Tornado safety tips and resources for individuals

Tornadoes may cause downed power lines, relocated debris and structural issues to homes and buildings. We are here to help you get back to business should you need to file a claim.

Here are some tips to help you prepare and keep your family and property safe. Please follow local emergency personnel evacuation plans and routes to take.
 

Prepare today

1. Create a family communications plan – Develop a family contact sheet with names, addresses and phone numbers of important contacts including doctors, schools and out-of-state family members. Keep an online backup available.
2. Make a home inventory – Insurance claims are typically processed faster when an inventory is available.
3. Stay alert - Sign up for weather alerts.
4. Never shelter in a mobile home - Head to a nearby shelter.
5. Fix it up - Repair loose boards, shingles, shutters and downspouts.
6. Pet owners – Research pet friendly hotels and shelters.
    

If a storm is coming

1. Select a shelter and make a plan.
2. Stock up –
   • Battery-operated radio
   • Flashlights
   • Batteries
   • Medications
   • First aid kit
   • Non-perishable food and water
3. Keep your eye on the sky – Watch for heavy, dark clouds with thunder and lightning.
4. Listen to weather updates – Have a battery-operated radio handy in the event of a power outage.
5. Move items inside – Outdoor items such as bikes and furniture may blow around during the storm and cause damage.
6. Park your car in the garage.

During the storm

1. Seek shelter immediately – Stay away from doors, windows and outside rooms and head to a designated and stocked area, such as a basement, storm cellar or windowless interior room.
2. Never shelter in a mobile home – Head to a nearby shelter.
3. Stay away from trees, power lines and utility poles.
4. Keep low – If you are in a high rise, head to the lowest floor possible.

After the storm

1. Check for family or neighbors who may have been injured or trapped. Do not move injured people; call 911.
2. Reconnect with a designated family member who is unlikely to have been affected by the tornado. Download the Red Cross Emergency app and use the "I'm safe" feature to connect with loved ones.
3. Inspect gas, electrical and water lines carefully for damage. Look for structural damage such as foundation cracks. If unfamiliar with what to look for, call a professional or emergency services. Call 211 for shelter locations and disaster information.
4. Document any property damage with photos and videos and save receipts for immediate repairs made to prevent further damage.
5. Avoid touching power lines and assume all downed power lines are live.
6. Wait to dispose of any items until you have met with your insurance adjuster.
7. If you are not in your home, check with local authorities to see if your home is safe to enter.

Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if there is damage and protect the property while mitigating any future risk.

Weather resource center