TORNADO SAFETY

Graham County Sheriff's Department
Hill City, Kansas U.S.A. - Don E. Scott, Sheriff

TORNADO SAFETY

TORNADO! The very word strikes fear in many people. While a tornado is perhaps nature's most destructive storm, deaths and injuries can be prevented. By following Tornado Safety Rules, lives can be saved and injuries prevented.

NOAA Weather Radio
The Voice of the National Weather Service
WWF87
Lenora, Kansas
162.425 mhz

Warning the public of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes is the National Weather Service's (NWS) most important job. To help the public prepare for tornado situations, the NWS has adopted a WATCH and WARNING program.

TORNADO WATCH: This means that conditions are favorable for tornado development. This is the time to prepare. You should keep alert by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, or the commercial media for the latest weather information.

TORNADO WARNING: This means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar. People in the path of the storm should take immediate life saving action.

IN SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS, FACTORIES, SHOPPING CENTERS AND OTHER PUBLIC PLACES: Move to designated shelter areas. Interior hallways on the lowest level are usually best. Stay away from windows and out of auditoriums, gymnasiums, or other structures with large free span roofs.

IN VEHICLES: Do not try to outrun a tornado. Abandon your vehicle and hide in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head.

Tornado Myths

MYTH: Areas near rivers, lakes and mountains are safe from tornadoes.
FACT: No place is safe from tornadoes. They can cross rivers, travel up mountains, and roar through valleys.
MYTH: Low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to "explode" as the tornado passes overhead.
FACT: Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most damage.
MYTH: Windows should be opened before a tornado to equalize pressure and minimize damage.
FACT: Opening windows allows damaging winds to enter the structure. Leave the windows alone; instead immediately go to a safe place.

TORNADO SAFETY IN YOUR HOME

	Basement is the safest place Avoid windows and chimneys Hide under furniture or stairwells Cover your head
	Seek lowest level Central section Hide under furniture or stairwells Avoid windows and chimneys Cover your head
	Lowest level Central portion of home Small room, closet or hallway Avoid exterior walls and windows Cover your head
	Seek lowest level, if available Central portion of building Small room, closet or hallway Avoid exterior walls and windows Cover your head
	Evacuation is a must Seek shelter in a nearby permanent building If not available, head for a low spot such as a ditch or ravine Cover your head

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