Prepare a Home Tornado Plan

• Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.
• If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit Containing:

• First aid kit and essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
•  At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
•  Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so(Remember, you'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on)

Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings

• Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information
• Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means:
  • A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area
  • A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately
• Tornado WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued by parish  

When a Tornado WATCH Is Issued...

• Listen to local radio and TV stations for further updates
• Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you. Many people say it sounds like a freight train.

When a Tornado WARNING Is Issued...

• If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area.
• If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area
• If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (as above)

After the Tornado Passes...

•  Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions
• Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage
• Do not use candles at any time