After the devastation of a tornado many Americans are faced with picking up the pieces and putting their lives back together.
Do you know what to do after a tornado if you or a loved one are affected?
Below, we’ve summarized guidelines from the Red Cross.
Check yourself for injuries.
After a tornado has passed, you should check yourself for injuries. If you are well, do your best to help those in need until emergency responders arrive.
Notify friends and family that you’re OK.
Your family members and friends will no doubt be worried about your health and safety after a tornado strikes your area. You should reach out to them as soon as possible to let them know you’re OK.
If you’ve been evacuated from the area where you live, return only when authorities say conditions are safe.
Continue to listen to your local news stations for updates and instructions.
When checking on the well-being of loved ones impacted by a tornado…
Try calling them during off-peak hours to increase your chances of getting through. You may opt to text them—the message may go through when phone calls can’t. Also, be sure to check your loved one’s social media pages, since they may have posted a status. You can also reach out to other friends and relatives—they may have already contacted your loved one—and call people and places where your loved one is known.
If you have a missing loved one or friend who is elderly, has a medical or mental condition that is exacerbated by the disaster, has a functional or access need, or has difficulty understanding English—whether spoken or written—the American Red Cross has resources available to help you locate and reconnect with them. They also provide reunification services for other special circumstances like the aforementioned.
