Another round of tornadoes devastates a part of our country. This time it’s Dallas, Texas. The videos of what happened are truly scary. I hope I never have to see a tornado up close and personal. My heart goes out to the people who lost what’s most precious to them – family and friends.
This storm got me to wondering about the rest of the people who were not directly hit by the tornado. How many were really prepared or just lucky the storm didn’t hit them? How many had a place to go to ride out the storm? How many lost power? How many were able to help those in need? Did they know what to do if they were in a car when the storm hit? If you don’t, check out ‘How to Prepare for a Tornado.’ It gives you some advice on what to do before, during, and after a tornado strikes.
Before a Tornado Strikes
Before any storms happen you should make sure you are prepared for the possibility of a power outage, which accompanies a lot of storms, not just tornadoes. Whenever you go to the store buy extra batteries for your flashlights, battery operated lamps, candles, lighters, matches, and oil lamps.
Put all of these items in a place that is easy to get to in case you have to find them in the dark. You can never have too many items that will give you light and heat. If you have a generator, make sure you have the proper fuel stored.
Maybe you’re use to the power going out and coming back on a few hours later. Please understand that the power can be out for a longer time. I remember a storm knocked out my power for almost a week. It was the funniest thing because my side of the block had no power. The houses across the street did. Unfortunately for me, I didn’t know my neighbors well enough to ask for their assistance in keeping my food cold or being able to cook. Fortunately, I was able to go to a relative’s house.
So I suggest planning for an extended power outage, even if it has never happened before. Have a way to keep your food cold, a way to cook your food, and a variety of ways to stay entertained, especially if you have small children. I did at the time and we played board games with a battery operated lantern. It was actually fun.
Have several ways to be able to cook (grill – charcoal, propane; camping stove). If you have a fire place, make sure the wood is stocked up. Have several Styrofoam coolers to keep things colder longer. Always have an alternative way to entertain yourself (cards, board games, books, games, puzzles, etc.)
After a Tornado Strikes
If you lose power during a tornado, the first thing you must do is make sure your family is safe and secure. Next, access the damage. If your home is safe, is your neighbor’s home safe? Do they need any help? If the worst you come up against is a power outage, is it just your house, your block, or does it appears to be on a larger scale? Is your cell phone working?
Depending on what you’ve found out, try calling your electric company to see how long the power will be out. If it will be out for a few hours, just relax and enjoy yourself. If it will be several days, then you will have to execute your emergency plan, which you’ve already created before any emergency happened.
If your freezer is full your food should stay good up to 48 hours. If it’s half full then you may have 24 hours. As one friend of mine said, “A power outage just means a we’re having a barbecue.” I love that. No need to waste any food. Just cook and enjoy.
If the power is out, there will be no TV, no Wii or other game console, and no internet. Do have something to entertain you and your family. Otherwise, life will become unbearable.
Remember, life is precious and it is the most important thing. Whatever happens, make sure you and those you love are safe. Help your neighbors if they need it. And above everything, pray to YHVH Elohim for protection and mercy.
i had a big storm
do and it was so close to my house.I got cut with glass so i put a bit of achole and antibiotc
I’m glad you are okay. It always help to be prepared.
Is a tornado is coming
Not in my area, but there were several throughout the country, that’s why I wrote this article. I wanted people to be aware of the potential problems that come along with tornadoes.