What Skills Do You Need To Survive A Tornado?

?Do you know what skills you need to survive a tornado?

What Skills Do You Need To Survive A Tornado?

You need clear skills to stay safe during a tornado. You also need practical skills to protect your home and to make insurance claims after the storm. This article explains those skills in simple language. You will learn steps for safety, property protection, and insurance help in Florida.

Why this matters in Florida

Florida receives tornadoes from storms and hurricanes. You live in a place where wind can change fast. You need skills that match your weather and your home type.

Skill 1: Read warnings and forecasts

You listen to weather warnings. You check apps, local TV, and NOAA alerts. You know the sound of a siren in your area. You practice checking weather several times each day during storm season.

You learn when a watch means to be ready. You learn when a warning means to act now. You tell your family the difference. You make a plan for each alert level.

Skill 2: Make an emergency plan

You make a simple plan for your family. You pick a safe place in your home. You agree on where to meet after the storm. You keep phone numbers written down in one place.

You name one person who lives outside your area as an emergency contact. You tell everyone how to call that person. You practice the plan at least twice a year.

Skill 3: Choose the right shelter

You choose a shelter that will protect you from flying glass and debris. You pick a small interior room without windows. You prefer a bathroom, closet, or hallway on a low floor. If you have a basement, you use it.

You avoid cars, mobile homes, and large open rooms. You know that those places offer little protection. You teach your family how to get to the shelter in less than two minutes.

Shelter options table

Shelter type	Where it is	Why you use it
Basement	Under the house	It blocks wind and falling debris
Interior room	Small room on low floor	It has fewer windows and walls between you and wind
Interior hallway	Middle of the house	It gives some protection if no closet is available
Reinforced safe room	Built to code	It provides the highest protection if you can afford it
Mobile home	Not recommended	It can lift or move during a tornado

Skill 4: Pack and maintain an emergency kit

You pack a kit that lasts at least 72 hours. You store the kit in or near your shelter. You check the kit twice a year to replace old food and batteries.

Emergency kit table

Item	How much	Why you need it
Water	1 gallon per person per day	You need water to drink and clean
Nonperishable food	3 days	You need simple meals without heat
Flashlight	2	You need light when power is out
Batteries	Extra pack	You need power for radios and flashlights
First aid kit	1	You need basic care for small injuries
Phone charger	Portable battery	You need to call for help
Whistle	1	You need to signal rescuers
Important papers	Copies	You need insurance and ID documents
Cash	Some small bills	You may not have card service
Work gloves	Pair	You need to move debris safely
Dust masks	Several	You need to breathe in dusty places
Blankets	Per person	You need warmth if you wait outside
Tape and plastic	Rolls	You need to cover broken windows or leaks
Local maps	1 set	You need directions if GPS fails

Skill 5: Act fast and stay calm

You act fast when a warning arrives. You move to your shelter right away. You tell everyone to crouch low and cover their heads with a mattress or blanket.

You stay calm to help others. You speak in simple words. You give one clear command at a time. You do not argue in the shelter.

Skill 6: Protect your home before a storm

You secure loose items in your yard. You tie or bring in chairs, grills, and toys. You trim weak branches near your roof. You check your garage door. You reinforce the door if needed.

You look at your roof for loose shingles. You fix small roof problems now. You call a licensed roofer for bigger issues. This helps limit damage in a storm.

Skill 7: Know your insurance policy and document your home

You read your homeowners policy ahead of time. You learn what wind damage and flood damage mean under your policy. You make a simple list of the value of big items. You keep copies of your policy and your list in a safe place outside the home and in the cloud.

You make videos and photos of each room. You show furniture, appliances, and valuables. You save receipts for big purchases. You send copies to a trusted friend or store them online.

Skill 8: Take safe mitigation steps after the storm

You make the site safe after the tornado if you can do so without risk. You cover broken windows with plastic or plywood. You tarp roof holes to stop rain. You turn off gas if you smell it. You keep a safe distance from downed power lines.

You do not climb on a damaged roof alone. You do not light candles near spilled gas. You do not remove large debris without gloves and boots.

Skill 9: Photograph and record all damage

You take clear photos and videos of every damage item and area. You use a phone or camera and note the date and time. You show wide shots and close-ups.

You write a list of damage with simple notes. You keep all receipts for repairs and supplies. You keep a log of phone calls, letters, and emails with your insurer and with contractors.

Skill 10: Know when to call a public adjuster

You call a public adjuster when you feel overwhelmed or when your claim is large. You call a public adjuster if the insurer pays you too little. You call a public adjuster if the insurer denies the claim for wind or hurricane damage.

