Essential Tornado Safety Tips You Need to Know

Tornadoes are violent and unpredictable natural disasters that can cause significant damage and pose serious threats to life and property. It’s crucial to be prepared and know what to do to stay safe during a tornado. Here are essential tornado safety tips:

Before a Tornado:

1. Stay Informed:
   • Keep an eye on weather forecasts and tornado warnings issued by meteorological authorities. Invest in a NOAA weather radio to receive real-time alerts.
2. Have a Tornado Plan:
   • Create and discuss a tornado emergency plan with your family. Identify a safe place to take shelter, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor without windows.
3. Build an Emergency Kit:
   • Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential items such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, important documents, and any necessary medications.
4. Designate a Safe Room:
   • If you don’t have a basement, choose a small, windowless interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of a sturdy building as your tornado shelter. A closet or bathroom under a staircase is often a good choice.
5. Practice Tornado Drills:
   • Conduct regular tornado drills with your family or household members. Practice moving quickly to your designated safe area and taking cover.
6. Secure Outdoor Items:
   • Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, garden tools, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.

During a Tornado:

1. Take Shelter Immediately:
   • If a tornado warning is issued or if you see or hear a tornado approaching, take shelter immediately in your designated safe area.
2. Avoid Windows:
   • Stay away from windows and exterior walls. Flying debris is a common cause of injury during tornadoes, and windows can shatter in high winds.
3. Protect Your Head and Neck:
   • Use your arms to protect your head and neck. If possible, get under a sturdy piece of furniture for added protection.
4. Use a Helmet:
   • Wearing a bicycle helmet or any other sturdy helmet can provide additional protection for your head during a tornado.
5. Monitor Weather Updates:
   • Keep a battery-powered weather radio or a smartphone with a weather app handy to stay informed about the tornado’s progress and receive updates on when it’s safe to emerge from your shelter.

After a Tornado:

1. Wait for the All-Clear:
   • Wait for official confirmation that the tornado threat has passed before leaving your shelter.
2. Watch for Hazards:
   • Be cautious of hazards such as downed power lines, damaged buildings, and broken glass when exiting your safe area.
3. Check for Injuries:
   • Check yourself and others for injuries and administer first aid as needed. Call for emergency medical assistance if injuries are severe.
4. Avoid Damaged Areas:
   • Avoid entering damaged buildings until authorities have deemed them safe. Be cautious of unstable structures and debris.
5. Help Your Neighbors:
   • Check on neighbors, especially those who may need assistance, such as elderly individuals or those with disabilities.
6. Use Caution with Utilities:
   • Avoid using matches, lighters, or any open flames until you’re sure there are no gas leaks. Check for gas leaks and report them to authorities.
7. Document Damage:
   • Take photos or videos of any damage to your property for insurance purposes.

Remember that tornadoes can develop rapidly, and it’s essential to be prepared to take quick action when a warning is issued. Having a plan in place and staying informed are crucial elements of tornado safety.