Post-Tornado Cleanup
Post-tornado cleanup: safety precautions, insurance documentation, contractor selection, and community coordination.
Immediate Safety
Wait for all-clear
Assess injuries
Call 911 if seriously injured
Avoid downed power lines
Watch for gas leaks
Structural instability warning
Damage Assessment
Photograph everything before cleanup
Document contents damage
Video walk-through
Save receipts for temporary repairs
Contact insurance immediately
Preserve evidence
Utility Response
Report utility damage
Don't touch downed wires
Turn off gas at meter if you smell gas
Water damage precautions
Follow official guidance
Restoration timeline uncertain
Insurance Claim Process
Contact insurer within 24 hours
Detailed damage documentation
Save receipts for repairs and lodging
Understand your deductible
Multiple contractor estimates
Follow claim guidance carefully
Contractor Selection
Beware storm-chasing contractors
Verify licensing and insurance
Multiple estimates required
References and reviews
Written contracts
Don't sign anything under pressure
Debris Removal
Community programs may help
Federal disaster assistance if declared
Separate materials for recycling
Hazardous materials handling
Environmental considerations
Rebuilding Process
Multi-year timeline
Federal disaster aid if declared
State and community assistance
Personal financial planning
Long-term recovery
Emotional Recovery
PTSD is common
Support groups available
Professional help beneficial
Community involvement
Long-term wellness
Try the interactive simulator
Place an EF0–EF5 tornado anywhere in the world and see modeled fatalities, structural damage, and economic loss based on real census data.
Launch simulator →Try the interactive simulator
Place an EF0–EF5 tornado anywhere in the world and see modeled fatalities, structural damage, and economic loss based on real census data.
Launch simulator →