Tornadoes are very dangerous storms. They come from thunderstorms and look like dark, rotating funnel clouds that move across the land, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Tornadoes can be deadly, reaching around 300 miles per hour, and can destroy what they touch. Tornadoes can happen in any state and at any time, though they do have the tendency to occur from March to August. Because they are so unpredictable, the best thing for kids to do to prepare for tornadoes is to know what to do in case one happens.
Know what "Watch" and "Warning" Mean
It is important to know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A tornado watch is when the weather in your area makes it possible for tornadoes to appear. A tornado warning, however, means that a tornado has been spotted in your area and that you should find a safe place right away.
You can find out whether your town is under a watch or a warning by listening to the local radio stations or watching the news.
Know Where to Go
There are certain places in your house that can protect you and your family from getting hurt during a tornado. These places should be windowless rooms that are on the lowest level of the house, such as a basement or storm cellar. The windowless low levels will help protect you and your family against the wind and any objects that may fly around because of it, like glass.
If you don't have a basement or cellar, find a hallway or room, like a bathroom, on the lowest level of your house. If you don't have a windowless room, protect yourself underneath a heavy blanket. Once in your safe place, crouch behind a sturdy piece of furniture and cover your head.
If you are in a car, run to the nearest building. If there isn't time to get to a building, lie down flat in a ditch or low-lying area away from the car.
Make a List of What You'll Need to Bring In
Make a list of the items outside that you'd need to bring in if there were to be a tornado. On the list, include any outside pets and pet items, lawn furniture, toys or any other items you'd like to save. You'll want to bring these items in the house if your town is under a tornado watch. However, if a tornado has been spotted and a warning is issued, your only priority should be to get yourself to a safe place.
Practice with Your Family
You may not be with your family members in the same room or same place during a tornado, so it's important to have multiple plans in case a tornado comes. These plans would cover what to do when you're home alone, where to meet in the house if your family members are in different rooms and what to do in case you can't get a hold of a parent. Practicing these plans will help you remember what to do and will make you feel more comfortable if a tornado happens. These plans should be practiced with your family at least once a year, according to the National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center.
Member Comments