Tornado weather can be difficult to predict. Tornado warnings can pinpoint an area, but not the exact time and location that a twister will set down. There are many places that are located in an area where tornadoes are frequent. They are known as “tornado alley.” This information has been compiled by the National Weather Service.
Tornado safety is critical. Preparing for the tornado is essential for everyone that is in a zone where tornado weather occurs.
Every home should have an emergency disaster kit. This kit should contain a flashlight, extra batteries, a blanket, a pillow, and some non-perishable canned foods. A case of bottled water should be in this disaster kit. The reason for the flashlight and extra batteries is in case the electricity goes off. This happens when the wind takes down power lines in the area. The tornado might not hit your location, but trees and other structures could fall and take down power lines. A blanket and pillow are used to protect the person from flying debris. Glass and other flying objects might cause injury. The blanket and pillow protects the skin from gashes. Non-perishable canned foods are necessary because the food in the refrigerator stay cooler if the appliance door is not opened during a power outage. Of course, a can opener should be in the emergency kit, also. Potable water is necessary if water systems go down. A case of water is a must for the kit, also.
A weather radio or a battery operated radio is a plus, because you will know where the tornado is located. Weather radio broadcasts alert the public to the storm or tornado approaching. A battery operated radio works in the same way.
When the warning is issued for your area, it is necessary to find a safe place to go. The place should be a room in the interior of the house, surrounded by walls and not windows. Bath tubs are safe for people who live in manufactured homes. Some Southern states have storm shelters, which are located outside of the home, underneath the ground. This storm shelter should have the emergency kit in them at all times.
If you are in a vehicle and a tornado is coming, find a ditch or gully to hide in. Do not go under a bridge or an underpass. The car will be picked up, so staying in the vehicle is not an option. Take a blanket with you to cover up when you go to the ditch area.
Vehicles should have an emergency kit in them too. The same items should be in the car as in the house.
If you cannot go to an inner room or bathroom, get under something that will protect you from flying debris. This could be under a large table, etc.
Tornadoes know no favorites. They spin and create debris clouds that have injured, killed, and crippled people. Play it safe and take the necessary precautions to stay alive in the twisters.
Information compiled from National Weather Service, NOAA radio, and personal information
