Tornado and Storm Safety in Norman, Oklahoma: Essential Tips to Keep You Safe

9/4/2024 (Permalink)

Living in Norman, Oklahoma, we are no strangers to severe weather. Tornadoes and powerful storms can strike with little warning, making it crucial to be prepared. SERVPRO® is committed to helping our community stay safe during these unpredictable events. Here’s a comprehensive guide to tornado and storm safety that can help protect you and your loved ones.

Understanding Tornadoes and Storms in Norman

Oklahoma is part of "Tornado Alley," a region known for its high frequency of tornadoes. The combination of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and cold, dry air from the Rockies creates the perfect conditions for severe storms. While tornadoes are the most feared, thunderstorms can also bring heavy rain, hail, and damaging winds.

Before the Storm: Preparation is Key

1. Create a Safety Plan:

• Identify a Safe Space: Choose a location in your home where you can take shelter. Ideally, this should be a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows. If you're in a mobile home, plan to move to a sturdy building nearby.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and a weather radio. Include important documents like identification and insurance papers in a waterproof container.
• Communication Plan: Ensure every family member knows how to contact each other if separated. Establish a meeting point after the storm if your home becomes unsafe.

2. Stay Informed:

• Weather Alerts: Sign up for local weather alerts through apps, text messages, or a NOAA Weather Radio. The quicker you receive warnings, the more time you have to act.
• Know the Signs: While modern technology is helpful, it's also important to recognize the natural signs of a tornado, such as dark, greenish skies, large hail, and a loud roar similar to a freight train.

During the Storm: Act Quickly

1. Seek Shelter Immediately:

• Indoors: If you are at home, go to your designated safe space immediately. Avoid windows and cover yourself with a mattress, heavy blankets, or even a helmet to protect from debris.
• Outdoors: If you’re caught outside, try to find the nearest sturdy building. If none is available, lie flat in a low-lying area like a ditch, covering your head with your arms.

2. Stay Tuned:

• Monitor Updates: Continue to listen to weather updates until the storm has passed. Tornadoes can change direction or form quickly, so it’s important to stay alert.

After the Storm: Stay Safe and Secure

1. Check for Injuries:

• First Aid: Administer first aid if needed, and call 911 for serious injuries. Avoid moving anyone who is seriously hurt unless they are in immediate danger.

2. Inspect Your Home:

• Structural Damage: Check your home for structural damage, gas leaks, or electrical issues. If you smell gas, leave immediately and contact the authorities.
• Document Damage: Take photos or videos of any damage for insurance purposes before starting cleanup.

3. Avoid Hazards:

• Downed Power Lines: Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the utility company. Avoid walking through floodwaters, as they may be contaminated or hide dangerous debris.

SERVPRO is Here to Help

We understand the devastation that tornadoes and storms can bring. Our team is ready to respond 24/7 to help with storm damage cleanup and restoration. We have the expertise and equipment to handle any size disaster, from water extraction to structural repairs.

If your home or business has been affected by a tornado or severe storm, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to make it "Like it never even happened."