What do you need to prepare for a tornado?
Tornadoes are one of the most destructive and unpredictable natural disasters. They can strike without warning, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. As such, it is crucial to be prepared for a tornado to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Here are some essential items and steps you should take to prepare for a tornado.
1. Create an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is a collection of essential supplies that you can use in case of an emergency, including a tornado. Here are some items you should include in your emergency kit:
– Water: One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
– Food: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
– Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
– First aid kit.
– Medications and personal items.
– A first aid manual.
– A whistle to signal for help.
– Dust masks to help filter contaminated air.
– Plastic sheeting and duct tape to create a temporary shelter.
– Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
– Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities if necessary.
– Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).
2. Develop a Family Communication Plan
In the event of a tornado, it is essential to know how to contact each other and where to meet if you are separated. Here are some steps to develop a family communication plan:
– Designate an out-of-town contact person for each family member to call if local phone lines are down.
– Choose a safe place in your home where family members can meet during a tornado.
– Make sure everyone in the family knows how to use the emergency kit and where it is stored.
– Practice your tornado safety drills regularly.
3. Secure Your Home
To protect your home from tornado damage, you should take the following steps:
– Install storm shutters or board up windows and doors with 5/8-inch plywood.
– Secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items that could become projectiles during a tornado.
– Reinforce the roof and walls of your home to withstand strong winds.
– Consider installing a safe room or storm shelter in your home.
4. Learn Tornado Safety Tips
To ensure your safety during a tornado, you should learn the following tips:
– If you are indoors, go to the lowest level of the building and stay away from windows.
– If you are in a mobile home, leave immediately and seek shelter in a sturdy building.
– If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road and stay in your vehicle with the seatbelt fastened until the storm passes.
– Avoid areas known to be prone to tornadoes, such as low-lying areas and open fields.
By following these steps and preparing for a tornado, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones during this dangerous natural disaster. Remember, being prepared is the key to survival.
