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| Myth Interview Journal |
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There are many myths about tornados; ones telling how to keep safe and others how to keep buildings safe. I stumbled across plenty and found out that opening windows to equalize air pressure will save a roof or even a house; this is a myth. Anyone who thinks that opening windows in a tornado storm obviously isn't very intellectual. If a person is in a situation where they need to be protected from a tornado or a house needs to be protected, all one can do is take safe cover and hope their house withstands the winds. There are people who believe, theoretically, opening windows in the front and back of a house would safe a roof. They say this allows air flow keeping the house stable. If a home owner opens the wrong window, air can rush in and force pressure on the house from the inside, like blowing air into a balloon. It is unlikely that the resident knows where the construction weak points are, however if one does they shouldn't open the windows near any weak construction areas.
In a real life situation, when a tornado is approaching a person while
in their home, ventilating air to equalize pressure wouldn't be an
issue. The person would most likely get scared, panic, or be smart and
find shelter in the basement or cellar. In reality, opening windows is a
dangerous and useless waste of time, and could actually be harmful to
the house. There is no evidence that any opening of windows ever helped
to hold a roof in place. The best advice is still to forget the windows
and get to a shelter. |