(HealthDayNews) -- While nothing can be done to prevent tornadoes, having a Tornado Emergency Plan can reduce your risk of injury.
Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- Sketch a floor plan of your home, or walk with family members through each room and discuss where and how to seek shelter.
- Show a second way to exit from each room or area. If you need special equipment, such as a rope ladder, mark where it is located.
- Make sure everyone understands the siren warning system, if your area has one.
- Mark where your first-aid kit and fire extinguishers are located.
- Mark where the utility switches or valves are located so they can be turned off in an emergency.
- Teach your family how to administer basic first aid, how to use a fire extinguisher, and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity.
- Learn the emergency dismissal policy for your child's school.
- Be sure to conduct drills and ask questions to make sure your family remembers information on tornado safety, particularly how to recognize hazardous weather conditions and how to take shelter.
