Tips for Staying Safe During Tornado Season

Did you know that the United States of America gets over 1,200 tornadoes a year, more than any other country? Tornado safety is an important thing to keep in mind as summer starts.

One of the things that come with living in the Midwest is preparing for dangerous weather, and tornado season is no different. For the upper Midwest, tornado season is generally in June and July, but tornadoes can be a danger during any season, depending on weather conditions. Tornadoes can pose a significant threat to life and property with their damaging winds. Blain’s Farm & Fleet wants to make sure that you and your family are safe and well-equipped during this year’s tornado season.

There are four big tips to protect your family and staying safe during tornado season, from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Have an emergency plan set in place and practice before a storm. It is important that you make sure every family member knows where to go in the house, whether it be the basement, cellar, or a secure room on the lowest floor, while staying away from doors, windows and exterior walls.

It is especially important for people who live in mobile homes to know where their sturdy shelter will be. These sturdy buildings are the safest places to be during a tornado. Another great option is a basement storm cellar.

Turn on local TV, radio or NOAA Weather Radio and stay alert for warnings and watches. This radio will be provide you and your family with the latest information. One important factor to remember is the difference between a watch and a warning. A tornado watch is issued by the National Weather service when a tornado is possible.

A tornado warning is issued by your local forecast office when a tornado has been spotted or appears on the radar. Make sure to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued for your location.

Avoid hazards and potential dangers. After a tornado, you should provide care to any injuries that may have occurred while you remain alert and aware of any hazards including damage to homes or buildings and electrical or gas lines. The high winds and heavy rains may create hazards to be watchful for. Continue to listen for important and updates and wait for periods of time for emergency personnel to arrive.

Be prepared. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so before the emergency make sure to check your emergency preparedness kit beforehand and replace any missing items. This emergency kit can be an important tool for staying safe after a disaster.

One of the most important steps that you can take is to create a essentials kit that can be accessed quickly in case of a tornado or other disaster. A proper essentials kit should include the supplies below:

• First Aid Kit
• Prescriptions and other medications
• Water (1 gallon per person, per day for a minimum of 3 days)
• Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
• Pet supplies
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Whistle to call for help
• Battery powered or hand crank radio to listen for emergency or weather updates
• Multi-purpose tool
• Duct tape
• Fire extinguishers

Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.

Preparing before disasters can make a big difference in your ability to react and keep your family safe. This has been four tips to keep your family safe from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.