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Tornadoes are one of
nature's most violent storms. They can
appear suddenly without warning and
can be invisible until dust and debris
are picked up or a funnel cloud
appears. Planning and practicing
specifically how and where you take
shelter is a matter of survival. Be
prepared to act quickly. Keep in mind
that while tornadoes are more common
in the Midwest, Southeast and
Southwest, they can occur in any state
and at any time of the year, making
advance preparation important.
Prepare for a Tornado
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Familiarize
yourself with the terms that are
used to identify a tornado
hazard.
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A
tornado watch means a
tornado is possible in your
area. You should monitor
local radio and television
news outlets for the latest
developments.
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A tornado
warning is when a tornado is
actually occurring, take
shelter immediately.
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Determine in
advance where you will take
shelter in case of a tornado
warning.
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Storm cellars
or basements provide the
best protection.
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If
underground shelter is not
available, go into an
interior room or hallway on
the lowest floor possible.
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In a
high-rise building, go to a
small interior room or
hallway on the lowest floor
possible.
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Stay away
from windows, doors and
outside walls. Go to the
center of the room. Stay
away from corners because
they attract debris.
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A vehicle,
trailer or mobile home does
not provide good protection.
Plan to go quickly to a
building with a strong
foundation, if possible.
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If shelter is
not available, lie flat in a
ditch or other low-lying
area. Do not get under an
overpass or bridge. You are
safer in a low, flat
location.
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Plan to stay
in the shelter location
until the danger has passed.
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Get a kit of
emergency supplies. Store it in
your shelter location.
Plan to Take Shelter
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If local
authorities issue a tornado
warning or if you see a funnel
cloud. Take shelter immediately.
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Local authorities
may not immediately be able to
provide information on what is
happening and what you should
do. However, you should watch
TV, listen to the radio or check
the Internet often for official
news and instructions as they
become available.
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Stay in the
shelter location until the
danger has passed.
Stay Informed
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After a tornado
be sure to remain out of damaged
buildings and stay clear of
downed power lines.
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Help injured or
trapped people. Check on others
who may require special
assistance, such as the elderly,
children and people with
disabilities.
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Local authorities
may not immediately be able to
provide information on what is
happening and what you should
do. However, you should watch tv,
listen to the radio or check the
Internet often for official news
and instructions as they become
available.
-Info
from http://www.Ready.gov
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