Being Prepared for Tornados

We're under storm warnings (again) today. It's part of our Spring weather where I live, smack in the middle of "Tornado Alley".

I have learned from experience that it is prudent to gather belongings and papers you want "saved" in case of storm damage, and it is better to do it earlier than later.

In one large rectangular folding carton, I put the following:

• Ziploc bags of all medication for each family member;
• Purses and wallets;
• Notebook I keep financial records and bills in plus the notebook with receipts needed for taxes, etc.;
• 2 picture albums that I can't live without (or don't think I could);
• Notebook with vital information such as living wills, lockbox keys, etc.
• Notebooks and computer disks dealing with my business;
• Box containing new, unused checks.

In a small plastic bin goes the following:

• Flashlights
• Portable radio and batteries
• Bottled water
• Snacks
• First-aid kit

The latter I keep maintained and ready to go - just a matter of taking it off the shelf where it is stored.

This process only takes 5 minutes because I have done it so many times before, but it sure makes getting to the shelter a whole lot quicker.

The one last rule that is never deviated from is that I am the last one out of the house. We exit by one door so that I know everyone is out. No one is allowed to go back no matter what until the storm has well passed.

A little preparation in the beginning of the "alert" can not only save lives, but incalculable headaches later on should you have a calamity.

By Ronsan