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Tornado safety action guide

Tips to keep you safe before, during and after a tornado

Don't be caught off guard by the sudden onset of a tornado.

Keep your family safe by following a few simple steps that could be the difference between inconvenience and disaster.

Before:

  • Build an emergency kit that contains some essential items like drinking water, non-perishable food, a battery-operated or hand crank radio and flashlight. More details can be found at www.ready.gov/build-a-kit (Opens in a new tab).
  • Make a family communications plan to make sure that you and your loved ones are able to stay connected in the event that you’re not together when the tornado hits. A plan template can be found at www.ready.gov/make-a-plan (Opens in a new tab).
  • Make sure to be aware of changing weather conditions. Look for dark, often greenish skies, and any rotating clouds. Be sure to tune in to your radio or TV for the latest information if you notice any of those things.

During:

  • Seek shelter immediately. Go to a safe room, cellar or basement if you have one. If you don’t have a basement, go to an interior room on the lowest level possible. Be sure to keep clear windows, doors and exterior walls.
  • If you’re out in the open, get in your vehicle and put on your seatbelt. Try to drive to the nearest sturdy shelter, and watch out for flying debris.
  • If you’re in a mobile home or trailer, get out as soon as you can and go to the lowest level of a sturdy building or storm shelter.

After:

  • Be careful walking around debris. 50% of all tornado-related injuries occur after the tornado is over.
  • If your home’s been damaged, turn off the electricity and shut off the gas and propone to avoid, fire, electrocution or explosions.
  • Keep listening to your radio or TV to stay up to date on the latest emergency information.
  • We are ready to help if your home’s been damaged by a tornado. Call us for claim assistance.

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