After seeing the damaged caused last week in my former city of Murfreesboro, this is very timely information to review.
From Sheriff Joel Brott’s April Newsletter:
Did you know…About 1,000 tornadoes touch down in the United States every year?
Make sure you and your family are ready for severe weather -
Plan, Prepare, Practice, and Stay Informed
- Plan – Create a plan for your family.
- Prepare – Put together an emergency supply kit for your family.
- Practice – Make sure your family members know what to do in an emergency.
- Stay Informed – Listen to radio and television stations for updated storm information.
During a Tornado Watch
- Stay tuned to radio or TV for updates.
- Be prepared to take shelter at any time.
- Watch the sky for funnel-shaped clouds and pay attention to tornado danger signs including dark, greenish sky, large hail, and a loud roar similar to a freight train.
- Stay out of large, flat buildings with wide-open areas such as supermarkets or shopping malls.
- Stock your home shelter area with a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, water, and a first-aid kit.
During a Tornado Warning
- Head for the designated shelter or a central area on the lowest floor of a nearby building.
- In a high-rise, get to the lowest floor possible and go to an interior room.
- Leave vehicles and mobile homes at once. Seek shelter in a sturdy building.
- If you are caught outside, lie flat in a ditch and cover your head. Do not get under bridges or overpasses.
- Never attempt to outrun a tornado.
After a Tornado
- Watch out for debris—especially broken glass—and down electrical lines.
- Be careful when entering a tornado-damaged structure. Make sure the walls and roof are in place and the foundation is sound.
Resource: Sherburne County Are You Ready Workgroup
