TORNADOES

Cost: $30–$60 per window
Tools/Products: ½-inch plywood sheets, circular saw, drill, screws, tape measure, marker.
How-To:

1. Measure each window’s height and width.

2. Cut plywood panels to size with a 4-inch overlap on all sides.

3. Mark each panel with its window location (“Front Left,” “Kitchen,” etc.).

4. Drill holes every 12–18 inches around the perimeter.

5. Pre-install screws or anchors so you can mount panels quickly before a storm.

Cost: $20–$100
Tools/Products: Door braces, slide bolts, metal reinforcement kits, screwdriver/drill.
How-To:

1. For exterior doors, install slide bolts (top and bottom) to prevent bowing.

2. For garage doors, add a bracing kit or vertical supports to strengthen against wind.

3. Check and replace any rusted hinges or worn weatherstripping.

Cost: $10–$30
Tools/Products: Exterior caulk (silicone/polyurethane), weatherstripping tape, caulk gun.
How-To:

1. Inspect windows, doors, and wall penetrations (pipes, vents).

2. Clean the area, then apply caulk smoothly around edges.

3. Add weatherstripping to doors and windows to prevent wind-driven rain entry.

4. Secure Outdoor Items

Cost: $0–$20
Tools/Products: Bungee cords, rope, zip ties, storage bins.
How-To:

1. Tie down or move lightweight furniture, potted plants, and tools indoors.

2. Store small objects (grill accessories, garden tools) in bins or your garage.

3. Anchor heavy outdoor items (e.g., sheds, gazebos) with straps or ground anchors.

Cost: $0–$10,000
Tools/Products: Anchors/straps, metal braces/brackets, metal sheeting, rebar, concrete blocks, cement.
How-To:

1. The safe room must be adequately anchored to resist overturning and uplift.

2. The walls, celing, and door of the safe room must withstand wind pressure and resist penetration by windborne debris and falling items such as trees.

3. The connections between all parts of the safe room must be strong enough to resist the wind forces without failing.

4. The safe room must be located outside of areas with a high risk of flooding or storm surge inundation.

Cost: $0–$30
Tools/Products: Pruning saw, loppers, gloves, ladder.
How-To:

1. Trim branches that hang over your roof or power lines.

2. Cut weak or dead limbs that could become projectiles.

3. Do this at least once a year before tornado season.

ICost: $15–$60
Tools/Products: Surge protectors, plastic covers, duct tape, small platform or cinder blocks.
How-To:

1. Use surge protectors on electronics.

2. Cover outdoor HVAC units with a waterproof tarp secured by bungee cords.

3. Elevate outdoor systems or generators slightly to reduce flood exposure.

Cost: $10–$40
Tools/Products: Shovel, gravel, flexible drainpipe extensions.
How-To:

1. Ensure soil slopes away from your home’s foundation.

2. Add drain extensions to downspouts.

3. Fill low spots in the yard where water tends to pool.

Cost: $20–$60
Tools/Products: LED lanterns, solar lights, battery packs, extension cords.
How-To:

1. Charge and store power banks.

2. Place solar pathway lights indoors at night for emergency lighting.

3. Keep batteries and flashlights in a labeled bin near your emergency kit.

Cost: $0–$25
Tools/Products: Plastic bins, zip bags, permanent marker.
How-To:

1. Group items by use (first aid, tools, food, lighting).

2. Label bins clearly and keep in an accessible interior spot.

3. Include key tools: wrench, screwdriver set, duct tape, utility knife, gloves.