The deadly outbreak of severe thunderstorms and tornados on March 2nd that ripped through the Ohio River Valley and the South will no doubt be recorded as a historic tornado event. The Weather Channel’s severe weather expert Dr. Greg Forbes says around 80 tornados touched down on Friday.

As the aftermath of these storms illustrate, it’s essential to develop a tornado safety plan for your home, especially since we’re only at the beginning of spring. Most tornados in the U.S. occur during the spring and summer – with the highest frequency reported in the May to June timeframe.

The following are steps you can take to prepare for tornado season that may possibly save your life and your property.

1. Prepare a tornado emergency kit that includes a battery-powered or hand-charged radio or TV, a hand-charged flashlight, extra batteries for devices, cell phone, cell phone charger, an emergency whistle, a first aid kit, sturdy shoes for every family member, spare keys for your vehicles, identification, and cash.
2. Maintain an emergency supply of food and bottled water – at least 72 hours worth for each family member.
3. Designate a shelter area. If your home doesn’t have a basement or an underground storm shelter, look for the smallest area in the lowest part of your home that is away from outside walls and windows. This could be a bathroom, central hallway or a closet.
4. If you live in a mobile home, you should determine where the closest permanent structure is to seek shelter. If a permanent building is too far away or your warning time is not long enough to get to your shelter, you should lay in a ditch or depression, covering your head with your arms. Be aware of potential flooding.
5. Determine where family members will meet if you are separated during a tornado.
6. Share your emergency plan with every family member – making sure everyone knows where to go and what to do. Routinely practice tornado safety drills – especially at night.
7. Keep tree branches and bushes trimmed, especially those around power lines.
8. Fix loose siding, shingles or shutters on your home.
9. Keep loose items in your yard, like toys, tools and lawn equipment, picked up so they don’t become dangerous projectiles.
10. Make sure your homeowners’ or renter’s insurance policy is up-to-date, and you have enough coverage to replace your home’s contents in case of loss. A personal property inventory will help you document your belongings. Either complete one yourself, or if you don’t have the time, contact a nationally certified inventory professional.
11. During severe weather, stay turned to local news and pay attention to all watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service. If a tornado is spotted in your immediate area, you should grab your tornado kit, pillows and blankets; put on sturdy shoes; and seek shelter immediately. Secure your pets on leases or in carriers. Use the pillows and blankets to protect your head and neck.

The professionals at Grandview Lending hope you never have to experience the devastation of a tornado. But with advance preparation, you may be able to minimize any loss. And remember, we’re here to help you with all your home loan needs as they arise.