FIRE   Colerain   EMS

    TORNADO SAFETY    

(from the American Red Cross)

PREPARE A HOME TORNADO PLAN

Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your         basement or, if there is not basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.

If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

ASSEMBLE A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT CONTAINING:

First aid kit and essential medications.

Canned food and can opener.

At least three gallons of water per person.

Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags.

Battery powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.

Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members

Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (You will need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)

STAY TUNED FOR STORM WARNINGS

Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.

Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means:

        A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.

        A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area.

Tornado WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued by county or parish.

WHEN A TORNADO WATCH IS ISSUED

Listen to local radio and TV stations for further updates.

Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado my alert you. Many people say it sounds like a freight train.

WHEN A TORNADO WARNING IS ISSUED

If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area.

If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area.

If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety.

AFTER THE TORNADO PASSES

Watch our for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area.

Listen to the radio for information and instructions.

Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damages.

Do not use candles at any time.