| Updated: 3/01/2010 4:13 pm |
Published: 3/01/2010 4:11 pm |
With a threat of severe weather comes the possibility of tornadoes, it's a good time to learn about tornado safety. Would you know what to do if you were the target of an approaching twister?
Mostly everybody right here in central Arkansas is able to list the things they should do to be safe if a tornado is headed their way. But if you're caught in the middle of a twister, you'll only have seconds to act, and there is a good chance that panic could take over. The best thing you could do is to run through the steps you should take to stay safe and stay alive.
If you're at home during the storm, the best shelter is an interior room, such as a closet or bathroom, at the centermost point of your house. This room should have no windows. Get inside the room as fast as possible, and cover your head with a blanket, to protect yourself from flying debris.
A mobile home is not a safe place during a tornado, even if it is tied down. If you live in a mobile home, get out and find a sturdier shelter, such as a neighbor's house. If no sturdier shelter is available lie down flat on the ground and cover your head with your hands.
If you are in your car, do not try to outrun the tornado. Get out of your car, and look for a sturdier shelter. If you don't see one, find a ditch away from trees and other cars. Lie down in the ditch, and cover your head with your hands.
Many people think that an overpass is a safe place to be. This couldn't be further from the truth. Debris from the tornado, such as trees, cars, or parts of houses can easily be sucked under the overpass. This has resulted in many tornado deaths in the past. A much safer place to be would in an open area of land away from trees and cars, or a sturdy shelter nearby, such as a place of business.
If you're outside when lightning strikes, like on a golf course, never take shelter under a tree or a tall object. That tree or tall object and your club can act as a lightning rod.
With tornadoes, every second matters. You should know exactly where to take shelter, and practice tornado drills with your family.
