Here in Texas, we know tornados. We know the anticipation, the anxiety of an approaching storm, and we know the heartbreak and resolve that it takes to recover from a disaster. Which is why our hearts go out to the communities in Oklahoma, Iowa, and especially Arkansas that were hit by storms this past weekend.
Tornado season is here, and you had better be ready.
Texas Tornado Survival Tips
The Farmer’s Almanac is predicting that 2014 will be a rough year for those in living in central and southern Texas. While we’re hoping this isn’t the case, it is better to be prepared than to rest on our laurels and wait for the storm. Here are a few tips for keeping safe during a tornado:
Seek shelter. For those of you at home with a storm shelter, this is an easy one. For the rest of you, it may be a bit trickier. A basement should be your number one go-to, followed by a windowless room or hallway on the first floor of a sturdy building. If your only option is a room with windows, be sure to stay clear of them, and keep your body low to the ground with your head and neck covered.
Do not stay in a mobile home. Mobile homes are a dangerous place to be during a tornado. When a warning is issued, you need to get out of the house and seek shelter in a sturdier building. If you have to drive somewhere, be sure that you are aware of the tornados project path and buckle up.
Stay safe in the car. ALWAYS buckle up. If you are caught driving during a tornado, do not try to outrun it. Chances are a twister moves faster than you do. Instead, turn off the engine and park (remain buckled); bend your body down below window level and be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms.
Find lower ground. If you are outside during a tornado and cannot make it to shelter, find the lowest ground you can. A roadside ditch would be perfect. Just lay flat on your belly with your hand and arms covering the back of your neck.