Before, during and after a Tornado?
Before a tornado:
Sometimes tornadoes do not give weather readers much time to get people prepared to take cover. Here are a few things to do in preparation, especially if you live in a tornado-prone area:
Always be aware of the safer places (Refuge areas) you can go to in your home before a tornado visits. If there is no basement in your home, consider finding a safe place close enough to your home where you can quickly take shelter. Make sure there are signs on the walls showing where the closest safe area is.
If there is enough time, grab a few first aid items and stock up on water and some emergency supplies, that can take you a few days if things get very bad.
Try to keep in touch with your local weather station, and look out for dark clouds and thunderstorms.
Be aware of the weather in your town and the suggested actions you can do to keep safe.
During a tornado:
During an approaching tornado, quickly move to your basement or designated area if you are in a public place. These days, schools, hospitals and many business building have safer places where people can take shelter.
If you are driving, or in a vehicle, make your way to the closest sturdy building and take cover. If there is none around, stay in your car, wear your seat belt and cover your head with your arms or a pillow if there is one. Never try to look into the window, or get out, as there may be flying debris that can smash your windows. Flying objects cause most of the injuries and deaths during tornadoes.
After a tornado:
Lots of injuries occur after tornadoes too. Be careful when getting out of your shelter as damaged objects and structures may fall.
Wear safety garments when walking and working through debris, as there could be broken glasses, exposed nails and other dangerous chemicals.
Do not touch power lines and objects in water puddles as there may be live electrical wires around.
If you have to clean up your home, make sure that you are wearing safety gear and are well aware of the dangers.
Keep records, notes, photos of broken items, in case your insurance company needs them.