What to Do After a Tornado Roars Through Your Community

Posted: March 27, 2023 11:10 am

The rash of tornadoes over the weekend that left dozens dead across the South has served as a reminder about the importance of having a plan of action after a natural disaster strikes. Do you know what to do in the immediate aftermath of a tornado touchdown? Read on to learn what the experts recommend.

Half of Injuries Occur in Aftermath of Tornado

It is important to note that some of the worst dangers associated with a tornado happen after the storm moves on. This makes it vital that survivors act out of caution in the minutes and hours immediately following the event.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about half of all injuries related to a tornadic outbreak happen after the twister touches down. Some of the most common causes for these injuries include being struck by falling objects or stepping on nails and other pieces of sharp debris.

It is not unusual for local emergency services to be stretched to the max following a tornado. First responders may not be able to address minor injuries in the aftermath of the storm. This makes it important that you are ready to care for your family.

Asses the Injury Situation

The first thing to do once the tornado passes is to check for injuries. If a family member is injured, do not try to move them unless they are trapped in a dangerous situation. Apply pressure to any bleeding wounds until emergency services arrive on the scene.

Experts also recommend that you cover your mouth with a cloth or other protective covering if you are trapped inside a building after a tornado hits. This will help to avoid inhaling potentially harmful dust.

Stay Abreast About Developing Weather Conditions

Tornadoes tend to occur in groups. Just because you made it through one tornado touchdown unscathed, it does not mean that the danger has passed. It is crucial that you stay abreast of developing weather conditions in the aftermath of a tornado. Enabling your smartphone to receive notifications, listening to a battery-powered radio, or turning into your local news station are ways that you can keep on top of what may be headed your way.

Inspect for Damage and Other Hazards

If you happen to be away from your home when the tornado strikes, do not return until local officials inform you that it is safe to do so. Keep in mind that the winds that roar in with a tornado can significantly weaken the structure of your home. This means that you need to properly address any potential hazards to the structural integrity of your home.

Other hazards to look for include electrical issues or gas leaks. It is recommended to turn off all electrical power and natural gas outlets if you notice any structural damage to your home. Leave the area immediately if you smell gas or you suspect that there may be a leak.

If possible, wear boots and long sleeves when inspecting your property. This will help to protect you against secondary injuries. Be sure to stay on the lookout for broken glass or nails.

When the house has been deemed structurally safe and sound, you will want to take photographs or video to document any damage. This will prove necessary if you need to deal with insurance companies.

Do not touch any fallen power lines. Report these hazards immediately to both law enforcement and the local utility company.

Lastly, it is also important to stay away from any impacted areas unless local authorities have requested the assistance of volunteers in the cleanup efforts. Inserting yourself into a situation that has not been cleared can present more problems for rescuers looking to secure an area. Despite your best intentions, you do not want to inadvertently hamper the search, rescue, and cleanup efforts.

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