A public adjuster represents you, the homeowner. The adjuster checks damage, values loss, and negotiates with the insurance company. The adjuster helps you collect full payment under your policy.

How a public adjuster helps you in Florida

You need someone who knows Florida rules and the local market. A good public adjuster understands hurricane-related damage and local building costs. The adjuster helps you build a clear claim that an insurer must review.

You can use a local public adjuster to speed the process. Florida homes often face wind and water damage together. A public adjuster separates the damages and makes the claim clear. This clarity helps you get a fair settlement.

I recommend Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals

You can call Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals if you need help. Otero is in Pensacola, Florida, and serves homeowners across the state. They offer a free initial inspection. They only get paid when you recover money.

Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals
3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526
(850) 285-0405
https://oteroadjusting.com/

You call them for help with large claims, denied claims, or confusing settlements. You let them explain your policy and your options. You expect a clear plan and steps to get money for repairs.

Skill 11: Take small repairs carefully and keep proof

You perform small emergency repairs to stop more damage. You buy plywood or tarp and install it to cover holes. You save all receipts. You write down who helped and what time they worked.

You avoid permanent repairs until the insurer or your public adjuster inspects the damage. You do not remove major structures or evidence before the adjuster arrives. You keep everything as proof.

Skill 12: Work with contractors the smart way

You get at least three bids for big repairs. You check the contractor license and insurance. You ask for references and call them. You do not pay the full price up front.

You demand a written estimate and a schedule. You keep every contract and every receipt. You document work with photos at each stage.

Skill 13: Understand common wind and water damage types

You learn how wind, rain, and flood differ. Wind can lift shingles, break windows, or bend metal. Rain can get inside and ruin drywall and wood. Flood water can carry mud and leave stains that do not go away.

You know that flood damage often needs a separate policy. You check if you have flood insurance. You know hurricane deductibles and wind coverage limits in Florida policies.

Damage and coverage table

Damage type	Typical cause	Insurance usually pays?
Wind damage	High winds, flying debris	Often covered under homeowners policy
Hail damage	Hail stones hitting roof	Often covered under homeowners policy
Flood damage	Rising water from storms	Usually not covered without flood policy
Roof leaks	Missing shingles, punctures	Often covered as wind damage if sudden
Water intrusion	Broken windows or roof holes	Often covered if caused by covered peril
Mold growth	Post-damage moisture	Often limited or excluded; mitigation matters
Debris removal	Fallen trees and parts	Often partly covered; check policy

Skill 14: Meet your insurer but use your own advocate

You call your insurer after you document damage. You answer the insurer’s questions simply and honestly. You do not sign anything you do not understand.

You ask for a copy of the insurer’s estimate. You compare that estimate to your own list and photos. You call a public adjuster if the offer seems too low or if the insurer misses items you documented.

Skill 15: Learn to read an insurance estimate

You look at the line items in any offer. You check for roof, structural, and contents items. You find missing items by comparing to your photos and list.

You ask questions in writing. You keep each reply. You ask for more detail if the estimate uses vague terms. Your public adjuster can explain the estimate and push for more money if needed.

Skill 16: Handle temporary housing and living costs

You know the policy language for living expenses. Your policy may cover living costs if your home becomes unlivable. You keep all receipts for hotels, food, and travel during repairs.

You track extra expenses in one folder. You give the folder to the adjuster or the insurer. You ask your public adjuster to confirm what the policy covers.

Skill 17: Learn to spot scams and bad contractors

You watch for contractors who demand cash only or who ask for full payment up front. You avoid door-to-door offers that seem rushed. You check their license number with Florida’s contractor board.

You ask for proof of insurance and a written contract. You keep copies of their ID. You put payments on a credit card if possible for extra protection.

Skill 18: Keep your records for the long term

You store your claim papers, photos, receipts, and notes until the claim closes. You do not shred important papers until the insurer says the claim is final. You keep digital backups in the cloud.

You write a timeline of who visited, who called, and who worked on repairs. You keep copies of settlement checks and lien releases from contractors.

Skill 19: Learn basic safety skills for post-storm sites

You carry thick gloves and sturdy shoes. You wear eye protection and a dust mask when you clean debris. You avoid walking in standing water without a stick. You do not touch a wire that looks like a power line.

You call the power company for downed lines. You call the gas company for odors. You call local authorities for large hazards.

Skill 20: Use community and local resources

You find local shelters and emergency centers in Florida. You register with local emergency services if needed. You ask for help from neighbors and community groups.

You learn where local supply centers open after a storm. You know which local agencies give financial or food help. You use local maps to find relief services.

Sample step-by-step actions after a tornado

You follow these steps in order to protect life, home, and claims.

