When a tornadoes is coming, you have only a short amount of time to make life-or-death decisions. Advance planning and quick response are the keys to surviving a tornado.

BEFORE:

• Conduct tornado drills each tornado season.
• Designate an area in the home as a shelter, and practice having everyone in the family go there in response to a tornado threat.
• Discuss with family members the difference between a "tornado watch" and a "tornado warning."
• Contact your local emergency management office or American Red Cross chapter for more information on tornadoes.

Have disaster supplies on hand

• Flash light with extra batteries
• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual

If at work or school:

• Go to the basement or to an inside hallway at the lowest level.
• Avoid places with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums, cafeterias, large hallways, or shopping malls.
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture such as a workbench or heavy table or desk and hold on to it.
• Use arms to protect head and neck.

If outdoors:

• if possible, get inside a building.
• If shelter is not available or there is no time to get indoors, lie in a ditch or low-lying area or crouch near a strong building. Be aware of the potential for flooding.
• Use arms to protect head and neck.

If in a car:

• Never try to out drive a tornado in a car or truck. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift up a car and toss it through the air.
• Get out of the car immediately and take shelter in a nearby building.
• If there is no time to get indoors, get out of the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area from the vehicle. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

AFTER:

Help injured or trapped persons

• Give first aid when appropriate. Don't try to move the seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.
• Turn on radio or television to get the latest emergency information.
• Stay out of damaged buildings. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, or gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the building if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
• Take pictures of the damage - both to the house and its contents - for insurance purposes.

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