How to be safe before and during a tornado
Tornadoes are fierce storms that may take away your home or even your life. They come from thunderstorms and can bring winds up to 300 mph, covering a swath as wide as a mile on the ground, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). All states are at risk, so it pays to learn how to be safe before and during a tornado. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Monitor the weather before a tornado. The air often becomes eerily still before a tornado hits, and sometimes you will see a group of clouds where the tornado will form. While tornadoes often sprout from thunderstorms, it may be clear and sunny before a tornado hits.
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Get to know the terms associated with tornadoes. Weather channels will use these to help warn you of the storms. A tornado watch means that it is possible that a tornado will strike your area. Keep the radio or TV on to stay updated. A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted in the area. Take shelter immediately if you hear a tornado warning. Keep a battery-operated radio to have the ability to listen to the weather news if you lose power.
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Take shelter immediately during a tornado. If you are at home, go to the basement, a safe room, a storm cellar or a center room on the first floor (a closet often works). The basement is best. Stay away from windows and doors that lead outdoors to avoid being hit by flying objects, glass and other debris.
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Get to a community shelter immediately if you are in a vehicle, mobile home or trailer. These are not safe places to be during a tornado. The winds will easily pick these up. Keep a list of storm shelters in your vehicle and home so you know where to go when a tornado threatens.
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Lie face down in a ditch if you are outside with no nearby shelter. Protect your head with your arms and hands. Remain there during the tornado to stay safe. Should anything fly by it won't hit you because you are lower than the ground. Most deaths and injuries from tornadoes are caused by flying debris, states FEMA.
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Create a safe room, such as in your basement. Keep emergency supplies there so you can survive a tornado. This needs to include a first aid kit, drinking water, food, blankets, flashlights and a battery-operated radio. Practice getting to the safe room with your family so you all know where to go in the event of a tornado.
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Tips & Warnings
Remain calm and have a plan.
Do not try to run away from the tornado. It's faster than you.
References
Resources
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