Preparedness - Tornado

Before the Storm

Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school, and when outdoors.
Have frequent drills.
Know the county in which you live and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins.
Have a Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings.
Listen to radio and television for information.
If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible.

If a tornado warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches:

In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement.
If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
Stay away from windows.
Get out of vehicles.
Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately.
If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression.
Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned.
Occasionally, tornadoes develop so rapidly that advance warning is not possible. Remain alert for signs of an approaching tornado. Flying debris from tornadoes cause most deaths and injuries.

Issued when conditions are present for a tornado. Gather emergency supplies and stay tuned to a radio or TV for further information.

Issued when a tornado is imminent or in progress. Take cover immediately.