Tornadoes can happen anytime and anyplace with little warning, so it’s important to be prepared. Having a plan can make the idea of storms less stressful for your whole family. They’ll know what to do and when to do it. Here are some tips and things to know from ABC 3340’s Chief Meteorologist, James Spann:
- Know when your severe weather season is: Although tornadoes can happen during any month, Alabama has a severe weather season to be mindful of. Alabama’s tornado season runs from November through May.
- Have a reliable way of hearing severe weather warnings: An outdoor siren is not reliable enough on its own. The baseline is a NOAA Weather Radio for every home and business. Be sure that emergency alerts are enabled on your phone.
- Know the safe place in your home: The best space is a small room (hall, closet, bathroom) near the center of the house on the lowest floor with no windows. You do not have to be underground.
- Get your safe place ready:
- Have helmets for everyone in your safe space: A bicycle helmet works fine. Other good choices include football helmets, batting helmets, and motorcycle helmets.Keep hard sole shoes for everyone in your safe place: This is helpful if you have to walk over tornado debris to find help.
- Have a portable air horn for all as well: Often, first responders have a hard time finding those that have been injured in a tornado; this will let them know your location and that you need help.
- What to do if you live in a mobile home: Do not stay in your mobile home if you are in a tornado warning polygon. Know the location of the nearest shelter that is available 24/7 and how to get there quickly. Be sure you have transportation available on severe weather days.
Even if your family does all the possible prep work, the thought of a tornado can be a lot for kids to handle. Learn how to talk with them about the storm and ease any fears they have.
If your home or neighborhood has damage after a tornado, check the CDC’s tips on how to stay safe.
