Green Country's Guide to Disaster-Prepared Households

Natural disasters in the Tulsa Metro area, affectionately known as Green Country, can be as unpredictable as the weather in Oklahoma itself. From tornadoes to floods, homeowners have a fair share of concerns. Yet, by taking some well-advised steps to prepare, you can shield your home from damage and keep your family safe. Let’s walk through what homeowners in our region should consider to fend off Mother Nature’s less pleasant side.

Create an Emergency Kit

First on the list: an emergency kit. This kit is your first line of defense and should include items tailored to surviving Green Country's specific challenges. Be sure to pack:

• Non-perishable food and water for at least 72 hours
• First aid supplies
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• A NOAA Weather Radio for storm updates
• Important documents in a waterproof container (think deeds, insurance policies)
• Extra cash and credit cards
• Prescription medications
• Personal hygiene items

Develop an Evacuation Plan

Given our penchant for sudden storms, having an evacuation plan in Tulsa Metro is a must. Design a plan that includes:

• Multiple safe exit routes from both your home and neighborhood
• A meeting point for your family
• Contact details for local emergency services, recognizing that Green Country's geography means these might be different depending on your exact location
• A ready list of essential contacts

Secure Your Home's Structure

Green Country homes face unique threats from tornados to ice storms. To solidify your home’s defenses, you should:

• Consider storm shutters or high-impact windows to resist flying debris
• Ensure your roof shingles are securely fastened and repair any damage
• Trim trees and remove dead branches that could fall on your house
• Clear gutters and downspouts, especially important in our often sudden and heavy rainfall
• Fasten outdoor furniture and objects to prevent them from becoming airborne in high winds

Protect Against Flooding

In Tulsa Metro, where sudden downpours can lead to flash floods, consider these steps to keep water at bay:

• Install backflow valves for sewer lines to prevent backups
• Consider raising your utilities above potential flood levels
• Use waterproof sealants on basement walls
• Think about adding a sump pump with a battery backup for power outages

Prepare for Power Outages

Extended power outages are a reality here, thanks to our share of ice storms and tornadoes. To light up the dark:

• Keep a supply of batteries and invest in a portable generator
• Use surge protectors for your electronics
• A whole-house surge protector can also be a wise investment against sudden power surges when electricity returns

Review and Update Insurance Coverage

Insurance in Green Country requires attentiveness to the details:

• Annually review your policy, ensuring it covers types of disasters typical in Tulsa Metro
• Consider additional policies for floods or earthquakes, as standard homeowner policies often exclude these
• Document your belongings with photos or videos, and keep these records in a safe place
• Store critical documents in a fireproof and waterproof safe

Stay Informed

Lastly, in our quickly changing climate, keeping informed is crucial:

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and familiarize yourself with Green Country's emergency broadcast systems
• Monitor weather reports, particularly during tornado season and before winter storms
• Understand the community's emergency plans and evacuation routes

Preparing for natural disasters in Tulsa Metro doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking it step by step and focusing on the specifics of our lovely Green Country, you can protect your home and loved ones against whatever comes our way. Let’s face it, in Oklahoma, it's not a matter of if, but when. So, let’s be prepared.