All information contained on this page was copied directly from the American Red Cross web site. Cole County Fire Protection District assumes no responsibility for any damage to person or property due to the preceding advise.
Tornados
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 no 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. (Remember, you'll 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. Go to safety immediately.
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 may 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
(as above).
After the
Tornado Passes...
Watch out 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 damage.
Do not use candles at any time.
All information contained
on this page was copied directly from the American Red Cross web site. Cole
County Fire Protection District assumes no responsibility for any damage to
person or property due to the preceding advise.