In case of a tornado or hurricane, it’s important to stay calm and follow these safety steps to protect yourself and others:
If You Are Indoors:
For Tornadoes:
- Go to the lowest level of your home: Move to a basement or storm cellar if available. If there’s no basement, go to a small, windowless interior room on the lowest floor (like a bathroom, closet, or hallway).
- Stay away from windows: Tornadoes can shatter glass, so avoid areas with windows.
- Cover yourself: Use heavy blankets, pillows, or even a mattress to shield your body from flying debris. Protect your head by crouching down and covering it with your arms.
- Stay put until it’s safe: Don’t leave your shelter until the storm has completely passed and you’ve received official confirmation that it’s safe to come out.
For Hurricanes:
- Stay inside and away from windows: Move to an interior room, away from windows and doors that might break from high winds.
- Prepare an emergency kit: Have a kit ready with water, food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
- Stay tuned for updates: Keep a battery-powered radio or mobile device with weather updates nearby. Pay attention to evacuation orders and be ready to leave if necessary.
- Avoid using electrical appliances: Power surges caused by lightning can damage electronics or cause fires. Unplug appliances if possible.
- Stay indoors until the all-clear is given: Even if the winds die down, you may be in the “eye” of the hurricane. Wait for the official word before going outside.
If You Are Outdoors:
For Tornadoes:
- Find shelter immediately: If you can’t get indoors, find a low-lying area like a ditch. Lie flat, cover your head with your arms, and protect yourself from flying debris.
- Avoid overpasses or bridges: Winds can be stronger under these structures, making them unsafe.
- Stay away from trees and cars: Tornadoes can easily uproot trees and flip cars, so avoid sheltering near them.
For Hurricanes:
- Move to higher ground: Flooding is a major risk during hurricanes. Avoid areas prone to flooding, like rivers, streams, or low-lying land.
- Avoid driving: If roads are flooded, do not attempt to drive through them. Just a few inches of water can sweep a vehicle away.
- Take cover: If you are stuck outside, find the safest building nearby. Avoid going out in the storm, especially if the winds are strong.
Emergency Kit Essentials:
- Water (at least 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Important documents (in a waterproof container)
- Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)
- Phone chargers or power banks
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Blankets or sleeping bags