With tornado season rapidly approaching, it is essential to consider how best to prepare your business or organization for potential tornadoes. In this newsletter, we'll discuss some industry insights, tips, and best practices related to tornado preparedness.
A tornado WATCH means tornadoes are possible in and near your area. Be ready to act fast!
A tornado WARNING means–Take Action! A tornado is nearby. There is danger. Move to a safe location right away.
Find Shelter Locations from High Winds in the Places Where You Spend a Lot of Time
Find a safe room built to withstand high winds. The following best protection is a small room with no windows on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes and recreational vehicles (RVs) are unsafe in high-wind events—plan by finding a sturdy building to shelter before a tornado watch or warning.
Practice Tornado Drills
With your entire household, practice moving quickly to your identified safe locations.
Create a personal support team of people you may assist and who can help you.
If you live in a mobile home, practice going to a safe place.
Plan to Stay Connected
Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government.
Plan to monitor local weather and news.
Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone.
In case of a power outage, have a battery-powered radio.
Know the difference:
Tornado Watch: Be Prepared! Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Be ready to act fast!
Tornado Warning: Take Action! A tornado is nearby. There is danger. Move to a safe location right away.
You may only sometimes receive a tornado warning. Know the signs of a tornado. Take shelter if you feel you are in danger.
Gather Emergency Supplies
Gather food, water, and medicine. Stores and pharmacies might be closed. Organize supplies into a Go-Kit and a Stay-at-Home-Kit:
Go-Kit: at least three days of supplies you can carry. Include batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.)
Stay-at-Home Kit: at least two weeks of supplies.
Have a 1-month supply of medication in a child-proof container and other needed medical supplies or equipment.
Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe and easy to access (hard copies or securely backed up). Consider keeping a list of your medications and dosages on a small card to carry with you.
Learn Emergency Skills
Be ready to live without power. Utilities may be offline. Be prepared to live without power, gas, and water. Plan for your electrical needs, including cell phones and medical equipment. Talk to your doctor. Plan for backup power.
In summary, tornado preparedness requires a comprehensive plan that includes evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and emergency supplies. It is also essential to stay informed about weather conditions, ensure that your building can withstand severe weather, and have a post-tornado plan. By taking these steps, you can help keep your business or organization safe during tornado season.
Stay safe,