Tornado Safety

Mouse over the icons on the interactive image below for tornado safety tips.

During a Tornado

Indoors

• Go to a pre-designated area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level, closet, or interior hallway.

• Stay away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
• Make sure to put on shoes.
• Do not open windows.

Outside

• Immediately get into a vehicle, buckle your seat belt and try to drive to the closest sturdy shelter. If your vehicle is hit by flying debris while you are driving, pull over and park.
• Take cover in a stationary vehicle. Put the seat belt on and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.
• Lie in an area noticeably lower than the level of the roadway and cover your head with your arms and a blanket, coat or other cushion if possible.
• Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
• Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Leave vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
• Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

In a Manufactured Home or Office

• Get out immediately, go to a pre-determined building or storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.