How to Prepare for a Tornado

A total of 98 people have died from damage caused by tornadoes in the U.S. already this year, making it the deadliest tornado season since 1998, with a lot more months of twister action to come. 2008 already ranks as the seventh most deadly tornado season since records began being kept in 1950. Here is how you and your family can prepare for an oncoming tornado.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A Safety Plan
• Flashlight(s)
• Supply Kit
• Radio/TV
• Safe Shelter

1. Prepare a Home Tornado Plan.
   
   Pick a place where your family can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It can be a basement or a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered. If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to get to the lowest floor, so pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.
2. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit.
   
   Include a first aid kit and any essential medications along with items for infants, the elderly or disabled. You also need canned food, a can opener, and at least three gallons of water per person. Include protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags, a battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, and written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)
3. Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings.
   
   Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information and know the difference between a tornado WATCH and a tornado WARNING:
   
   A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.
   A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.
   Tornado WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued by county or parish.
4. When a Tornado WATCH Is Issued...
   
   Listen to local radio and TV stations for further updates and pay attention to changing weather conditions. You may see blowing debris or the hear sound of an approaching tornado. Many people say it sounds like a freight train.
5. When a Tornado WARNING Is Issued...
   
   If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety.
6. After the Tornado Passes...
   
   Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of damaged areas, listen to the radio for information and instructions, use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage and do not use candles at any time.