STAY INFORMED
During any storm, listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about watches and warnings. Many services also provide storm alerts with text messages, e-mails and even voice calls. If you are in doubt, take shelter.
WATCH FOR DANGER SIGNS
Tornadoes are typically accompanied by one or more of these danger signs:
If you see any of these natural clues, take shelter.
IF YOUR ARE CAUGHT OUTDOORS
If you are caught outdoors or in a mobile home when a tornado threatens, seek shelter in a basement, shelter or sturdy building. If you cannot quickly walk to a shelter, the American Red Cross advises you to immediately get into a vehicle, buckle your seat belt and drive to the closest sturdy shelter. If flying debris occurs while you are driving, pull over and park. Stay in the car with seat belt on and your head below the windows, covering your head with your hands and a blanket if possible. If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands. Your choice should be driven by your specific circumstances.
AFTER A TORNADO
Continue listening to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for updated information and instructions. Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and sturdy shoes when examining your walls, doors, staircases and windows for damage. Watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines and report them to the utility company immediately. The American Red Cross Tornado Safety Checklist provides more details.
RED CROSS SAFE AND WELL
If your community experiences a tornado, or any disaster, you can register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well website available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends know about your welfare. If you don’t have Internet access, call 1-866-GET-INFO to register yourself and your family.
