ReadyOhio Are You Ready for High Winds or Tornadoes?

Are You Ready for High Winds or Tornadoes?

Would you know how to protect yourself and others from destructive high winds or a tornado? ReadyOhio encourages everyone, young and old, to learn what to do to prepare for and recover from all hazards, including tornadoes.

Know the Terms.
A tornado watch means the potential or conditions exist for a tornado to develop. Prepare to move to shelter in the lowest level of a sturdy building. Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or a local television or radio station for up-to-date weather information, including the development of tornado warnings.

A tornado warning means a tornado or funnel cloud has been spotted or is about to happen in or near your area. Take immediate action to seek safe shelter. Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or a local television or radio station for up-to-date weather information. Stay sheltered until the tornado warning has expired for your area.

Prepare a home tornado plan. Pick an uncluttered place in your home that is on the lowest level with no windows. The safest place is in the basement under a staircase. In the event of a tornado warning in your area, your family should know where to go in order to stay safe. If you are outside or in a mobile home, find immediate shelter in a nearby sturdy building.

Make a kit. Include a flashlight, portable radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days), nonperishable food, manual can opener, blankets or sleeping bags, protective clothing. Click here for a more complete disaster supplies kit checklist.

Protect your home against high winds. Remove diseased or damaged limbs from trees. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans and anything else that could become a missile-like object if picked up by strong winds or a tornado.

Consult with professionals about a "safe room". If you are building a new home or remodeling, ask about having a structurally reinforced space constructed for your family’s protection during a tornado or high winds.