Tornados
Before
Planning for a tornado.
* Learn the warning signals in your area. (siren sounds)
* Conduct safety drills with your family in the home.
* Make sure all members of your family knows the correct procedures if they are at work or school when a tornado hits.
Stock emergency supplies (Click here to view emergency supplies on sale)
* Be sure you have the following basic supplies on hand and in an accessible location.
* Flashlight and batteries (long-life alkaline batteries; store in a cool dry place).
* Portable radio and extra batteries (long-life batteries; store in a cool dry place).
* First aid kit and handbook.
* Enough drinkable Water for each family member for at least three days: allow 1 gallon per person per day.
* Emergency food for at least three days: allow 3 meals per person per day.
* Required medications.
* Blankets, warm clothes, gloves and hard shoes.
* Pipe or crescent wrenches to turn off gas and water supplies.
During
Taking cover
* The safest place is underground; In a cellar or basement in your home.
* If you have no basement or cellar chose the smallest room in the middle of the house - like a closet.
* If your residents is in a mobile home seek safe shelter elsewhere at the first sign of severe weather. (community or family shelter).
* As a last resort go outside and lie flat on the ground or a ditch with your hands over your head and neck.
* If you are in your vehicle get out and seek a safe structure or lie flat on the ground or a ditch with your hands over your head and neck.
After
Keep calm. Stay in your shelter until it is safe to leave.
Check for injuries:
* Help injured or trapped persons without endangering yourself.
* Give first aid where needed.
* Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.
* Cover injured persons with blankets to keep them warm.
Check for the following potential risks.
* Fire hazard.
* Gas leaks. Shut off the main gas valve if you suspect or identify the odor of natural gas.
* Damaged electrical wiring. Shut off power at the control box if there is any damage to your house wiring.
* Do not touch downed power lines or objects of any kind.
Educate
* What is a tornado WATCH? Weather conditions are favorable for tornadoes.
* What is a tornado WARNING? A tornado or tornadoes have actually been sighted.
* If a tornado Warning has been issued; stay calm and act quickly! Follow your tornado plan and seek shelter immediately!
Source: FEMA