PREPARE NOW FOR TORNADO SEASON
Dayton, Ohio, March 23, 2006 – MARCH IS RED CROSS MONTH. Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 26th to April 1st which serves as a reminder that we are entering tornado season. The Dayton Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has several suggestions to keep you and your family as safe as possible when a tornado strikes:
Prepare a Home Tornado Plan
Pick a place where your family can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It can be a basement or 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 get to the lowest floor, so pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.
Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit
Include a first aid kit and any essential medications along with items for infants, the elderly or disabled. You also need canned food, a can opener, and at least three gallons of water per person. Include protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags, a battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, and 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 and know the difference between a tornado WATCH and a tornado WARNING:
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.
When a Tornado WATCH Is Issued...
Listen to local radio and TV stations for further updates and pay attention to changing weather conditions. You may see blowing debris or the hear sound of an approaching tornado. 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. 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.
After the Tornado Passes...
Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of damaged areas, 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.
|
