Tornado Safety: Where to Shelter at Home

by Marsha Collins-Mroz 04/27/2022

Even small tornadoes can be dangerous. That's why it's important to have a plan for staying safe if one should appear in your area. If you're at home, there are several places you can take shelter from the strong winds and flying debris. Here are the best places at home to be during a tornado:

Head for the Basement

The safest place to be during a tornado is underground. If your home has a basement or cellar, that should be the first place you plan to go to take shelter. Make sure you have a stock of emergency supplies, blankets and other things to help you stay safe and comfortable while waiting out the storm underneath your house.

Shelter in Your Bathroom

If you don't have a basement, the next best place to be in your house is an interior bathroom. A bathroom might be more cramped, but if it doesn't share any outside walls or have windows, it can be a safe alternative to going underground. The more walls you can put between you and the tornado, the better.

Avoid Upper Floors

While sheltering in an upstairs windowless room might be tempting, you should still avoid the upper floor if your house has multiple stories. Even without windows, the upper parts of the home can sustain more damage from winds and flying debris, so you're better off downstairs in another room.

Beware Falling Furnishings

Think about what might be in the rooms directly above you. Avoid sheltering underneath heavy furnishings like pianos or wardrobes that could fall through the ceiling. You should also be aware of the furnishings in your chosen sheltering spot and remove anything hanging from the walls for safety.

Take Cover

When in doubt, take cover under something sturdy like a dining table or desk. Using soft layers like pillows, blankets and even mattresses can help create a buffer against debris. No matter where you take shelter in your home, staying vigilant and following your disaster plan will help you handle a tornado.

About the Author
Author

Marsha Collins-Mroz

“Whether moving across town or around the world.. My Global Partners and I will handle all the details”

Marsha Collins-Mroz, Broker, "Global Partners in Real Estate"

Marsha brings her combined 46 years of successful real estate brokerage experience and expertise to every transaction. Recognizing the overwhelming demand for personalized and objective consulting services and assistance, Marsha expanded her business model to a national and international scale. She consults and oversees the acquisition and disposition of primary residences, vacation/second homes, and commercial real estate. And presents on U.S. opportunities in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Her personally vetted network of Global Partners are uniquely skilled and positioned to assist with the needs of her clients; focusing on advancing their knowledge of local markets and opportunities, empowering them to make informed decisions.