Tornado Safety Checklist: Are You Prepared?

Having a tornado safety checklist can help you be better prepared when there's little time to react. A tornado can strike swiftly, but a few steps ahead of time can help provide adequate security against damage and harm.

Here are eight things to do or have on a tornado safety checklist:

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1. Have a radio that can be tuned to the local station or a NOAA weather radio. Battery powered is best in case the electricity goes out.

2. Select a safe room in the home. A safe room is usually a basement, storm cellar, or a room without windows on the lowest floor of the house if possible. The safe room should be a comfortable gathering place for family members and pets.

3. If you don't have adequate space for a safe room or live in a mobile home, predetermine a secure area, such as a neighbor’s home or a nearby shelter, that your family can get to quickly if a tornado threatens. Keep pets on a leash or in a carrier when you have to leave.

4. Practice drills help in case of a tornado so everyone in the household knows what to do to protect themselves.

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5. Have shoes, a helmet, or other protective gear handy. Even a bike helmet can protect people from head injuries, says The Weather Channel. Damage from a tornado might cause debris that includes nails and glass, so shoes (preferably with a good sole) should be worn during and after a strike.

6. Secure lawn furniture or other items in the yard. If time permits, remove trash cans, hanging plants, or anything that could be thrown by the violent storm.

7. Learn about the warning system in the community as part of a tornado safety checklist. Many communities prone to tornadoes have sirens to warn residents.

8. Watch for possible signs of a tornado. These might include dark, greenish clouds or wall clouds at the base of a thunderstorm, the American Red Cross notes. Funnel clouds, a cloud with debris, large hail, or a roaring noise are also signs of a tornado.

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