Tips on Staying Safe During A Tornado

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Severe thunderstorms can the be precursor to a tornado.

Severe weather season is well underway in the Triad and many of us are out and about and enjoying the outdoors.  So, what should you if you get an alert that there is severe weather in your area?  Here are some tips to better understand and prepare for taking shelter during a tornado.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A WATCH AND A WARNING

• A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for producing tornadoes in your area.  Watches are typically issued to cover large areas and can last for several areas.  No tornado has been spotted and now is the time to prepare
• A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sited or indicated on radar. This means there is imminent danger and you must seek shelter immediately.  Warning areas typically cover a much smaller area and are shorter in duration.

KEEP CALM AND SEEK SHELTER

If a warning has been issued quickly move to your basement or a small windowless room on the lowest floor of your home.  It is important to try to put as many walls between you and the outside as possible.  Get under a sturdy table or in a bathtub and cover your head and neck with a heavy blanket, coat or if time permits a mattress.  If you are in a mobile home, get out immediately and seek shelter elsewhere. Even if a mobile home is strapped down they are easily lifted by a tornado thus making them extremely dangerous.  Go to a storm shelter or neighbors.

HAVE AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT

In your “shelter area” keep a flashlight, first aid kit, extra shoes, weather radio and cell phone handy.  For a more detailed list of emergency supplies click here.

DON’T DRIVE

Tornadoes are unpredictable.  They can shift paths, speed up quickly and without warning.  If you are caught in your car pull to the side of the road as quickly as possible.  Leave your seat belt on and lower you head below window level and cover with whatever you can find such as a blanket or jacket.  If there is a ditch which is noticeably lower than the roadway exit your car and lie in the ditch keeping yourself covered as much as possible.

By staying tuned to your TV, radio or weather app on your cell you can know what is happening and prepare to protect your family.