We are all too aware of the destruction and havoc a tornado can unleash. With such a dangerous threat literally looming over us, what are some ways we can protect ourselves during a tornado?
This may seem very obvious but, in a tornado, it’s important to take cover immediately, but stay out of rooms that have a lot of windows. These not only shatter, scattering dangerous glass but also allow other dangerous projectiles to enter the room.
Its best to go into interior rooms, away from outside walls. Interior walls usually remain whole during a tornado, but exterior walls do not. A bathroom is a good room to take shelter in as the plumbing and piping provide extra support to the walls.
Make sure, when taking shelter, that you are not in a place where there are heavy objects in the rooms above, such as a refrigerator or heavy piece of furniture. If the floor weakens above you, you may be severely injured by these objects falling through the floor.
If you see on the weather forecast that a tornado is possible, what are some other things you can do to prepare?
Shut off your electricity so as to avoid sparks igniting gas or other flammable items in the home. Shut off the water as well.
Move furniture away from windows, take down mirrors and picture frames from the walls. Making sure your heavier furniture like bookcases and cabinets are secured to the walls is a good thing to do even before a storm is detected.
If you are in an area that is very prone to tornados, its wise to install a storm shelter.
Always keep a disaster supply kit with you, which carries all you need in an emergency.
This is a few helpful tips to staying safe in a tornado. We all know how unpredictable they can be, so its vital to be prepared ahead of time.
