Tornado Safety

If a warning is issued:

• In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement.
• If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
• Stay away from windows
• Get out of automobiles
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately
  Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes and should be abandoned.
• Sometimes tornadoes develop so rapidly, there is little advance warning. Be alert to signs of an approaching tornado such as loud roar and blowing debris.

Who is most at risk?

• People in automobiles
• The elderly, very young children, physically and mentally impaired

After a tornado passes

• Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of damaged areas
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions
• Use a flashlight to inspect for damage in your home
• Do not use candles at any time because of possible gas leaks

Tornado Myths

Myth: Areas near rivers, lakes and mountains are safe from tornadoes
Fact: No place is safe from tornadoes. In the late 1980's, a tornado swept Yellowstone National Park leaving a path of destruction up and down a 10,000-ft. mountain.

Myth: The low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to "explode" as the tornado passes overhead.
Fact: Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most structural damage.

Myth: Windows should be opened before tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage.
Fact: Opening windows allows damaging winds to enter the structure. Leave the windows alone; instead, immediately go to a safe place.