Tornado watches and warnings
When a tornado is coming, you have only a short amount of time to make life-or-death decisions. The National Weather Service issues a tornado watch when tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms. This is time to remind family members or associates where the safest places within your home or office are located and listen to the radio or television for further developments. A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
If in the office
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- Go to an inside hallway or office at the lowest level possible away from all windows. Do not enter the elevators.
- 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
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- 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
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- Never try to out drive a tornado in a vehicle. Tornadoes can change direction quickly and can lift a car or truck 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 the car and lie in a ditch or low-lying area away from the vehicle.
- Be aware of the potential for flooding.
After the tornado hits
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- Help injured or trapped persons.
- 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 to the office only when authorities say it is safe.
- Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
- Leave the building if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
Updated 9/13/24