HOW TO STAY SAFE FROM TORNADOS

Tornadoes bring intense winds (often more than 200 miles per hour) that can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. They can also strike anytime, anywhere, so it pays to take precautions before, during, and after a tornado impacts your area.

If you receive a tornado warning, always follow the guidance of local authorities.

PREPARING YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS FOR A TORNADO

• Sign up for an early warning system. If your community does not have one, you can get emergency alerts from The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio.
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a storm, including outdoor furniture, to help avoid property damage caused by flying objects.
• Understand where and how to shut off utilities at the main switches or valves, including gas, electricity, and water.
• Check your building's heat and water periodically if your business is closed or unoccupied.
• Build an emergency kit with food, water, medicine, and other supplies, and store it in a safe location to help you respond to potential emergencies.

WHAT TO DO DURING A TORNADO

• Shelter in the safest location on your property, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. If you live in a mobile home or a home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get to quickly, such as a church or family member's home.
• Check local and national alerts for current emergency information and instructions.
• Protect yourself from possible debris by covering your head and neck with your arms. Place furniture, blankets, and other materials around or on top of you if any are available.
• Do not try to flee a tornado in a vehicle. If you find yourself outdoors or in a car and cannot get to shelter, protect yourself as above, if possible.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A TORNADO

• Continue checking alerts from the EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities.
• Avoid fallen power lines and broken utility lines.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and continue to shelter in place. Call 911 if you need immediate help, though be aware that emergency service providers may be overwhelmed immediately after a tornado.
• Wear protective gear while cleaning up like sturdy shoes or boots, long pants, work gloves, and appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.

Don’t wait to prepare for a tornado. Take action today to help protect yourself, your family, your employees, and your property from tornado-related risks.