When it comes to natural disasters, myths can be nearly as damaging as the disasters themselves. Outdated beliefs and misconceptions leave many families unprepared when emergencies strike.
The truth? Proper preparation saves lives, and busting these myths is the first step toward keeping your family safe.
At Emergency List, we believe that knowledge is power. So, in this article, we’ll dispel common natural disaster myths and arm you with knowledge about practical, life-saving tips and the disaster preparedness supplies you need to stay ready.
Myth 1: Standing in a Doorway Is the Safest Spot During an Earthquake
Reality: While doorways in old, adobe-style homes once provided structural support, modern buildings are built differently. Standing in a doorway offers little protection from falling debris.
Better Strategy: Drop, cover, and hold on under a sturdy table or desk. Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects. Most earthquake-related injuries result from falling objects, not building collapses, so stay clear of anything that might come crashing down.
Myth 2: Open Windows During a Tornado to Equalize Pressure
Reality: Opening windows does nothing to reduce tornado damage—in fact, it can increase pressure, allowing high winds and debris to enter your home.
Better Strategy: Take shelter in a small, windowless interior room on the lowest floor. Tornado winds can exceed 200 mph, turning ordinary objects into dangerous projectiles, so get as far from the storm as possible. That tornado won’t be whisking you away to Oz—it’s better to stay in the basement and lock the windows.
Myth 3: Hurricanes Only Impact Coastal Areas
Reality: Hurricanes can cause severe flooding, high winds, and tornadoes hundreds of miles inland. Inland flooding from hurricanes can cause more fatalities than the initial storm surge.
Better Strategy: Prepare for possible hurricane effects regardless of your distance from the coast. Secure outdoor items, prepare for power outages, and stay informed. Don’t assume you’re safe just because you’re far from the shore—always be ready with hurricane emergency supplies, no matter where you live.
Myth 4: Taping Windows Prevents Them from Shattering
Reality: Tape does not reinforce glass. Instead, it creates larger, more dangerous shards when the window breaks. Flying glass can cause severe injuries during high-wind events. Think of taping your windows as putting a band-aid on a bone to keep it from breaking—it won’t stop the damage.
Better Strategy: Install storm shutters or use impact-resistant glass. You could even board your windows up for better protection because when it comes to windows, it’s better to secure them the right way than to hope for a miracle.
Myth 5: Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
Reality: Lightning often strikes tall or isolated objects multiple times. For example, the Empire State Building is struck by lightning an average of 20-25 times a year. In real life, lightning is a lot more likely to make a return visit than you may think.
Better Strategy: If you’re in a lightning hotspot, the odds are higher that it could hit again, so stay indoors during a storm and keep away from electrical devices, plumbing, and windows.
Myth 6: A Car Is a Safe Shelter During a Flood
Reality: While your car might feel like a safe haven, it’s more like a raft in a flood. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and 2 feet can sweep away a car. Did you know flooding causes more deaths annually than other weather events?
Better Strategy: Your best bet is to drive to higher ground and get out. Don’t let the water turn your car into a boat—it’s not a Transformer. Avoid flooded areas and turn around if necessary.
Myth 7: Emergency Services Will Always Arrive Quickly
Reality: We’d love to think that emergency services will always be right there when you need them. But during widespread disasters, first responders are often overwhelmed, dealing with much more than just your call.
Better Strategy: Be prepared to handle things independently, at least for a while. Prepare your family to handle basic first aid and self-rescue tasks. Self-reliance during the first 72 hours after a disaster can be life-saving.
Essential Steps to Improve Your Preparedness
1. Create a Comprehensive Family Emergency Plan
Start by identifying potential risks in your area. Assign “in case of emergency” roles to each family member, like “Supplies Keeper,” “First Aid Provider” (best for an adult), or “Pet Caregiver.” Set up clear communication protocols, including an out-of-town contact to reach out to.
Teach your children to recognize alarms and call emergency numbers if needed. Enroll in a first aid and CPR class to equip everyone with confidence in a disaster.
Emergency List Tip: Practice your plan regularly so everyone knows exactly what to do—no second guessing.
2. Build and Maintain an Emergency Supply Kit
A well-stocked kit can be a game-changer when disaster strikes, providing the essentials to stay safe, nourished, and comfortable during an emergency.
Here are some must-have items:
- Water: The rule of thumb is one gallon of emergency drinking water per person per day for at least three days.
- Food: Stock up on non-perishable, ready-to-eat items like granola bars, canned goods, dried fruits, or peanut butter.
- First Aid Supplies: Keep bandages, antiseptics, medications, and medical tools in a box or package for easy access.
- Communication Tools: A battery-powered radio and extra portable chargers are essentials for emergency communication and updates.
- Shelter Materials: Blankets, sleeping bags, and emergency shelters can keep your family warm and dry.
Emergency List Tip: Check expiration dates regularly and customize your kit for pets and family members with special needs.
3. Stay Informed with Reliable Resources
Misinformation spreads quickly during emergencies, making it harder to make educated decisions. To stay on top of the truth, always rely on credible sources such as:
- National Weather Service (NWS)
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- Local emergency management agencies
Sign up for weather alerts and download apps like the Red Cross Emergency App for real-time information. Staying informed gets you ready to act quickly when it matters most.
Conclusion: Preparation Over Assumption
Relying on outdated beliefs during a disaster can have serious consequences. Educating yourself, planning, and focusing on preparedness can improve your family’s safety and resilience.
At Emergency List, we’re here to guide you with trusted resources, expert advice, and high-quality supplies. Let’s move beyond myths and build a safer, more informed future together.
Start your preparedness journey today—because when it comes to safety, the facts are your best defense.