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Storm Planning to Keep Your Family Calm | SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda to help you recover.
As thunder echoes, lightning streaks across the sky and the wail of tornado sirens fills the air, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your furry friend paces anxiously, your little ones are on edge and you’re unsure where to start. Storm situations can be daunting, especially when storms can get really intense in a short period of time.
While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we prepare for it and react to it, ensuring everyone stays calm—especially our kiddos.
Keep reading as our team shares some simple tips to incorporate storm readiness into your family’s routine, so everyone stays calm, cool and collected when faced with a real emergency.
Though we can all spot a sunny day vs. a cloudy one, knowing the signs of an approaching storm isn’t always as obvious. Even if the forecast doesn’t mention storms, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. Teach your kids to spot the signs of an impending storm—like swirling clouds, ominous skies, distant thunder and lightning flashes—and to head indoors immediately.
Also, familiarize them with the sound of a tornado siren and when it might go off. Use scheduled siren tests as an opportunity to get them used to the sound in a non-emergency setting. Practice having them listen for the siren and time how quickly they can get to your designated safe spot.
Have you and your family created a storm emergency plan? This involves discussing how and when to get to your safe spot and ensuring your emergency kit is packed and ready to go.
Identify the lowest level of your home and find an inner room, ideally one without windows, to serve as your safe spot. Keep this area clear and easily accessible at all times. Consider practicing by building a fort with heavy objects like tables or desks to reinforce the importance of staying safe during a storm.
Involve your kids in putting together your emergency kit. Let them help choose items to include, such as their favorite snacks, shelf-stable water and personal belongings. Have each child pick out a flashlight and mark it with their name, and don’t forget spare batteries, candles, matches and any necessary medications.
Finally, let your kids pick out special games or activities to keep them occupied during severe weather. These distractions can provide comfort and entertainment if the power goes out or you need to hunker down for a while.
Severe weather can be scary for everyone, especially youngsters. Reassure your kids that while storms can be intense, the likelihood of experiencing severe damage or a direct tornado hit is pretty low. Most storm-related damage usually focuses on roofs, siding and property.
Focus on keeping your children calm and engaged during severe weather. Narrate the situation in a light-hearted way as it unfolds, and tackle the challenges together with confidence. With preparation and a positive attitude, you and your family can weather any storm that comes your way.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.