Tornado
ideas for preparing for a tornado
- Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar like a freight train.
- Plan ahead. Be sure everyone in your house knows where to go and what to do in case of a tornado.
- Know the location of designated shelter areas in local public facilities such as schools, shopping centers an other public buildings.
- Know the safest location for shelter in your home, workplace, and school. Load bearing walls near the center of the basement or lowest level generally provide the greatest protection.
- Build an emergency kit.
What to Do When a Tornado Warning is Issued for Your Area
- Quickly move to shelter in the basement or lowest floor of a permanent structure.
- In homes and small buildings, go to the basement and get under something sturdy, like a workbench or stairwell. If a basement is not available, go to an interior part of the home on the lowest level. A good rule of thumb is to put as many walls between you and the tornado as possible.
- In schools, hospitals and public places, move to the designated shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest floors are generally best.
- Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Broken glass and wind blown projectiles cause more injuries and deaths than collapsed buildings. Protect your head with a pillow, blanket, or mattress.
- If you are caught outdoors, a sturdy shelter is the only safe location in a tornado.
- If you are boating or swimming, get to land and seek shelter immediately.
after a tornado
- Inspect your property and motor vehicles for damage. Write down the date and list the damages for insurance purpose. Check for electrical problems and gas leaks and report them to the utility company at once.
- Watch out for fallen power lines. Stay out of damaged buildings until you are sure they are safe and will not collapse. Secure your property from further damage or theft.
- Connect with friends and family to let them know you are safe.
know the difference
Tornado Watch- means a tornado is possible
Tornado Warning- means a tornado is already occurring or will occur soon. Go to your safe place immediately.
additional resources
-
-
Sheriff's Department
Physical Address
919 Port Street
St. Joseph , MI 49085
Phone: 269-983-7141Emergency Phone: 911