Tuscarawas County Homeland Security & Emergency Management Agency

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 meeting place uncluttered, and always have your disaster kit stored there.

If you are in a mobile home and time permits, seek shelter elsewhere. If time dose not permit you to leave the mobile home, climb into the bathtub and pull a mattress over yourself. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit

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.

Tornado WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued by county or city. Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means:

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.

Be Aware Of Your Surrounding Sounds

For more info see the Tornado Protection PDF