Whether you’re a long-time resident of Oklahoma or just moved here, you know that you need some things in your home. From the obligatory tornado shelter to certain appliances that can help with the heat, here are eight things you must have in your Oklahoma home.
1. Severe Weather Protection
In Oklahoma, severe weather is a real threat. The state sees its fair share of extreme weather, from tornadoes to severe thunderstorms and even winter storms. That’s why it’s so important to have a plan in place to protect your home and family from the potentially devastating effects of these events. You can do a few key things to prepare your home for severe weather:
- Trim trees and shrubs around your property: This will help prevent fallen branches from causing damage to your home or injuring anyone during a storm.
- Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows: These will provide additional protection against high winds and flying debris.
- Strengthen your roof: Ensure it is in good repair and can withstand high winds. Consider installing hurricane straps or other reinforcement methods to secure your roof further.
- Know your evacuation route ahead of time: If you need to leave your home during a severe weather event, know where you’re going to go and how you will get there before the storm hits. This will help you stay safe and avoid getting caught in dangerous conditions while trying to evacuate.
2. Tornado Shelters
Tornado shelters can provide a haven for you and your family during a storm. There are a variety of tornado shelters available on the market, so it’s essential to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs. Above-ground tornado shelters are typically made from steel or concrete and can be installed in your garage or backyard. In-ground tornado shelters are built into the ground and can be expensive but offer more protection from severe weather. When choosing a tornado shelter, it’s essential to consider its size, price, and features. You’ll also want to ensure it meets FEMA guidelines and is certified by the National Storm Shelter Association (NSSA). Once you’ve selected the perfect tornado shelter for your home, be sure to practice using it regularly with your family so everyone knows what to do in the event of a storm.
3. The Right Insulation
If you want your home to be comfortable all year long, it’s essential to ensure it’s properly insulated. In Oklahoma, the summers can be hot and humid, while the winters can be cold and dry. Proper insulation in your home will help keep you comfortable no matter what the weather is like outside. When choosing insulation for your home, it’s essential to consider how well it will work in your climate. In Oklahoma, fiberglass and cellulose are both excellent choices. Spray foam may be the best option if you’re looking for something that will provide even more protection from the elements.
4. Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it comes to appliances, energy efficiency is critical. That’s why, when choosing appliances for your Oklahoma home, you should look for those certified by the ENERGY STAR® program. ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances use less energy than their traditional counterparts, saving you money on utility bills.
5. A Good HVAC System
A good HVAC system is a must in any Oklahoma home. The summers here can be brutal, with temperatures often reaching triple digits. While the winters aren’t quite as intense, they can still be cold enough to cause severe discomfort if your home isn’t properly heated. When choosing a heating and air in okc for your home, you’ll want to look for a few things.
- Make sure it is sized correctly for the space. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to cool or heat your home effectively.
- Look for a system with energy-saving features like variable speed fans and programmable thermostats. These features can help reduce your energy usage and lower your utility bills.
- Choose a reputable brand that offers a good warranty. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected in case of any problems.
6. An emergency kit
You never know when an emergency might strike, so it’s always best to be prepared. Here are some things you should always have in your emergency kit at your Oklahoma home:
- A working flashlight and extra batteries
- A first aid kit
- A supply of non-perishable food and water
- A battery-operated radio
- A list of emergency contacts
By having these items on hand, you’ll be better prepared to weather any storm that comes your way.
7. A Plan for Disasters
You can do many things to prepare for disasters, but one of the most important is to have a plan. This plan should include what you will do in case of different types of disasters, how you will communicate with your family, and where you will go if you need to evacuate.
If a disaster strikes, the first thing you should do is check for injuries and make sure everyone is safe. If you are able, turn off any utilities that may be damaged or leaking. Once you have done this, staying calm and following your plan is essential. If your family is not together when a disaster strikes, it is necessary to plan how you will find each other. Make sure everyone knows where to meet and has a way to contact each other if phone lines are down.
8. Tornado Sirens
When severe weather hits Oklahoma, residents need to be prepared. One way to do that is to plan what to do when the tornado sirens sound. Here are some tips for what to do when tornado sirens go off:
- Take shelter immediately. Go to the lowest level of your home or business, and get away from windows.
- If you are in a vehicle, pull over and park. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car.
- Put on a helmet or other protective gear if you have it. This will help protect you from flying debris.
- Stay tuned to local news and weather reports for updates on the storm.
Conclusion
Oklahoma is a great place to live. These eight items will make your Oklahoma home feel complete. These items will add character and style to your home, from unique art pieces to comfortable furniture. You’ll be ready for anything with these items in your Oklahoma home.
