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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.