4 Life-Saving Tornado Safety Tips

Tornadoes are one of nature's most violent and unpredictable forces. These powerful storms can destroy entire homes, uproot full-grown trees, and turn everyday objects into deadly projectiles. They can strike anywhere in the United States, anytime, during any season. Given their widespread threat, knowing how to stay safe is crucial. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for and survive a tornado.

1. Stay Informed

To protect yourself and your loved ones, ensure you have reliable methods to receive tornado alerts.

• Outdoor sirens: These can alert you to impending danger, but they are not always reliable, especially indoors or at night.
• Local television: Local TV stations provide on-air coverage during severe weather. However, televisions won't wake you if a tornado warning occurs while you sleep.
• NOAA weather radio: A NOAA weather radio offers up-to-date information directly from the National Weather Service (NWS). It may seem old-fashioned, but it's a dependable source for weather updates.
• Mobile phones: Wireless emergency alerts on mobile phones are among the best ways to receive tornado warnings anytime, anywhere. Ensure that emergency alerts are enabled on your device. For iOS users, go to settings, then notifications, and scroll to the bottom to activate government alerts. Using a third-party app is another option, but ensure it provides timely notifications.

2. Identify the Safest Shelter Locations

Knowing where to seek shelter quickly can make a significant difference during a tornado.

• Basements and cellars: The safest place to shelter is underground. If you have access to a basement or cellar, head there immediately during a tornado warning.
• Interior rooms on the first floor: If you don't have a basement, go to a small, windowless room on the lowest level of your home, such as a bathroom or closet. The goal is to put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
• Mobile homes: Mobile homes are extremely dangerous during tornadoes. If you're in a mobile home, evacuate to the nearest sturdy building. If that's not possible, lie in a ditch and cover your head.
• Cars: Vehicles are not safe during tornadoes, but if you have no other option, buckle your seatbelt and crouch down, or lie in a ditch away from your car.

3. Avoid High-Risk Locations

Certain places should be avoided during a tornado for safety reasons.

• Under highway overpasses: Sheltering under a bridge can be dangerous as the narrow space can intensify wind speeds.
• Outdoors: If you're caught outside with no shelter, avoid trees and other free-standing objects. Crouch in the lowest area possible and cover your head.
• Upper-level floors: If you're in a high-rise, move to the lowest level possible and shelter in an interior hallway.
• Large open spaces: Warehouses, department stores, and grocery stores are vulnerable to collapse. Find a small, enclosed area to shelter and avoid outer walls.

4. Take Extra Precautions

Taking additional measures can significantly enhance your safety during a tornado.

• Cover your head: Keep a helmet handy if possible or use your arms to protect your head. A mattress can also offer protection from flying debris.
• Be loud: Have an air horn or whistle in your shelter to signal first responders if you become trapped under debris.
• Have supplies: Keep first aid supplies in your shelter to address any injuries.
• Wear shoes: After a tornado, there could be hazardous debris on the ground. Wearing sturdy shoes will protect your feet.
• Avoid dangerous materials: Stay away from downed power lines, broken gas lines, and sharp objects if you get trapped.

By following these tips and preparing in advance, you can significantly increase your chances of staying safe during a tornado. Remember, the key to tornado safety is staying informed, having a plan, and taking immediate action when a tornado warning is issued.

Reference: 4 tornado safety tips that could save your life | Tornado Safety