Tornado Damage Preparation
There are areas of the country that are more prone to tornadoes than others. If you live in one of these areas, you should make sure that you are prepared for the insurance process in the result of a tornado.
Tornado Damage Preparation Includes:
- Documentation – Locate or take digital photographs of your property before the storm to best show comparison.
- Written Home Inventory: Create a written inventory of all belongings- including purchase date and price.
- Video Home Inventory: Videotape or photograph all of the room of your home and your belongings.
- Appraisal: Get a professional appraisal of antiques, jewelry and other items of value. Make sure to include close up photos of these items with your home inventory.
- Inventory Storage: Keep a copy of your home inventory and appraisals in a safe location such as a bank safety deposit box.
- Preparation – Secure and protect your property. Be sure that your property is properly insured, and develop an emergency plan with your family.
To properly protect yourself, your family and your property: be prepared. Understand the following terminology to best identify a tornado hazard.
- Tornado Watch – tornadoes are possible. Watch the sky and stay tuned to your weather radio station or television for updates. During this period it can be helpful to also watch the sky. Look for the following danger signs:
- Dark, often greenish sky
- Large hail
- A large, dark, low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating)
- Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
- Tornado Warning – a tornado has been indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately!
Before a tornado hits, the wind may die down and the air may become very still. A cloud of debris can mark the location of a tornado even if a funnel is not visible. Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It is not uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado. Do not let this calmness mislead you, stay sheltered!
Proper tornado damage preparation before the disaster hits will save property and lives!
Tornado Damage Preparation Resources:
Adjusting Today
FEMA Before a Tornado
