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:

1. 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).
2. Stay away from windows: Tornadoes can shatter glass, so avoid areas with windows.
3. 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.
4. 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:

1. Stay inside and away from windows: Move to an interior room, away from windows and doors that might break from high winds.
2. Prepare an emergency kit: Have a kit ready with water, food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
3. 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.
4. Avoid using electrical appliances: Power surges caused by lightning can damage electronics or cause fires. Unplug appliances if possible.
5. 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:

1. 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.
2. Avoid overpasses or bridges: Winds can be stronger under these structures, making them unsafe.
3. Stay away from trees and cars: Tornadoes can easily uproot trees and flip cars, so avoid sheltering near them.

For Hurricanes:

1. Move to higher ground: Flooding is a major risk during hurricanes. Avoid areas prone to flooding, like rivers, streams, or low-lying land.
2. Avoid driving: If roads are flooded, do not attempt to drive through them. Just a few inches of water can sweep a vehicle away.
3. 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

By preparing in advance and knowing what to do, you can stay safe during tornadoes and hurricanes!