Be Prepared

 Tornado

In Alabama, we have seen first hand the destruction and devastation that can be caused by tornadoes. While we have seen significant advances in predicting possible tornadoes, the time for protection is often minimal, so it is very important that you know what to do, where to go and, most importantly, that you act quickly.

Planning
Tornadoes strike quickly, so it is very important that you have a solid plan in place before the threat arises. One of the first things you should do is to prepare a disaster supply kit and place it in the area of your home or business where you will seek shelter during a tornado.

Prepare a Disaster Supplies Kit:

• First aid kit / essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
• Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (You will need a professional to turn natural gas service back on)

Your "Safe Place"

• Choose a centralized area within your home or building (hallway, bathroom or closet)
• Choose an area in a basement, if possible
• Choose an area near plumbing and away from windows or glass
• If outside, get to an indoor basement if possible or lie flat in a in a ditch or low-lying area
• If in a car, get indoors immediately or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area
• If you are in a school, go to a basement or inside hallway on the lowest level of the building and avoid large rooms

Preparedness
In conditions favorable for a tornado, it is important that you understand the level of threat in your area:

A TORNADO WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.

• Stay tuned to local radio and TV stations for further updates
• Be alert to changing weather conditions. Flying debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you.

A TORNADO WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.

• If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects
• If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area
• If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area

Response

After the Tornado:

• Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area.
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions.
• Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage.
• Do not use candles at any time (gas leaks are common and often unnoticeable)

Saferoom Information

National Weather Service