With Spring finally here, it is important to be ready for one
of nature's most destructive forces-- the tornado.

While Doppler radar and tornado warning systems have
dramatically reduced fatalities, many residents in tornado-prone
states fail to take basic emergency preparedness precautions.
Tornadoes can wipe out entire towns within minutes. If you live
in a tornado-prone state, you need to prepare for the worst.

By taking basic emergency preparedness precautions before a
tornado strikes, you can dramatically reduce risk of injury to
you or your loved ones.

How do I know if a tornado is coming?

Tornado safety begins by listening for National Weather Service
advisories. A tornado watch is issued when tornadoes are
possible in your area. You need to be attuned to environmental
cues:

• Dark, often greenish sky 
• Wall cloud 
• Large hail 
• Loud roar, similar to a freight train

Implement your family’s communication plan, and make sure your
American Family Safety emergency kit is within reach. Remind all
family members where to gather if a tornado is imminent.

A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been picked up
by radar. You must immediately seek shelter. Never wait for a
tornado to appear or touch down.

Tornado Preparedness Tips

• In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such
as a basement. 
• If an underground shelter is unavailable, move to an interior
room or hallway on the lowest floor, and take cover 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.

For more information on tornadoes and tornado preparedness,
please visit the American Family Safety emergency preparedness
library, which contains numerous resources to help you and your
loved ones in the event of an unexpected emergency situation.

About the Author: American Family Safety is an international
corporation that distributes emergency supplies and emergency
preparedness education materials. Our emergency kits
(http://www.americanfamilysafety.com/emergency-kits.html)
contain all the materials needed for complete 72 hour
preparedness. More:
http://www.americanfamilysafety.com/emergency-preparedness/

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