Tornadoes are powerful and destructive storms that can strike anywhere and anytime. They can cause serious damage to buildings, vehicles, trees, and power lines. They can also injure or kill people and animals. They hit with very little notice, so get prepared before a tornado hits.

• Monitor the weather. Stay tuned to local radio, TV, or internet for weather updates and alerts. You can also sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government or use a NOAA weather radio to get updates on all the weather conditions in your area.
• Plan communication methods. Make sure you have a way to contact your family and friends in case of an emergency. Have a backup battery or a charger for your cell phone. Write down important phone numbers (because we all know that we do not remember phone numbers any more) and keep them in a safe place (a safe place you’ll actually remember and have without having to remember). You can also use social media or text messages to let others know you are safe.
• Establish a safe location. Find a safe room or shelter where you can take cover during a tornado. The best place is a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows, doors, and outside walls. Avoid mobile homes, trailers, RVs, or vehicles as they are not safe in high winds. If you live in a mobile home, plan ahead by finding a nearby building where you can shelter.
• Invest in an emergency kit. Prepare a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit with essential supplies such as food, water, medicine, flashlights, batteries, first aid items, hygiene products, and important documents. Keep your kits in a place where you can easily grab them if you need to evacuate or shelter in place.
• Teach others basic first aid. Learn how to treat minor injuries and wounds that may occur during a tornado. You can also take a CPR or first aid course online or in person. Having these skills can help you save lives in an emergency.
• Stock up on emergency supplies, including food and water. Have enough food and water for at least three days for each person and pet in your household. Choose non-perishable foods that don’t need cooking or refrigeration, such as canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, crackers, and granola bars. Store water in clean containers or bottles and have at least one gallon per person per day. The food and water should be stored in the same type of place where you’ll take shelter. It will not do you much good if it gets blown away.
• Protect your supplies. Keep your food and water in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Check the expiration dates of your food items and replace them as needed. One thing we do, for example, is always have an extra peanut butter on hand. Any time we finish one, we use the one from our emergency supply and buy a replacement for the emergency supply. That way the emergency supply is always fresh. You can use plastic bags or containers to seal your supplies from moisture or pests.
• Include hygiene and sanitation items. Have enough toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, wipes, garbage bags, and feminine products for your personal needs. You can also use bleach or chlorine tablets to disinfect water or surfaces.

The best way to stay safe is to be informed and prepared.