Spring is a beautiful time of year, but for Northern Louisiana, it can quickly turn deadly. The change of seasons often brings violent storms and even tornadoes to our community. At McInnis Insurance , we believe that there’s no better time to prepare for tornadoes than right now. Here are a few ways to get ready and keep your family safe:

Your resources may be limited after a tornado. Damage to buildings, power lines, and pipes could close shops and limit safe drinking water for several days. Stock up on bottled water and non-perishable food items. Plan for several days without power, store foods in a cool, dry place, and make sure to include a can opener in your storage.

Invest in a battery- or crank-operated radio so that you can receive weather alerts and safety information when the power is out. Have several flashlights ready for use in an emergency, and check and replace the batteries regularly. Stock up on extra batteries to ensure that your equipment lasts throughout the emergency.

Talk with your family about tornadoes, their warning signs, and dangers and create a safety plan. Identify a room should be near the center of your home, preferably below ground, and without windows as your family shelter. Talk about what to do if a tornado hits when you’re away from home as well.

Develop a communications plan for your family if you are separated in a tornado or other emergency. Determine a meeting spot and identify an out-of-area contact that each family member can call to check in with. Memorize the phone number together as a family. Practice your emergency plan regularly.

Review your insurance policy regularly and let your agent know about any changes in assets. This will help ensure that you’re adequately covered in an emergency. Ask about coverage for wind damage, fires, and flooding, all of which can occur as a result of a tornado or severe storm, but may not be covered in your homeowners policy.

The agents of McInnis Insurance can help answer your questions and ensure that your insurance coverage is adequate to meet your needs. We have three locations in Claiborne Parish for your convenience; call or stop by at any time during our business hours.

Do you have a tornado emergency plan? What will your family do in a tornado?

Source: The American Red Cross, “Be Red Cross Ready: Tornado Safety Checklist” 2009; http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4340177_Tornado.pdf