Tornado: Necessary Citizen Response

As tornados evolve to full complexity very quickly, one must keep very aware in order to keep fully protected.

If you are at home during a tornado:
  • Quickly to the basement, storm cellar or the lowest level of the building. If there is no basement, go to an inner hallway or a small inner room without a window, such as a bathroom or a closet.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Head to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they tend to attract debris.
  • Get underneath a piece of very sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table.
If you are at work or school:
  • Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.
  • Fully avoid wide rooms such as auditoriums, cafeterias or large hallways.
  • Get underneath a piece of sturdy furniture such as a desk.
If you are outdoors:
  • If possible, get inside a building.
  • If protection is not available or there is little time to run indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building.
  • Use your arms to protect your head and neck. If in a car or truck:
  • Never try to "out-drive" or "out-run" a tornado. They can change velocity quickly and can easily lift up a car or truck and toss it as a projectile in the air.

After the Tornado

After a tornado passes through the region, remember to check on the following things:

  1. Gas leaks. If you smell the strong odor of leaking gas, evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company. Do not turn on any switches.
  2. Electrocution. Check external utility lines and cooking appliances for damage. If electrical wiring appears damaged, turn off all current at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.
  3. Structural damage. Keep cognizant of falling debris and the possibility of building collapse.
  4. Water. If water pipes are damaged, avoid tap water as it may be contaminated. Damaged sewage systems should be repaired as soon as possible for they are health hazards.

Sources Consulted

Sources