If you have been through a tornado then you know how chaotic it can be. Before you faced with another severe storm you should find out the best places for you to take shelter. Planning where you will go, depending on where you are at the time the storm strikes, is best done well before a tornado is imminent. The biggest danger with a tornado is flying debris. Therefore you want to choose shelter that will minimize your exposure to flying debris.
If you are at home pick a room with no windows. A basement is the safest part of the house. If you don’t have a basement, then choose a room in the center of the house on the bottom floor. A closet, bathroom or hallway can be good choices. If there is a sturdy piece of furniture such as a table then get under the table. Or cover your head with a mattress or heavy blankets. In case of a floor collapse, don’t choose a space underneath a room that heavy appliances or furniture that could fall through the floor onto you. Immediately your home if you are in a mobile home. Being outdoors lying flat on the ground is safer than being inside a mobile home.
If you are on the road when a tornado is approaching get out of your car. Even heavy vehicles are easily turned over by strong winds that come with a tornado. Avoid other vehicles and trees. Never get under your car. If there is a ditch or low area lie down in the area and put heavy clothing or your arms over your head for protection.
In a building with a large roof such as a theatre or mall, try to find another shelter. If there is no time then get under your theatre seat, under a door frame, or under a heavy piece of furniture – anything that could protect you from flying debris. Stay away from a large expanse of roof, windows, doors, and anything made of glass. Go to the lowest floor available. Find out if there is a basement that could provide shelter.
If you are at work, school, or church then go to the lowest level and stay away from windows. Go to the center part of the building. Use only the stairs since elevators can fail during a power outage. Kneel down on the floor and put your head down, covering your head with your arms, a blanket or heavy clothing.
If you have time go to the shelters that your community has designated as safe areas during a tornado. Often these are gymnasiums or public buildings. Find out these well in advance of bad weather.