Tornado Safety Tips

There is no such thing as guaranteed safety inside a tornado. Freak accidents happen; and the most violent tornadoes can level and blow away almost any house and its occupants. When a tornado watch is issued, think about the drill and check to make sure all your safety supplies are handy. Turn on local TV, radio for weather reports and stay alert for warnings.

What to do during a tornado?

· Indoors: Avoid windows. Get in the basement and under some kind of sturdy protection, or cover yourself with a mattress or sleeping bag. Know where very heavy objects rest on the floor above (pianos, refrigerators, waterbeds, etc.) and do not go under them. Head protection, such as a helmet, is good also. In a house with no basement, a dorm, or an apartment: go to the lowest floor, small center room (like a bathroom or closet), under a stairwell, or in an interior hallway with no windows. Same goes for being in an office building, malls, hospitals, schools and other buildings. Stay away from large open rooms like gymnasiums and theaters.

· In a car or truck: There is no safe option when caught in a tornado in a car, just slightly less-dangerous ones. Vehicles are extremely risky in a tornado. If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado. Seek shelter in a sturdy building, or underground if possible. If you are caught by extreme winds or flying debris, park the car as quickly and safely as possible — out of the traffic lanes. Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows; cover your head with your hands and a blanket, coat, or other cushion if possible. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.

· In the open outdoors: If possible, seek shelter in a sturdy building. If not, lie flat and face-down on low ground, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Get as far away from trees and cars as you can; they may be blown onto you. (Adapted by Jessy Pearl)

Source: spc.noaa.gov