Preparing For A Tornado
In a previous article, I elaborated on some things you could do to maximize your chances of survival when flooding moves into your area. In this article, I want to elaborate on tornadoes. Tornadoes have proven to be a lot more frightening than floods, but careful preparation can greatly reduce the chance of harm to the people living in your home. Your local Chapter of The American Red Cross can provide advice based on conditions in your area.
If the area where you reside experiences tornadoes your family should establish an effective strategy. Pick a place where family members can get together if a tornado threatens your home. Some safe places may include a basement, a hallway in the center of your house, or even a closet on the lowest floor of the house. If you find yourself trapped in a high rise building and don’t have sufficient time to get to the first floor move to a hallway in the middle of the building.
It is key to know what the different storm condition warnings entail, and what you should do when you hear them.
A tornado watch signifies that a tornado is possible in your vicinity. When a tornado watch is issued, listen to local radio and tv stations for updates. Be conscious of varying weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado (similar to the sound of a freight train) may alert you.
When a tornado warning is issued and you are already inside the tornado walls, go to the secure place you nominated as part of your family tornado strategy. Move away from windows, and as close to the middle of the house as possible. If you are outside the home when the warning is issued get inside as soon as possible. If you do not have sufficient time to get to your house, lie flat in a ditch, or low-lying area. If you are in a mobile home or car, leave the vehicle and move to a safe area, as outlined above.
After the tornado passes, keep an eye out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area; also, listen to the radio for information and instructions; use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage; and, do not use candles at any time.
Members of The American Red Cross play an important part in emergencies such as tornadoes, both before and after the tornado has passed. Volunteers can provide you with valuable advice at any time regarding preparations for tornadoes, and afterwards they are very visible in recovery efforts. You can help The American Red Cross continue their significant emergency work by donating a car or other vehicle. These donated vehicles can offer a substantial profit when they are re-sold and will make a real difference in the event of an emergency.
Looking to make a big positive impact on your local community? Consider vehicle donation as a means. The process of donating your vehicle is made easy when you follow the instructions at http://www.charitydispatch.com/redcross_donation/
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