1. Make sure you and your family are safe.
2. Call emergency services if needed.
3. Take photos and videos of damage.
4. Make basic repairs to stop further damage.
5. Call your insurer to report the claim.
6. Call a public adjuster if you need help with the claim.
7. Get written contractor bids and keep receipts.
8. Keep a daily log of actions and calls until the claim closes.

Immediate actions table

Time after tornado	What you do	Why you do it
0–24 hours	Ensure personal safety and check for injuries	You protect lives first
0–24 hours	Photograph damage with date stamps	You create proof for the claim
0–48 hours	Make temporary repairs (tarps, board-ups)	You prevent more damage and loss
0–72 hours	Report claim to insurer and ask for next steps	You start the claims process early
1–7 days	Meet with adjuster or public adjuster	You get the damage officially recorded
1–30 days	Gather contractor bids and receipts	You create backup for repair costs
Ongoing	Keep all paperwork and photos	You keep proof until the claim ends

Common mistakes to avoid

You avoid delaying the claim report. You avoid throwing away damaged items before the adjuster reviews them. You avoid accepting the first offer without checking. You avoid hiring contractors without checking licensing. You avoid permanent repairs before discussing with your public adjuster.

You do not assume flood damage is covered without a flood policy. You do not assume living expense coverage will pay for all costs. You read your policy and ask questions.

How a public adjuster works step by step

You call a public adjuster like Otero. You get a free initial inspection. The adjuster inspects damage with you. The adjuster prepares a detailed estimate and a claim package. The adjuster sends that package to your insurer and negotiates payment for you. You pay only if the adjuster recovers money for your claim.

You can expect clear steps and regular updates. You can expect a written plan and timelines. You keep copies of each step and each communication.

When to call Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals

You call Otero if you have large damage from wind, hail, or a hurricane. You call Otero if the insurer offers a low settlement. You call Otero if the insurer denies wind or hurricane coverage. You call Otero if you need help with policy details and timelines.

You get Otero to inspect your home for free. You learn your options before you make major repair choices. You use their knowledge of Florida claims to protect your rights.

Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals
3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526
(850) 285-0405
https://oteroadjusting.com/

Practical tips for children and families

You teach children where the shelter is and how to get there fast. You show them the emergency kit and explain each item. You practice one minute drills so kids can move without fear.

You give each child a small task, like grabbing the family contact card or the flashlight. You praise calm behavior to help them act again in an emergency.

How to deal with the emotional side

You expect some fear and worry after a storm. You talk to family members and friends. You keep routines, like mealtimes or storytime, to make kids feel safe.

You ask for help from neighbors or local groups if you feel alone. You call a public adjuster to take the burden of claims off your shoulders. You take one small step each day to repair the home.

Long-term recovery skills

You plan repairs in phases. You fix the most urgent items first, like roof and windows. You save money for full repairs and check for contractors with solid reputations.

You consider reinforcements like wind straps, impact windows, and a safe room in the house. You evaluate upgrades one at a time. You stay within local building codes and get permits when required.

Safety around power and utilities

You learn how to turn off electricity, water, and gas safely. You write the shut-off steps for each utility and post them near the main entrance or the utility panel. You use a licensed professional for any electrical or gas repairs.

You do not use a generator inside a closed space. You place it outside and away from doors and windows. You read the generator instructions and wear ear protection when needed.

How to prepare for claim disputes

You keep your evidence well organized. You make a clear folder or digital file with photos, videos, and receipts. You write short notes after each call with your insurer. You ask your public adjuster to explain each settlement term so you can make good choices.

You stay polite but firm. You ask for written explanations when the insurer denies an item. You use your evidence to show what the storm did and how it hurt your home.

A simple checklist for before, during, and after a tornado

Before

• You make a plan and practice it.
• You prepare and check your emergency kit.
• You secure loose yard items and trim trees.
• You read your insurance policy and make copies.

During

• You go to your safe shelter fast.
• You cover your head and stay low.
• You stay put until authorities say it is safe.

After

• You check safety and call for help if needed.
• You photograph all damage.
• You make basic repairs to stop further loss.
• You call your insurer and a public adjuster if needed.

Final thoughts and a clear action plan

You learn simple skills to survive the storm. You protect your family first. You protect your home next. You document everything and call for insurance help when the time comes.

If you live in Florida and you need help with a claim, contact Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals. You will get a free initial inspection and a local team that understands the risks in Florida. You will have a public adjuster who works for you and only gets paid when you recover money.

Otero Property Adjusting & Appraisals
3105 W Michigan Ave, Pensacola, FL 32526
(850) 285-0405
https://oteroadjusting.com/

You can follow the steps in this article. You can practice each skill with your family. You will gain confidence to act safely and to handle insurance claims after a tornado.