The United States Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, better known as NOAA, estimates that the United States is home to roughly 1,000 real-deal, true-blue tornadoes in an average year. Although most tornadoes strike the Midwestern portion of the country, an area known fittingly as Tornado Alley, they can happen anywhere at any time. Having a steel safe room in Arkansas is always a good idea. However, that alone won’t keep you safe. Here are a few tips for staying safe during tornadoes.
You Need to Be Able to Listen to the Outside World
You’ll almost certainly be preoccupied with the prospects of surviving a serious, ravaging tornado when you’re cramped inside a steel safe room in Arkansas by yourself or with your family members. As such, don’t worry about bringing anything to keep you entertained. However, you should carry along a small television, radio, or a mobile device coupled with an active internet connection as well as a source of power for each or all of them – depending on which ones you tote along with you in preparation for the tornado – so you can find out when it’s safe to exit the tornado shelter.
Make Sure to Bring Food and Water Along With You
Most tornadoes only last a few minutes. However, you might find yourself in a severe storm cell that unleashes several tornadoes. The cell could carry on for several hours, if not close to a full day. Rather than exiting the shelter for food or water, make certain that there’s plenty of food andwater stashed in the shelter ahead of time.
What If You Can’t Make It to the Shelter?
Pre-designate the safest area in your home in case push comes to shove. Triangular-shaped rooms are often the sturdiest. Closets are good choices, too, though basements are almost always the best option.