Preparing for a Storm
by | April 07, 2022 | Uncategorized
As we’re sure all of you know, the weather in Oklahoma can change faster than the drop of a hat.
We’ve had all four seasons in one day on more than one occasion, and our family at Burgraff Roofing has made it our goal to keep you and your family (including our four legged loved ones) safe during the storms and we’ll be there to assist you in recovering when the storm passes through.
Your roof plays a vital role in this ongoing war with the elements. But there are other things that can protect you too. Having a plan before severe storms and tornadoes hit is one of the best ways to stay safe.
We have a few tips to help you and your family when severe weather arrives.
First things first, it is important to be prepared. We think the best way to prepare for severe weather is to have a plan before things get scary. Everyone living in your home should know this plan. If you have children, they should know what to do even if no adults are present.
Next, pack a storm kit. This is a useful tool to have when the inclement weather comes. Every person should have one. These kits don’t only help your family during the storm, they can be extremely useful after the storm if necessary. Here are the things we recommend having in your storm kit: food, water, first-aid kit, map, cell phone charger, flashlight, radio, batteries, multi-tool, duct tape, rope, protective clothing, moist towelettes or baby wipes, whistle, important phone numbers, medication, copies of medical/insurance info, and money.
If bad weather hits, don’t wait until it is too late to take shelter. There are many potential options to keep your family safe from a storm in your home.
Here are a few of the best places to ride out the storm.
Underground Storm Shelter
This is the best place to be during a severe storm or a tornado. Being entirely underground is the safest bet, and if you are fortunate enough to have one, you should definitely use it. You could even store your safety kits here for a quicker trip to the shelter, and make sure it is completely fastened as soon as everyone is inside.
Basement
Basements are also good for seeking shelter, they are mainly if not completely underground which offers protection from the storm. Although, in the case that your basement is not completely underground, stay away from doors or windows. Also, there is the possibility that objects from your home can fall from above, so avoid waiting directly underneath areas with large objects.
Outdoor Storm Shelter
In this case, our advice to not wait to take shelter is important to follow. Having a storm shelter outdoors creates different risks, flying debris and high winds while moving from your home to the shelter. Again, having a plan is a vital role here because getting out there before the storm hits means protecting your family from potential flying debris.
Alternative Storm Shelter
Don’t worry if you do not have a storm shelter or a basement, there are plenty of options in your home that can shelter you from a storm. First things first, stay away from any windows or outside doors if possible. Also avoid choosing large rooms to take shelter in, the smaller the room, the better. Other options are: closets, bathrooms, hallways, and underneath stairs.
Stay Low
Once you’re in your shelter, it is important to stay low. The lower you are, the safer you are and of course even better if you can get underground. If getting underground is not an option, be sure to lay as close to the ground as you can.
Cover Up
The majority of injuries and deaths from tornadoes and severe storms is flying debris. This is why covering up and adding extra barriers between you and the storm is so important. Even though you feel safe inside your home, flying glass or other large or small objects can easily penetrate your house during these storms. When possible, it is wise to use large furniture to shield yourself or underneath stairwells. Other items to create that extra barrier are: sleeping bags, blankets, mattresses, pillows, coats and helmets.
Storm season in Oklahoma is scary, and can put your family at risk in a second’s notice.
Here at Burgraff Roofing, we hope that our advice to you has been helpful and better prepares you and your family for the upcoming storms. And if your home happens to be hit by the storms this season, and we hope it doesn’t, we will be there to help you when you call. If you do have any questions about storm damage, re-roofing, roof repair or a free estimate or inspections, give us a call! We’re here to help you!