Staying Safe in a Tornado
Tornadoes are violent: they can completely destroy well-made structures, uproot trees and hurl objects through the air like deadly missiles. Although severe tornadoes are most common in the Plains States, they can happen anywhere. Tornadoes continue to impact locations across the country every year, bringing massive winds and destruction of properties in their paths.
Know the Difference!
A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible.
A tornado WARNING means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon. GO TO YOUR SAFE PLACE IMMEDIATELY.
Top Tips
1. Know Where To Shelter.
Falling and flying debris causes most injuries and deaths during a tornado. Although there is no completely safe place during a tornado, some locations are much safer than others.
- Identify a safe place in your home where household members and pets will gather during a tornado: a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. If possible, avoid sheltering in any room with windows.
- For added protection get under something sturdy (a heavy table or workbench). Cover your body with a blanket, sleeping bag or mattress. Protect your head with anything available.
- In a high-rise building, pick a hallway in the center of the building. You may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor.
- Do not stay in a mobile home, choose a safe place in a nearby sturdy building. If your mobile home park has a designated shelter, make it your safe place.
- If evacuated, return only when authorities say it is safe to do so.
2. Stay aware of weather conditions.
No one can know a tornado’s strength before it touches down, so keep up with local weather information, especially when thunderstorms are forecasted. To protect yourself and your loved ones from harm during a tornado, pay close attention to changing weather conditions in your area. stay tuned to local radio and TV stations or a NOAA weather radio station for further weather information. Some tornadoes strike rapidly without time for a tornado warning. The following weather signs may mean that a tornado is approaching:
- A dark or green-colored sky
- A large, dark, low-lying cloud
- Rotating funnel-shaped cloud
- Approaching cloud of debris
- Large hail
- A loud roar that sounds like a freight train
If you notice any of these signs take cover immediately and stay tuned to local radio and TV stations, a NOAA weather radio, or the internet.
3. Be Prepared.
- Store important documents in a fireproof and waterproof safe.
- Inspect your home for possible hazards.
- Write down important information.
- Arrange and secure household items. (Furniture, large appliances, etc.,)
- Learn how to shut off utilities. (Gas, electricity, and water, at the main switches or valves). Teach all family members how and when to shut off utilities.
- Stock up on emergency supplies that can be used during and after a tornado.
