How To Stay Safe During Summer Storms And Prevent Weather-Related Injuries in Bedford
With more than 268,000 square miles and 10 climate zones to account for, Texas weather patterns can be wild and unpredictable. Tornadoes, hailstorms, hurricanes, and droughts can all be happening simultaneously in the Lone Star State.
Inhabitants of Bedford may not have to worry about hurricanes, but many other dangerous summer weather patterns can damage local property and take lives. Minimize the risk of injury during a summer storm by staying alert to weather changes and being ready to act when advisories are announced.
Blistering heat, unstable air masses, and wide open spaces are the stuff summer storms are made of. Extreme weather is sometimes fun to observe, but experiencing it in real-time can be frightening. Consider these tips for keeping yourself, your family, and your property safe during the summer storm season.
Staying Safe During Hailstorms
Hail can dent vehicles, break windows, and damage roofs. If a hailstone can break the windshield of your car, think of what one could do to your skull and brain.
These tips will help keep you safe:
- Pull your vehicle into a garage or carport
- Do not stop under a bridge or overpass, as strong winds could cause a car accident
- Stay inside and away from windows
If you are stuck outside when it begins to hail, avoid lowlands, culverts, and other places that could flood. Do not seek shelter under a tree. Not only is the risk of lightning high, but the hail could also damage a limb severely enough to make it break off and hit you.
Safety Suggestions for Severe Thunder and Lightning Storms
Texas thunderstorms can bring deadly flash floods. Stay inside if possible.
If you must drive, or if you are stranded outdoors, follow these safety suggestions:
- Do not drive on a road that is flooding, even if no warning or detour signs are present
- Stay away from metal objects, equipment, buildings, wiring, and other surfaces that could conduct electricity
- Do not seek shelter under a tree
Thunder and lightning storms are typically predictable and rarely take Texans by surprise. When you know a big storm is coming, take a few minutes to secure patio furniture and other loose items outdoors. If you can, arrange to stay home during the storm to help minimize road congestion and avoid car accidents caused by dangerous driving conditions.
Beware of Wildfire
In Texas, 3.4 million residents are currently living in a drought zone. Where there’s drought, there’s the potential for wildfire, especially with high summer temperatures.
With that in mind, make sure to take these safety precautions:
- Create a five-foot fire barrier around your home or business
- When renovating, use fire-resistant building materials as much as possible
- Keep portable fire equipment on hand, especially if you live in a wildfire zone
Pay attention to and cooperate with emergency evacuation plans. Of all possible summer storms, fire storms are the least predictable.
Tornadoes and High-Wind Storms Precautions
Any tornado has the potential to result in massive damage and death.
Stay safe during a tornado by following these tips:
- Seek shelter in a permanent building, like a basement or storm shelter
- Avoid mobile homes, mobile offices, and trailers
- Do not stop under a bridge or overpass
- If time permits, store or tie down loose outdoor items so they can’t become projectiles
Tornadoes can come with little to no warning. It’s not always possible to find the ideal shelter, either. Wherever you are, move to the lowest, most interior room in the building. Get inside a closet or bathroom if available.
Enjoy the Summer, but Stay Safe
A little preparation can go a long way toward helping you prevent property damage and personal injury when summer storms hit. Make sure your family remembers that this summer. When possible, stay home and remain indoors during summer storms. If you must travel, use appropriate safety precautions to protect yourself and others.
Contact the Bedford Personal Injury Lawyers of Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Fort Worth and Bedford, Texas.
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Bedford
2317 Plaza Pkwy #100,
Bedford, TX 76021
(817) 503-9200
Office Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
