How to Prepare for a Tornado at Work

Funnel clouds become tornadoes when they touch ground.

Tornadoes can occur any time of year. They usually accompany thunderstorms, tropical storms and hurricanes. These grounded funnel clouds can pick up mobile homes, cars, trees and can level buildings, leaving a trail of debris and destruction. It is important to prepare for these natural disasters beforehand. Because tornadoes can strike at anytime, you should have your home ready as well as your office.

Things You'll Need

• Battery-powered or crank weather radio
• First aid kit
• Blanket
• Travel pillow
• Flashlight
• Canned goods
• Cell phone charger

Instructions

1. Buy a battery-powered or crank weather radio. This radio will allow you to follow the weather news even if the power goes out.

2. Make a first aid kit. A basic kit will do. You need one in case of minor injuries if a tornado does hit your work building.

3. Pick a safe room in your work building to go to when there is danger of a tornado. This room should be an interior room with no windows on the lowest floor possible, or in the basement if there is one.

4. Prepare a blanket and travel pillow. Sometimes tornado watches and warnings can last overnight. For your own safety, you will have to stay in your safe room of choice

5. Put together your emergency kit. Put the radio, first aid kit, blanket and travel pillow in a portable container. Add some canned goods that won't perish. Use a backpack, shopping bag or box. This makes all your items easily accessible and portable in case of an emergency. Keep your kit in your office in a place you can easily get to and where it won't be bothered or in the way.

References

• National Severe Storms Laboratory: Tornadoes
• Red Cross: What should I do to prepare for a tornado?