As you're planning your outdoor event, you may wonder, "What if the weather doesn't cooperate and there's a storm during my event?" That's a great question. Asking that question now, helps you have a great event rain or shine.
Here are a few things you should do ahead of time. When planning your event:
Have an evacuation plan for the extreme worst case scenario.
Designate one person to decide when the tent should be evacuated in extreme weather.
Place the tent in an area that is not prone to flooding.
Be sure to rent tent sidewalls.
Have a rain plan for any outdoor portion of your event.
Consider renting a covered walkway for your guests to enter the tent.
Consider renting flooring if the ground may become muddy.
If severe weather is immanent:
Keep an eye on the weather forecast.
If high winds are expected, open the tent side walls to allow the wind to blow through the tent.
Tighten the ratchet straps on the tent.
If a storm does arrive during your event, like it did at this wedding, you'll be prepared. All of our tents are very sturdy and are designed to withstand storms. Of course, in the case of a very severe storm, you should vacate the tent. Tents are designed to flex and move slightly during a high wind, but here are some signs that the tent is becoming unsafe:
Wind speed is over 38 miles per hour
Tent poles are lifting off the ground.
Tent stakes are pulling out of the ground
Tent fabric is starting to tear
Nearby trees begin to fall
Lightning is striking nearby
If you are unsure about whether your tent is safe, call us at 717.733.9700 (after hours, select option 3 for an emergency). If any of these conditions occur or you feel unsafe inside the tent:
Immediately evacuate everyone to a safe building.
If no building is available, guests can go to their cars until the storm passes and the tent is secure.
After everyone is safe, call Tents For Rent 717.733.9700 and select option 3 for an emergency.
If possible, send videos or pictures of the tent to us so that we can assess what is needed to secure your tent. You may email them to tents@tentsforrent.net or text them to 717.733.9700. Please be sure to include your name and phone number.
If you are in a tent during a thunderstorm, keep everyone at least five feet from any tent pole. If the lightning is nearby evacuate everyone from the tent.
Even though many events have beautiful weather, it's always best to plan for the worst so that your even can be a success either way. Contact us to learn more about how it's always fair weather in a tent.