Tornadoes are the most common natural disaster in Little Rock, keep your family safe by following these tips.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 30 minutes
Here's How:
- Involve your family in preparation.
- If you live in Arkansas, make sure your home insurance covers tornado damage.
- Prepare for a tornado and run tornado drills before severe weather. This will lessen the chance of confusion if a tornado hits.
- Pick the lowest place in your house to take cover before a tornado. Basements are great, but if you don't have a basement, choose an interior doorway or hallway.
- Cover your head to protect it from flying debris. Use a mattress or a piece of sturdy furniture.
- Stay away from windows and other glass (aquariums, mirrors, etc.).
- Keep a wrench near the gas meter and be sure you know how to turn the gas off.
- Make a supply box including a battery operated weather band radio, candles, flashlights, blankets, water and batteries.
- Stay inside! If you are in a car, pull to the side of the road and get out of the car (get in a ditch if possible). You cannot out run a tornado.
- Television and radio (weather band) are the best places to listen for up to date information.
Tips:
- Don't wait until you hear the sirens to take cover. Many times, the sirens don't ring until it's too late.
- If you live in a mobile home leave it and go somewhere else when there is a tornado watch.
- It is a myth that open windows will lessen the effects of a tornado. It is best to keep them closed.
