A guide on protecting yourself and your family.
Warnings/watches
Remember that a watch means that weather conditions are favorable for tornadoes and a warning means one has been spotted in your area.
- Learn the warning signals used in your community. If a siren sounds, that means stay inside and take cover.
- Consider setting up a neighborhood information program through a club, church group or community group. Hold briefings on safety procedures as tornado season approaches. Set up a system to make sure senior citizens and shut-ins are alerted if there is a tornado warning.
Seeking shelter
Do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, stay calm and seek shelter.
- At home or work, seek shelter in the central part of the building, away from windows. Basements are the best havens. If this is not an option, take cover in the bathroom, closet, interior hallway or under a heavy piece of furniture.
- If you are in your car, abandon your vehicle and seek shelter in the nearest ditch if no other facility is available.
- People living in mobile homes should vacate the premises and seek shelter elsewhere.
Protecting your property
- If a tornado watch has been issued, move cars inside a garage or carport to avoid damage from hail that often accompanies tornadoes. Keep your car keys and house keys with you.
- If time permits, move lawn furniture and yard equipment such as lawnmowers inside. Otherwise they could become damaged or act as dangerous projectiles causing serious injury or damage.
- Make an inventory of your possessions and store it off the premises. If your belongings are damaged, this list will help facilitate the claim filing process.