Introduction
During a tornado, families should be prepared to withstand hazards ranging from severe winds to the risk of being struck by falling or flying objects. According to the Insurance Information Institute (2023), on average, around 1,000 tornadoes are reported in the United States each year. The highest number of tornadoes and lethality cases associated with them in 2022 were reported in March and May, with the state of Mississippi ranked as the location with the highest frequency of tornadoes, even though the most fatalities occurred in Iowa, which has the second-to-last ranking in frequency (Insurance Information Institute, 2023). These statistics suggest that preparedness plays a crucial role in managing the threat (Tas & Cakir, 2022). Specifically, the recommended safety measures during a tornado emergency include going to the lowest floor (or basement) and to a space without windows, hiding under a sturdy surface such as a table, and covering oneself with a blanket.
Preparing for a Tornado
After receiving a tornado alert, I would first switch off all electronic devices, both major (air conditioner, freezer, fridge) and minor (toaster, coffee maker, microwave). I would turn all the lights off and unplug the power strips. Next, I would gather the entire family on the lowest floor and board up the only window in the lowest space in our house.
In addition, I would get the children and the dog under the table, stock them with water, and instruct them not to move around the room too much. Finally, I would get our emergency kit and keep my phone close by in case I need to call emergency services. Once the entire family is sheltered in the safe space, we would wait for the tornado to hit and follow all safety instructions issued by local agencies and emergency response teams.
The Level of Preparedness in the Event of a Disaster
In the event of a disaster, the family is prepared to withstand most emergencies. The potential disasters in my area (Texas) include wildfires, hurricanes, sinkholes, and hailstorms. In addition, activities such as the exploitation of the state’s natural resources, including gas, oil, and water, can trigger earthquakes or subsidence.
We have developed a plan in case of a disaster, such as designating a location where everyone gathers or specifying the steps each family member should take when they are not at home. For instance, if children are at school when a tornado warning is issued, they will follow the instructions of their teachers and school administrators. However, it is expected that lessons will be cancelled if a tornado warning is issued earlier (Shepherd, 2020). The time between the disaster notification and its onset can determine the effectiveness of emergency preparedness efforts.
When it comes to the 72-hour “go-bag,” our family has invested in three emergency kits, each of which covers two people for three days. They are backpacks containing a first-aid kit, a survival blanket, and some food and water. These kits are readily available on the first floor of the house near the exit so the family can grab them quickly (Pickering et al., 2018). We also have flashlights and power banks for charging our devices on the go. In addition, we have created the habit of keeping at least half of the tank full so we can drive for some time without having to stop for fuel or queue at the gas station.
The family has downloaded a comprehensive emergency preparedness checklist covering six categories that should be readily available in case of an emergency: emergency water, food, first-aid kit, tools and supplies, personal items, and clothing. A separate category in the checklist outlines steps to take in an emergency, such as turning off water, gas, and electricity, locating emergency kits, finding a place to shelter, and staying in touch with everyone in the family. By having a comprehensive family disaster plan checklist regularly updated and revised, our family became more aware of the steps to take in an emergency. Finally, within the emergency preparedness plan, the family knows to follow the recommendations of the local governmental agencies.
Reflection and Conclusion
Reflecting on the family’s emergency preparedness, the overall readiness appears adequate. We have acquired the necessary emergency items and developed an agreed-upon plan of action in the case of a disaster warning. Nevertheless, it could be helpful to provide additional training for families on how to act in emergencies. Even though we have shared our knowledge with friends and other family members, it is essential to have regular discussions. In my future nursing career, knowledge of emergency preparedness strengthened my awareness of the key steps and the importance of family support throughout the process.
References
Insurance Information Institute. (2023). Facts + statistics: Tornadoes and thunderstorms.
Pickering, C. J., O’Sullivan, T. L., Morris, A., Mark, C., McQuirk, D., Chan, E. Y., Guy, E., Chan, G. K., Reddin, K., Throp, R., Tsuzuki, S., Yeung, T., & Murray, V. (2018). The promotion of ‘grab bags’ as a disaster risk reduction strategy. PLoS Currents, 10.
Shepherd, M. (2020). What if there is a tornado warning while kids wait for the bus? Forbes.
Tas, F., & Cakir, M. (2022). Nurses’ knowledge levels and preparedness for disasters: A systematic review. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 80.