On Tuesday March 2, 2020, Tennessee was hit by a series of tornadoes that decimated more than 140 buildings and killed at least 25 people. The most powerful tornadoes were classified EF3 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, with winds hitting between 136 and 165 mph. While the natural disaster was tragic, the storms appear to have passed.
Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys sends thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by the tornadoes. Even though the storms have passed, danger still remains and it’s important that people exercise caution. With that in mind, we would like to remind you of these five crucial post-tornado safety tips.
Be Mindful of Road Hazards
Heavy winds wreak havoc on streets and highways. Almost all roads will have heavy debris on them, while some will have objects as large as trees or telephone poles. Big or small, abnormal road debris can lead to a major car accident. Vigilance is an integral part of post-tornado safety. If you must drive immediately following a tornado, do so slowly and cautiously, while keeping an eye out for road hazards.
Keep an Eye Out for Sidewalk Debris
Sidewalks will also be littered with foreign objects following a tornado, such as nails and large shards of glass. Either can lead to deep lacerations if you’re not careful.
Since many sidewalks will be cluttered and impediments may be obscured, the chances of slip-and-fall accidents are higher. If you must walk outside before sidewalks have been cleared, be sure to do so slowly and watch out for obstacles. Unless it’s an emergency, don’t run.
Erring on the side of caution is vital when it comes to post-tornado safety.
Stay Away From Downed Power Lines
Downed power lines are among the most potentially deadly hazards following a tornado. They can obviously lead to a fatal electrocution if touched, but they can also start large fires. Sparks from downed power lines combined with gasoline or wood can start fires in areas already impacted by tornadoes.
With emergency services already stretched thin, fires have a chance of becoming larger than normal. In addition to staying away from downed power lines, it’s important that you report them so that city or town officials can eliminate the danger.
Stay Away From Downed Power Lines
Downed power lines are among the most potentially deadly hazards following a tornado. They can obviously lead to a fatal electrocution if touched, but they can also start large fires. Sparks from downed power lines combined with gasoline or wood can start fires in areas already impacted by tornadoes.
With emergency services already stretched thin, fires have a chance of becoming larger than normal. In addition to staying away from downed power lines, it’s important that you report them so that city or town officials can eliminate the danger.
Do Not Enter Buildings Until They’re Declared Safe
Tornadoes can compromise the structural integrity of buildings. If you absolutely have to go somewhere, make sure that the building you’re entering is safe. Collapsing walls, falling debris, and other hazards can lead to a debilitating injury. Call the business or home you’re going to in order to make sure that the coast is clear.
Avoid Using Gas-Powered Appliances
After getting walloped by a powerful tornado, pipes may be broken or become compromised. This includes gasoline pipes. Using gas-powered appliances in your home following a natural disaster can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
In most cases, gas leaks cause people to feel nauseous, dizzy, or light-headed. In more severe cases, death can occur. Until you’re sure that all pipes are safe and sound, stick to using electric or battery-powered appliances. Also, call 911 if you smell gas (rotten eggs) to report a possible gas leak nearby.
Contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys
If you or a family member have been injured despite following proper post-tornado safety protocol, then contact Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys for immediate assistance. Our team of caring professionals and proficient attorneys can determine if your injury was caused by negligence. If so, we will do everything in our power to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve.
You can contact us 24/7 by phone at 615-333-8888 and through the Internet using our convenient LiveChat or secure online form. If you wish to visit us in person, our office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.