What is the best way to move around after a tornado and how do you go about it? Most injuries happen after the tornado has passed, when people are attempting to rescue others or clean up debris. Nails, broken glass and collapsing structures are the visible hazards; downed electrical wires, gas leaks and contaminated water are harder to see, but can be deadly.
Below are some general safety rules to consider once you have experienced a tornado.
- Continue to monitor your cell phone, radio or television for emergency information.
- If you are away from home, do not return until authorities say it is safe to do so.
- Be careful when moving through structures that have been damaged.
- Check for leaking gas and water. If you suspect any damage to your home, shut off electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions.
- Use battery-powered lanterns or headlamps rather than gas-powered lamps or candles for light sources when the power is out.
- If there has been significant water damage, do not turn on the power until an electrician has checked the wiring and ensured its safety. It is easy to electrocute yourself when things are damp, even when changing a fuse.
- Do not go near downed power lines or objects in contact with downed lines. If water is in the vicinity of downed lines, the whole area may be electrified. Report electrical hazards immediately to the police and the utility company.
- Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that can fall off shelves.
- Clean up spilled medicines, drugs, flammable liquids and other potentially hazardous materials that could become a fire hazard.
- Do not use tap water unless you are certain it is safe; cracks in pipes can cause inadvertent flooding and risk of contamination.
- Check your heating ducts for blockages; blocked systems can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide. If you have any doubts, have an expert inspect the system before turning it on.
- For insurance purposes, take pictures of any damages.
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