Tornado Safety Tips

Tornadoes can occur at any time, but the normal tornado season is from March through August here in Northwest Ohio. The weather can change quickly and without warning, so preparing ahead of time can make a big difference when it comes to your family's safety.

Some quick tornado facts:

• The average tornado travels at 30 miles per hour, ranging from 0 to 70 miles per hour.
• Most tornadoes travel from the Southwest to the Northeast, but the path can be extremely erratic and change quickly.
• A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form
• A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted nearby - you should take cover immediately.

It's important to have a plan in the event a tornado is spotted in your area. Below are some tips for tornado safety:

• If your area is under a tornado watch, or if the sky turns dark, check local weather reports on the TV or radio frequently for updates so you are not caught off guard.
• Have a spot picked out in your home for everyone to gather in the event of a tornado warning. Go over why it's a good spot with your children so they will know what to do in the event of a warning when they're away from home as well.
• Avoid windows and choose a spot that will protect you from flying debris. Basements and storm shelters are a good location, as long as you're away from any windows.
  
• If you don't have a basement, the smallest room in your home (bathroom, closet) is the next best thing.
• Avoid the old advice to open an East window in your home. New findings show that opening a window actually increases the damage to your home from atmospheric pressure.
• If you're caught out in the open, find a ditch, ravine or low area if possible, lie face down and cover your head to protect against flying debris.
• If you're in your car, don't try to outrun a tornado, as it can change direction without warning. The best thing to do is stop your car and look for a sturdy building or low area to lie down in.
• If in a mobile home, it's best to leave and look for shelter in a sturdy building or low area.
• If in a building, seek shelter in the interior of the lowest floor; the stairwell area is best.
• Always have a flashlight and radio with working batteries. It will be invaluable during and even after the storm if it's dark outside and there's no electricity.