The most important thing to know about tornadoes is that they can strike without warning. That is why you should be alert to changing weather conditions, and use both broadcast information and your own senses and experience to know when to take cover.

Tornado Watch

A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. In this case, you should be alert to changes in the weather and take precautions to protect you and your property.

During a Tornado Watch:

• Move cars inside a garage or carport. Keep your car keys and house keys with you.
• Move lawn furniture and yard equipment such as lawnmowers inside if time permits.
• Account for family members at home.
• Have your emergency kit ready.
• Keep your radio or TV tuned into the weather reports.

Tornado Warning

A Tornado Warning means that a tornado has actually been sighted. Tornadoes can be deadly and devastating storms, with winds up to 260 miles per hour. If a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately!

There is little time for closing windows or hunting for flashlights. It is a good idea to know where things are, and to have an emergency storm kit already prepared.

Tornado Preparedness:

• Learn the warning signals used in your community. If a siren sounds, that means stay inside and take cover.
• Consider setting up a neighborhood information program through a club, church group or community group. Hold briefings on safety procedures as tornado season approaches. Set up a system to make sure senior citizens and shut-ins are alerted if there is a tornado warning.
• Put together an emergency storm kit including a transistor radio, flashlight, batteries and simple first-aid items in a waterproof container.
• Make a complete inventory of your possessions for insurance purposes.
• Conduct drills with your family in the home; make sure each member knows the correct procedures if they are at work or school when a tornado hits.

During the Tornado

The safest place to be during a tornado is underground, preferably under something sturdy like a workbench.

If there is no basement or cellar in your home, a small room in the middle of house -- like a bathroom or a closet -- is best. The more walls between you and the outside, the better.

Driving During a Tornado

Tornadoes can toss cars and large trucks around like toys. Never try to outrun a tornado.If you see a funnel cloud or hear a tornado warning issued on the radio or by siren, get out of your vehicle and seek a safe structure or lie down in a low area with your hands covering the back of your head and neck.