As we enter Spring, tornado season is officially upon us. When disaster strikes, many people and communities can be left with nothing. While we can’t always control the damage of a natural disaster, such as a tornado, we can prepare with all of the essential items we need beforehand. Being prepared before a tornado occurs can help alleviate some of the inevitable stress that comes with great loss. Having disaster relief materials on hand will allow you to be equipped and ready to act as quickly as possible.
When your community receives a tornado watch notification, it means that a tornado is either headed in your direction or already in its beginning stages. This is the time to take cover and grab your emergency assistance supplies. Make sure everyone in your household is aware of where the emergency supplies are being stored to help limit the panic. Being prepared is your strongest weapon in this situation.
Identify a safe place for cover.
Tornadoes are extremely violent and can destroy any type of structure. With the aggressive force of a tornado, it’s vital to avoid windows and areas in which items can fly and hit you. If you’re in a public place, it would be best to locate the closest public shelter area. Safe shelters are often basements because they have no windows and are located at the foundation of the house. When taking shelter, make sure that you gather everyone in your house with you, including adults, children, and pets. Because your pets don’t know what’s going on, it’s vital to make sure to carry them with you. Having pet supplies in your emergency shelter supplies will also be extremely helpful should anything happen.
Create an emergency relief kit.
Having the right materials when disaster strikes can save not just your life, but those around you as well. Disaster relief supplies are often overlooked because natural disasters do not occur on a daily basis. Making sure you have these materials can make a huge difference.
Here are some of the top things to put in your emergency relief kit:
1. First Aid Kit: Bandaids, petroleum jelly, a thermometer, sterile pads, cleaning towelettes, Tylenol or Ibuprofen
2. Emergency blanket
3. Emergency purified drinking water
4. Flashlight
5. Hand/toe warmers & ice packs
6. Rain poncho
7. Bedding & Bath: Blankets, pillows, towels, sleeping bags
If you lose power or don’t have access to a microwave, oven, refrigerator, or equivalent, don’t forget about food and snacks! Here are some things to keep in your disaster relief food pantry:
1. Tuna or chicken in a can
2. Cereal or pop tarts
3. Granola bars or pretzels
4. Nuts or trail mix
5. Cookies or chips
6. Clean drinking water or bottled water & drinks
For clean up efforts, be sure to stock:
1. Garbage bags
2. Dustpan
3 Broom
4. Paper towels
5. Sponges
6. Gloves
7. Disinfectant wipes
8. Dish soap
9. Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer
10. Extra clothes & socks
11. Hygiene kits
12. Flip flops, rain boots, or sneakers
13. Jackets or coats
Lastly, here are some non-essential, great items to have on hand:
1. Coloring books & writing instruments
2. Sudoku, word search, & crossword puzzle books
3. Books
Tornado season is upon us and we want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible. Your safety is extremely important, and you should have the materials you need to keep yourself, your family, your friends, and your community safe. DollarDays is here to help you every step of the way. If you have a specific type of natural disaster that hits your area, reach out and let us help you secure the items you’ll need most. Did disaster already strike? We’re here to help you recover quickly. Thank you for trusting us and letting us assist you in this time of need.
Written by: Rachel Pollack