Final answer:
Before severe weather, it's essential to create a family safety plan, which can help to ensure safety and reduce potential damage. Investment in these preparations can bring peace of mind and could potentially save lives and mitigate financial losses in the event of a disaster like a tornado. Hence, the third option is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before severe weather occurs, such as a tornado potentially heading toward your town, it is important to take precautionary steps to enhance safety and minimize potential damage. One of the most critical steps you should take is to create a family safety plan. This involves establishing a clear plan of action that each family member understands, including identifying safe shelter locations, maintaining emergency supplies, and understanding how to communicate during and after the disaster.
Considering the scenario where a tornado may hit, we can explore four different approaches:
- Plan A: Doing nothing, which results in no initial cost but potentially significant emotional and financial costs should the tornado hit your home.
- Plan B: Boarding up windows and taking cover in a tornado shelter could incur costs for materials and perhaps emotional distress from the preparations, but in the aftermath, you would likely feel relief and safety regardless of whether the tornado struck.
Investing in protective measures like a safety plan can offer peace of mind and protection, ultimately reducing the distress and potential costs associated with severe weather.