safe room e.g. a cellar or basement. It should be below ground, or a reinforced steel above-ground shelter.
Store essentials in your safe room. You should keep a 2 day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water in your safe room just in case you get caught by debris and have to wait to be rescued.
Know the nearest storm shelter to your home, so you can get there quickly in case you need to evacuate.
