Oklahoma is no stranger to tornadoes; in fact, it ranks third in the number of tornadoes per state, with an average of 62 tornadoes occurring annually. This makes preparing for tornado season especially important, especially when it comes to protecting Oklahoma homeownership.
By preparing ahead of the tornado season, homeowners can minimize the potential risk of destruction that tornadoes can bring. Homeownership in Oklahoma comes with many responsibilities, and ensuring that your family and your home are safe from a potential tornado should be a priority.
In general, defenses against a tornado include sturdy construction and a well-stocked emergency kit to keep you out of harm’s way. However, it’s important to consider more specific steps to protect your home and your family in the event of a tornado.
Planning Ahead for Oklahoma Homeownership
No matter the season, it’s important to prepare for any possible emergency. In Oklahoma, tornado season is no exception. Make sure to have contact information and emergency plans in place in case a tornado strikes. As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to be aware of the most current safety measures to protect your family and your home.
Put together an emergency kit that includes items such as flashlights, first aid items, bottled water, and non-perishable food. Have an evacuation plan in place for your family. Develop different plans for different types of potential danger and practice them as a family.
Inspecting Your Home For Safety
It’s also important to check the physical condition of your home in preparation for tornado season. Make sure that no trees or branches are touching your home, and that your gutters and drains are clear from debris. Inspect the walls, windows, and doors to make sure they are in good condition. Check the roof of your home and make sure it is not in danger of collapsing under the weight of strong winds.
In the event of a tornado, make sure to stay away from windows and exterior walls. Create a safe room within your home to protect your family and take shelter there. Make sure your emergency kit, including any important papers, are stored in this room.
Afterwards, be sure to inspect your home for any damages and document it for insurance claims. Make repairs as soon as possible to prevent any further damage from occurring to your home.
Insurance Coverage in Oklahoma
Lastly, make sure to review the insurance coverage you have on your home to make sure it is adequate, especially during the season. Specifically check your policy for damage caused by wind, hail, and any other potential damages from storms that are covered. If a tornado does occur, contact your insurer right away and file a claim.
Preparing for a Tornado
- Sturdy Construction
- Well-Stocked Emergency Kit
- Contact Information & Emergency Plans
- Check the Physical Condition of Your Home
- Create a Safe Room
- Inspect for Damage & Document for Insurance Claim
- Review Your Insurance Coverages
Conclusion
By taking the necessary steps to prepare for tornado season, Oklahoma homeowners can ensure that their families and homes are best protected from potential destruction. Reviewing any insurance policies and having a well-stocked emergency kit are important steps that every homeowner should take when it comes to preparing for tornado season.