🌪️ Tornado Recovery

Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid and call 911 for serious injuries. Stay alert — more tornadoes may follow in the same storm system. Continue listening to weather radio. Don't move seriously injured people unless they're in immediate danger.

Stay away from downed power lines — they can be live and deadly even in water or debris. If you smell gas (rotten egg odor), leave immediately and call the gas company. Watch for broken glass, exposed nails, and sharp metal. Wear sturdy shoes and work gloves.

Approach damaged buildings with extreme caution. Look for leaning walls, sagging roofs, and shifted foundations. Check for gas leaks before entering. If the building looks structurally unsound, do NOT enter — it could collapse. Wait for a professional assessment.

Take extensive photos and videos of all damage before cleanup or repairs. Include wide shots and close-ups. Document damaged vehicles, outbuildings, fences, and landscaping. Create a written inventory of damaged and destroyed belongings with estimated values.

Call your homeowners insurance company as soon as possible. Tornado damage is typically covered by standard homeowners and auto insurance. Your adjuster will arrange an inspection. Don't throw away damaged items until the adjuster has seen them or approved their removal.

Cover roof holes and broken windows with tarps and plywood to prevent further damage. Board up openings. Remove valuables from exposed areas. Lock up to prevent looting. Emergency repairs are usually covered by insurance — save all receipts.

Wear protective gear: hard hat, gloves, sturdy boots, long pants, N95 mask. Work in teams. Watch for hidden hazards under debris. Separate hazardous materials (chemicals, propane tanks). Check local guidelines for debris disposal — most communities set up special pickup after tornadoes.

If a federal disaster is declared, register with FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362. Apply for SBA disaster loans for repair costs not covered by insurance. Contact local Red Cross chapter. File even if you have insurance.

Hire licensed, insured contractors. Get multiple bids. Consider adding a safe room or storm shelter during reconstruction. Use impact-resistant roofing and reinforced garage doors. Update to current building codes which include tornado-resistant standards.

Tornado survivors often experience anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD — especially children. Talk openly about your experience. Accept help from neighbors and community organizations. SAMHSA helpline: 1-800-985-5990.