As the temperatures begin to warm up, so do the chances of severe weather in our area. With the number of tornado’s already reported throughout the Midwest, it is even more important than ever that you and your family are prepared for severe weather. First you must know the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning.
Tornado Watch - Tornadoes are possible. Watch the sky and listen to radio or television for more information. Be prepared to take shelter. If you see any revolving funnel-shaped clouds, report them immediately by telephone to your local law enforcement agency. If you live in a mobile home, this is the time to move to a more substantial structure.
Tornado Warning - A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter, turn on a battery-operated radio or television, and wait for the "all clear" announcement by authorities.
When a warning has been issued by the National Weather Service, sirens have been activated, or a tornado has been sighted take the following actions.
At home
- Go at once to your predetermined shelter (the basement, storm cellar, or the lowest level of the building. Stay there until the danger has passed.
- If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a small inner room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet.
- Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
- Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.
- Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table and hold on to it.
- Use sofa cushions to protect head and neck.
- If in a mobile home, get out and seek shelter elsewhere. A mobile home can overturn very easily even if precautions have been taken to tie down the unit. If there isn't a substantial shelter nearby, seek shelter in a low-lying area. Shield your head with your hands.
Preparing your family for potential severe weather will give you the advantage when the time comes to act. Be prepared!