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What to do Before a Tornado
* Be alert to changing weather conditions.
* Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts for the latest information.
* Look for approaching storms
* Look for the following danger signs:
* Dark, often greenish sky
*Large hail
*A large, dark, low-lying cloud
*Loud roar, similar to a freight train.
* If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.
What to do During a Tornado
* If you are in: A structure (e.g. residence, small building, school, nursing home, hospital, factory, shopping center, high-rise building) Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level.
If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows.
* If you are in: A vehicle, trailer, or mobile home, get out immediately, and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.
* If you are in: The outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding.
Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries
Recovering from Disaster
Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. Ask yourself these questions after a disaster strikes in order to begin getting your home, your community, and your life back to normal.
* What health and safety guidelines should I follow?
* How do I clean my damaged home or repair and rebuild it safely for the future?
* What precautions should I take when returning home?
* Where can I get assistance?
* How do I cope with the emotional effects of a disaster?
* How can I help children cope with the emotional effects of a disaster?
* How can I help someone affected by a disaster? |
