The key to surviving a dangerous tornado is to be prepared well before a tornado strikes. Since most deaths that occur from tornadoes are the result of flying debris or objects, it is important to take shelter in an area that you can quickly get to and one that will protect you from falling or flying objects. Having a plan ahead of time that everyone in the family is aware of is crucial. In fact, families should have a tornado drill at least once a year to ensure that everyone is well aware of the plan and knows exactly what to do.
It is also important to have a meeting place where all family members gather after any kind of disaster. Precious moments can be lost looking for family members who may be safe. In addition, dangerous situations can occur after any kind of disaster, including tornadoes, so it is important that everyone know where to meet.
Aside from knowing what to do and where to go, it is important to have supplies on hand that will help you to survive a tornado. You should have a weather radio or a battery powered radio or television, and have plenty of batteries on hand. When a tornado watch is issued, stay tuned to hear whether or not the watch will turn into a warning. Once a tornado warning is issued, you may have only seconds to take cover, so it is important that your shelter is somewhere that you can get to quickly and that it is stocked with supplies.
Even if your tornado shelter is a bathroom, it is important to have supplies stashed nearby. The National Weather Service recommends that you keep mattresses, sleeping bags, or thick blankets handy so that you can use them to protect yourself from flying objects. Do not waste time opening windows as you could be injured by flying glass and there is no benefit to opening them anyway. Stay as far away from the windows as possible.
Other supplies you will want to have on hand include water, flashlights, and candles in case the electricity is off for some time. You should also have a supply of non-perishable food and a hand operated can opener. Also, keep a supply of bottled water at all times because, after many disasters, the water is not fit to drink. These supplies will serve you well after a tornado or any major disaster occurs.
If your home has a basement, this is the best place to go during a tornado. However, it is important not to take shelter directly underneath where heavy furniture or objects are located on the floor above you as they could come crashing down and crush you. If your home or apartment building does not have a basement, you should go to an interior room that does not have any windows. Be prepared to cover yourself with a mattress or thick blankets regardless of where you take shelter.
If you live in a mobile home, you will be safer by getting out of the home and lying down on the ground away from trees and cars. Find the lowest area of ground that you can find and protect your head. Of course, if there is a nearby building and you have time to get there, this is preferable, but if your only choices are the ground and the mobile home, choose the ground.
You should also know where to go if a tornado strikes while you are at work. Every place of employment should have a safety plan in place in case of any disaster. Make sure you know ahead of time where to go in case of a tornado. In addition, it is still important to coordinate with your family so that everyone knows where to meet after a disaster.
It is important to know the signs of a tornado and listen to weather reports. Although a tornado can strike anywhere at any time, it is especially important to stay tuned during tornado season. If you are in your car, do not try to outrun a tornado and do not take cover under an overpass as this can be very dangerous. If you cannot get to a safe shelter, park your car as far off the road as possible and seek shelter in a low lying area, including a ditch if there is one nearby.
For places that you frequent on a regular basis, know where to go in case of a tornado. Stores, movie theaters, and stadiums should have a tornado plan in place but you should acquaint yourself with the safe place ahead of time.
Being prepared ahead of time can save your life and the lives of others in a tornado. Know the standard procedures, where the nearest shelter is, and keep your supplies well stocked.