Doorbell camera shows Michigan mom and son's incredible gesture for 93-year-old neighbor living alone when tornado sirens go off

When it comes to emergencies, one needs to be aware and know how to respond on time. Natural crises, such as tornadoes, storms and so on, wait for no one, and it is up to residents to protect themselves and their loved ones by taking timely measures. Similarly, a woman named Rileyann–who goes by @riley22ann on TikTok–ensured she took the right steps after tornado sirens went off when she was at home in Michigan. However, the mom and her son were sure to act on behalf of their 93-year-old neighbor, who lived alone, too. Their gesture has inspired people to demonstrate kindness and thoughtfulness.

Michigan has been dealing with around 25 tornadoes this year, per CBS News. With unprecedented weather, the people are well-prepared when alerted about an upcoming tornado. There are certain last-minute precautions people are expected to take, especially when they hear tornado sirens go off, per WUSF. Rick Smith, the warning coordination meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s forecast office in Norman, Oklahoma, noted that the first step is to take shelter underground or in a basement. “Your goal is to put as many walls and barriers between you and the outside as you possibly can,” Smith said.

Rileyann knew these concepts well, but before she could practice them, she was reminded of her 93-year-old neighbor, Miss Mary, who had been living alone. In another post, the mom mentioned that she had known the elderly woman for over 5 years. One of her initial encounters was during a previous storm when a tree was knocked over at Mary’s house. The worried mom rushed over to check if she was fine. Ever since, they had been a tight-knit duo, having meals, birthdays and eclipse-watching dates together. Right enough, as the duo was together in good times, Rileyann was sure to stick to her neighbor even in tough times. 

In footage captured by the doorbell camera, the young boy was seen making his way to the door through the strong winds. It was difficult to come through the powerful weather, but he made his way, opened the door and waited. Moments later, Mary followed, being held by Rileyann, as the duo made their way into the house. The mom knew that when the sirens went off, she had to go and get her neighbor to be with her. “We made it to the basement and stayed safe during the storm,” she wrote in her caption. The mom also added, “Everyone says she’s lucky to have me, but I feel luckiest because I have her.”

People commended the mother-son duo for their brave and heartwarming gesture. Many praised them for being kind to an elderly woman and being there in times she needed them the most. @riderhavingfun noted, “I know it means the world to her family to know that someone has her back.” @bringmayflowers10 wrote, “Having good neighbors is a blessing.” @countrychic035 said, “Bless you for making sure she felt the love and support she needed to keep her safe.” @suh_von_uhjade added, “God bless those beautiful souls who look out for their elderly neighbors.”

You can follow Rileyann (@riley22ann) on TikTok for content on lifestyle.