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Many families have a plan for emergencies that arise when they’re around the house or out and about running errands, but the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) says it’s even more important to prepare plans for when you’re visiting a new place.
“Preparing before severe weather threatens is always the wisest thing to do, but it can be tricky when you’re out in public or in unfamiliar areas,” says Region VII Administrator Beth Freeman. “We want to see people consider their options and know what to do during any emergency like it’s second nature.”
Tornadoes are a big summer threat. If you plan to travel where tornadoes are common, FEMA offers some advice to those unfamiliar with tornado safety:
- Be prepared to take immediate action.If you are indoors, find the best place of refuge. The safest places during a tornado are underground: safe room, basement, cellar or lowest building level. If the structure does not offer a belowground location, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level away from corners, windows, doors and outside walls. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Wear durable shoes and do not open windows.If you plan to attend an event in an outdoor arena or stadium, take note of how you would evacuate or take shelter should a tornado hit. Many places like these will already have a plan in place; familiarize yourself.
If there is no shelter nearby or you are driving, immediately drive to the closest sturdy shelter (but only if this is within five minutes). If you are in a vehicle with no way to avoid the tornado, buckle up, keep your head below the windows and protect it with a cushion or blanket. If it’s safe to get out, try to find noticeably lower land, like a ditch, and then lie down and try to cover up. - Understand alert and warning systems.Learn about the weather alerts in the area so you can make good decisions. A tornado watch means a tornado could appear; a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or radar has identified where one will most likely appear. In both cases, seek shelter immediately.
- Understand outdoor sirens.You’ve heard it in the movies, but it’s important to learn how to recognize the real thing. Sirens in every community sound somewhat different, so become familiar with the local “brand.” Talk to local officials to discover the nuances of each siren and to learn when and why they sound.
- Plan ahead and prepare supplies.According to the National Weather Service, there is no location completely immune to tornadoes, but people outdoors or living in mobile homes are most vulnerable. To prepare, begin by creating an emergency supply kit, making a family emergency plan and purchasing an NOAA weather radio. Keep an emergency supply kit at home, at work and in the car. Review your family emergency plan regularly.Now that you have prepared for tornado safety, the most important thing is to go out and enjoy your vacation. Rest assured knowing you are ready and know how to keep your family safe.
For more summer disaster prep information and products to help you prepare, be sure to visit www.survivalbased.com.