FEMA Urges Awareness, Preparation As Keys To Surviving Tornado
Release Date: February 27, 2009
Release Number: 1822-003
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Advance planning and quick response is the key to saving
lives when confronted with tornadoes.
Severe storms that often spawn tornadoes can approach quickly, and there may be
only a short time to make a life-or-death decision.
March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month. The Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) encourages
Missourians to prepare ahead for the worst.
"We remind all Missouri residents that each household needs to have a disaster
preparedness plan," said FEMA's Tom Hall, federal coordinating officer for
disaster operations in Missouri. "Planning and practicing specifically how and
where you will take shelter in the event a tornado could be a matter of
survival."
Tornadoes are nature's most violent storms. They can appear suddenly without
warning and can be invisible until dust and debris are picked up or a funnel
cloud appears.
Heed Severe Weather Warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Knowing
what to look for and where to seek shelter could make a difference.
Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. It's not
uncommon to see clear, sunlit skies behind a tornado.
Take shelter in a building with a strong foundation if a tornado approaches
while you are away from home. If in a car and shelter is not available, lie in
a ditch or low-lying area.
Mobile homes are vulnerable to overturn if precautions are not taken to tie
down the unit.
Seek shelter in a room on a lower floor with no windows as the safe-haven.
Interior restrooms also make good shelters.
Severe Weather Preparedness Month is a good time to come up with or revisit
plans to respond and recover during times of disaster. There are some basic
items individuals and families will need to gather when developing disaster
preparedness plans. Assemble an emergency kit that should include:
Flashlight and extra batteries
Portable, battery operated radio
First aid kit
Nonperishable foods, water supply
Manual can opener
Bedding, pillows
Sturdy shoes, change of clothes
For more information on tornadoes, preparing shelters and emergency kits, visit
the FEMA web site at www.fema.gov, click on Quick Links to access the FEMA
Library.
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