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Storm Planning for Your Entire Family | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights to help you recover.
As thunder rumbles, lightning flashes across the sky and the tornado sirens blare, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Your dog is restless, your kids are anxious and you’re unsure where to begin. Storm situations can be frightening, especially here in our community in the volatile summer season.
While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we prepare for and respond to it, ensuring everyone remains calm—especially our little ones.
Keep reading as our team shares some simple strategies to incorporate storm preparedness into your family routine, ensuring everyone remains calm, collected and safe when faced with a true emergency.
While we may all know the difference between a sunny day and a cloudy one, recognizing the signs of an approaching storm isn’t always so clear-cut. Even if the forecast doesn’t mention storms, it’s crucial to stay vigilant.
Teach your children to identify the warning signs of an impending storm—such as swirling clouds, dark or green skies, distant thunder and flashes of lightning—and to seek shelter indoors immediately.
Additionally, familiarize them with the sound of a tornado siren and the circumstances under which it might go off. Use scheduled tests of the sirens as an opportunity to acclimate them to the sound in a non-emergency setting. Practice having them listen for the siren and time how quickly they can reach the designated safe shelter area.
Have you and your family created a storm emergency plan? This includes discussing how and when to reach your designated safe shelter area and ensuring your emergency kit is stocked and easily accessible.
Identify the lowest level of your home and locate an interior room, preferably without windows, to serve as your safe shelter area. Keep this space clear and easily accessible at all times. Consider practicing by creating a makeshift fort with heavy objects like tables or desks to reinforce the importance of staying safe during a storm.
Involve your children in assembling your emergency kit. Let them help choose items to include, such as favorite snacks, shelf-stable water, and personal belongings. Have each child select a flashlight and mark it with their name, and don’t forget spare batteries, candles, matches and any necessary medications.
Finally, allow your children to pick out special games or activities reserved for stormy weather situations. These distractions can provide comfort and entertainment if the power goes out or you need to take shelter for an extended period.
Severe weather can be intimidating for anyone, especially children. Assure your kids that while storms can be scary, the likelihood of experiencing severe damage or a direct tornado strike is relatively low. Most storm-related damage typically affects roofs, siding and surrounding property.
Focus on keeping your children calm and occupied during severe weather events. Narrate the situation in a lighthearted manner as it unfolds, and work together to face the challenges 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.