Living in areas prone to tornadoes brings a unique set of challenges. With over 1,200 tornadoes striking the United States each year, more than Canada, Australia, and all of Europe combined, the risk is unparalleled.
When these violent storms hit, they often arrive with little warning, leaving only a narrow window to act. In these moments, preparedness is crucial, and recovery afterward depends on quick access to reliable services.
Many families have emergency kits and tornado plans. However, a well-prepared list of essential services can be a crucial game-changer for immediate response and longer-term recovery.
Here are five services every household in tornado-prone areas should know the contact details of:
Storm Damage Restoration Services
Storm damage restoration services are the first responders for your property after a tornado. Tornadoes often leave homes with broken windows, damaged roofs, and structural instability. In 2022, each tornado caused an average of $684,492 in property damage, according to Consumer Affairs.
Restoration & cleaning experts are trained to assess the extent of the destruction. Once they understand the scope of the damage, they implement timely repairs to address immediate concerns.
Disaster Masterz notes that this proactive approach helps prevent further issues, such as water damage or structural instability. By acting quickly, these professionals help safeguard your home or business, ensuring it remains safe for occupancy and minimizing the risk of long-term complications.
What to Look For
When selecting a restoration service, prioritize companies with 24/7 emergency response, local experience, and certification by national restoration bodies. Look for companies that provide a full suite of services, including debris removal, water extraction, mold remediation, and temporary roof repairs.
Many restoration companies in states like Oklahoma and Texas offer free damage assessments, which can be invaluable when determining the extent of repairs needed.
Electricians with Emergency Response
In the aftermath of a tornado, electrical system damage is a frequent and serious concern. A BBC report from May highlighted that nearly 200,000 residents across multiple US states were left without power. This disruption was caused by a series of devastating tornadoes and storms.
However, power loss is only one part of the problem. These extreme weather events often leave behind hazardous conditions such as downed power lines, exposed wires, and waterlogged electrical connections.
Such damage not only disrupts essential services but also presents significant risks of electrocution or fire.
To safeguard your home and loved ones, it's essential to have a certified electrician assess the damage and repair any compromised wiring. They will also confirm that all systems are safe and functioning properly.
What to Look For
Seek out electricians with emergency response capabilities and experience in storm-damage repairs. They should offer services like inspection of wiring, replacement of damaged outlets or circuit breakers, and reconnection to the power grid.
Companies that are certified to work with insurance claims and have knowledge of local electrical codes can make the recovery process more seamless.
Moving and Storage Services
In the aftermath of a tornado, many homes can suffer extensive damage, making them uninhabitable for an extended period. In such cases, moving & storage services become essential for families needing temporary relocation.
Whether it’s moving in with friends or family or finding alternative housing, having reliable moving services at your disposal is crucial. These services can facilitate a smoother transition during a challenging time.
It's also important to note that many movers offer commercial moving services as well. If your shop or warehouse has been damaged, these companies can assist in relocating your business assets, including inventory, equipment, and furnishings.
Redwood Moving and Storage notes that these services carefully pack and transport your items to a temporary location or a new facility. This service allows you to resume operations as quickly as possible.
Roofing Contractors Specializing in Storm Damage
A strong roof acts as the primary barrier protecting your home from tornadoes. Tornadoes unleash their fury through incredibly high wind speeds, which can reach up to 300 mph in the most severe cases. If your roof is situated anywhere near a tornado’s trajectory, the likelihood of sustaining damage is significantly increased.
Following a storm, roofs often show signs of distress, including missing shingles, cracked tiles, and water intrusion. Timely roof repairs are essential to mitigate further complications, such as leaks, mold growth, and structural weakening. Addressing these issues promptly can help safeguard your home and restore its integrity.
Plumbing and Water Extraction Services
Water damage following a tornado can lead to major plumbing issues, including broken pipes, water intrusion, and sewage backups. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent health risks, water contamination, and significant repair costs.
A plumbing service that also offers water extraction can tackle a wide range of problems, from repairing broken pipes to drying out waterlogged rooms.
What to Look For
Prioritize plumbing services with experience in emergency storm response. Companies offering comprehensive water extraction and drying services are invaluable, as quick water removal is essential to prevent mold growth and structural damage.
In states like Florida, where hurricanes and tornadoes often cause flooding, some plumbing services offer waterproofing consultations to help prepare for future storms.
FAQs
What types of damage can a tornado cause?
Tornadoes can cause various types of damage, including roof damage, broken windows, structural collapse, uprooted trees, and extensive flooding. The severity of the damage typically depends on the tornado's strength and duration. In extreme cases, entire neighborhoods can be devastated, with homes reduced to debris and infrastructure severely impacted.
Are there any government assistance programs for tornado recovery?
Yes, government assistance programs may be available to help with tornado recovery. This can include federal aid through FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) for eligible individuals and households, as well as local assistance programs. Check with local emergency management offices for specific resources in your area.
How do I prevent further damage after a tornado?
To prevent further damage, cover broken windows and holes in the roof with tarps or boards until permanent repairs can be made. Remove any standing water to prevent mold growth, and ensure that your home is secure against further weather events. It's also crucial to contact restoration and repair professionals as soon as possible.
Overall, for residents in tornado-prone areas, having a well-prepared emergency plan goes beyond shelter and supplies; it includes having the right professionals on call. When every minute counts, knowing who to call for roof repairs, water extraction, electrical safety, and storm damage restoration is crucial. This knowledge can significantly impact your ability to recover quickly and safely.
Store the contact information for these essential services in both a physical notebook and your smartphone. When phone lines or internet services are down, having a hard copy of these numbers can help you stay prepared.
