Storms Myths vs. Facts

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Storms are certainly a sight to behold and every year it seems there are some common safety misconceptions regarding how you should handle yourself during a severe weather event. Here at your local SERVPRO of Chesterfield and SERVPRO of Tri-Cities, Plus we know that you and your family’s safety is your top priority, so we wanted to dispel some common storm safety myths in hopes that maybe we can help you protect your loved ones!

Myth: Highway overpasses are good shelters against tornadoes.

Fact: Overpasses can actually concentrate the wind from the storm and make things even more dangerous. Being above ground level is dangerous during a tornado.

Myth: Big vehicles like trucks and SUVs are safe to drive through flood waters.

Fact: NO vehicles are safe to drive through flood waters. It takes less than two feet of water to completely float most vehicles and if the water is moving rapidly, you can be easily swept away.

Myth: Flash floods only occur along areas with flowing water like streams and rivers.

Fact: Flash floods can occur almost anywhere that does not have the ability to properly drain water from a storm fast enough. This includes dry creek beds and even urban areas where no creaks or streams are present at all.

Myth: You are safe from lightning inside your home.

Fact: Since lightning is electricity, if your home is struck it could potentially travel through the wiring of your home and injure you should you be using them. It’s best to be extra cautious and avoid using electrical appliances and the bath/shower during a storm.

While sharing these myths is meant to help keep you and your family safer during storms, sometimes damage to your home is unavoidable. If you should find yourself with a damaged home after a storm give us a call and let us know how we can help!