Tornado Prep
Plan now. Save lives later.
Watch vs Warning
- Watch — conditions favorable. Be ready.
- Warning — tornado spotted. Take shelter NOW.
- Don't wait to see it.
- Tornado sirens audible 2-3 miles.
- NOAA radio for in-home alerts.
Where to shelter
- BEST: storm shelter / underground.
- 2nd best: basement.
- 3rd: interior bathroom (mid-house, no windows).
- 4th: hallway closet.
- NEVER: trailer, mobile home, car.
- Cover with mattress / heavy blanket.
Senior tornado kit
- Closed-toe shoes (debris).
- Flashlight + battery.
- Phone fully charged.
- Glasses + hearing aids.
- Medications.
- Water + snacks.
- Whistle.
- Helmet (bike helmet works).
If mobile home
- LEAVE — get to nearest sturdy building.
- Many parks have community shelters.
- Plan ahead — know where to go.
- Know neighbor with basement.
- Don't wait until last minute.
- Mobile homes destroyed easily by tornadoes.
After tornado
- Stay in shelter 30 min after.
- Watch for downed power lines.
- Don't step on debris (nails).
- Sturdy shoes essential.
- Help neighbors.
- Take photos for insurance.
- Avoid scams (door-to-door contractors).
Storm shelter
$3K-15K install. Tax-deductible in some states. Above-ground steel safer than basement (basement could collapse). FEMA has free design plans. Tornado Alley states — worth investing if no basement. Could save lives.