Tornado Disaster Tips

That tornadoes strike every month of the year and in almost every state.  

Peak tornado season:  April to August.

States by the most tornadoes in 1993:  Texas (117); Kansas (113); Florida (85); South Dakota (85); Colorado (71); and Nebraska (70).  Total number of U.S. tornadoes in 1993:  1,173.

Make a written or videotaped inventory of household possessions/property and store in a safe place with insurance policies, documents and other valuables.

Identify a safe location in your home--a basement, center hallway, bathroom or closet on the lowest floor.

Take a first aid class from your local Red Cross Chapter.

Assemble a disaster kit including:  first aid kit, medications, battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, canned food, can opener, bottled water, sturdy shoes and work gloves.

Make a utilities checklist with instructions on how to turn them off.

Conduct periodic tornado drills.

Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information and for instructions if a disaster occurs.

Check your homeowners insurance policy to make sure you're covered for damage due to tornadoes.

Call your independent insurance agent as soon as possible.

Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Delay permanent repairs until you speak to your adjuster.

Get any necessary construction permits from your community.

Keep all receipts.

Prepare an inventory of all damaged or destroyed personal property.

Take photos of damaged areas.

Save remnants of damaged or destroyed property for your insurance company adjuster.

Meet with your adjuster first, before signing anything with contractors.