As tornado season approaches, preparedness is important. These storms can happen at any time, but they are most common during the spring time and summer time. Knowing how to act can keep you safe and prevent yourself or others getting injured.

The most important thing you can do is make a safe plan with family or friends for where ever the tornado could occur. You need to pick a safe room in your home or workplace. This should be an inside room on the lowest floor, far away from windows, or a storm cellar. This room will protect you from flying objects and direct wind of the storm. You should also put emergency supplies in this room. Make sure you have plenty of water, food that doesn’t go bad, a flashlight with extra batteries, a battery-powered radio for weather news, and a first aid kit.

When you hear a tornado warning, you must move fast. Your main goal is to find shelter immediately. If you are inside, go to your safe room or basement right away. Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls because they can break easily. If you are outside, find a low spot like a ditch and lie flat on the ground. Use your arms to protect your head and neck. Never hide under a bridge because wind can get much stronger there. If you are in a car, get out and find a sturdy building or low ditch. Cars are not safe and can be tossed around by the wind.

After the tornado is over, stay careful. Watch out for fallen power lines and broken areas. Listen to the local news for safety updates. If a building is damaged, by very careful going inside because it might be weak and could fall. Following these steps will help you stay safer during tornado season.