RemainSafe: Tornado Aftermath Resources
In March 2023, RemainSafe attended the Natural Disaster Expo in Miami, Florida, and was able to connect with companies that are dedicated to helping victims of severe weather events. Once your storm shelter has done its job, and you are now dealing with the aftermath of a tornado, what do you do next? Though RemainSafe’s top priority is to keep you safe during severe weather events, we understand the importance of being aware of all stages of storm safety. This blog will give you tips and help set you up to implement an action plan in the aftermath of a tornado and connect you with resources that can assist you. Below are four steps you can take to ensure your safety.
Stay in Touch
Firstly, according to Ready.gov, it is crucial that you always stay informed of the weather situation in the aftermath of a tornado. Since tornados can spawn singularly or in groups, there is a significant chance that the weather could become dangerous again. Be sure to stay notified using your local radio station, Emergency Alert System (EAS), NOAA Weather Radio or local online news outlets if your internet is still functional, for updated information.
Address Medical Concerns
If you are hurt or need medical attention and you cannot safely get to your local hospital, the American Red Cross recommends contacting your medical care provider and sheltering in place until help can arrive. RemainSafe Storm Shelters are built with ease of egress in mind, each door opens inward to ensure your ability to exit, and rescue teams’ ability to enter. In case minor injuries occur, RemainSafe recommends always keeping a first-aid kit in your storm shelter. Pre-stocking your shelter can lessen the stress of severe weather aftermath challenges. To learn how to stock your storm shelter, read our blog How to Stock your Storm Shelter or Safe Space.
Safely Assess Damage
Once you are sure the threat has passed, and you are unhurt, you can assess the damage to your property. When doing this, be sure to wear protective clothing. The American Red Cross recommends thick-soled shoes, long pants and work gloves to reduce injuries. Ready.gov also recommends wearing a mask or face covering to avoid breathing in harmful debris. It is a good idea to keep these items in your storm shelter. Every door RemainSafe manufactures for our storm shelters opens inwards. Even if debris has fallen in front of the door to your storm shelter, you will be able to open it. Additionally, it is crucial for you to stay aware of your surroundings. Downed powerlines, though they may look harmless, can be live and dangerous. Be wary of any cords and cables and whether they are severed.
Destress and Process
When dealing with the aftermath of a destructive storm, it is very common to feel distressed as you recover. The American Red Cross recommends eating healthy food and prioritizing a healthy amount of sleep to help mitigate residual unease and stress. If you find yourself needing to talk to someone, they also offer a free Disaster Distress Helpline available to call or text at 1-800-985-5990.
This blog serves as an educational resource for our customers, for more information visit the resources we referenced in this blog including Ready.gov, American Red Cross and NOAA. RemainSafe offers residential, commercial and community storm shelters. To prepare for unpredictable tornados, visit our product page or contact us for more information.