Safety Before and During a Tornado or other Severe Weather

After the recent events with our neighbors in Joplin, Missouri, and because spring storms in the Midwest can be severe, we thought it would be fitting to remind people on how to prepare for violent weather that may help increase chances of survival during a tornado.

On the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) web site a page is dedicated to Tornadoes and how to protect yourself and your family. Below are highlights:

• As with any safety preparation plan, sit down with your family and talk about what to do in case of severe weather or a tornado. Make sure you know the tornado warning system in your town or area and can distinguish between a "watch" siren versus a "warning" siren.
• Show kids a second way to exit from each room.
• Create an Emergency First Aid Kit, keep it current, and remind family members where it is located. A tool box or fishing tackle box is a great place to store the contents.
• Keep batteries, flashlights, and a battery operated radio in your shelter. Do not use matches or lighters after a tornado until you are sure there are no gas leaks.
• Teach your kids to stay away from windows and glass and to quickly grab a blanket or pillow to cover themselves.
• Safest place during a tornado is in the interior part of a basement unless you have a storm shelter. If there is no basement, go to an inside room without windows on the lowest floor: Hallways, bathroom or closet.
• If you are outdoors, avoid areas with many trees and vehicles. Lie down in a gully, ditch or lowest spot on the ground. Cover your head with your arms.
• After a major disaster, shut off the electricity and turn off your water. Try to stay off the phone except to report an emergency. Be careful when entering any structure that has been damaged.
• Teach your kids basic first aid, like applying pressure to a wound, covering with a blanket or jacket to prevent shock and etc.