When the weather conditions become favorable for tornadoes to form. What the government does is issue a tornado watch. This period offers you the opportunity to prepare and make plans for your safety. During the tornado watch in Greenville, SC there are several things for you to note. Preparation during the watch is most important for aging adults. Below are some of the things you need to do during a tornado watch:
Seek Shelter
This should be an essential part of your preparation, identify a shelter before the tornado occurs. There are many precautions to take regarding shelter during a tornado. Generally, when you receive a tornado warning, these are things you should do concerning shelter:
- If you are outside, the best thing is to go inside.
- If you are home head to the basement or a room that has no windows like a closet, or hallway. While you are in these places, it is advisable that you cover your head and neck using your arms. Stay under a table and put a blanket on yourself.
- Stay away from mobile homes and big, empty rooms like auditoriums, and cafeterias because their risk of collapse is higher.
If you can’t keep up with these rules, you can move to a retirement community. They will offer necessary safety precautions when tornado occurs.
Avoid Windows
Opened windows will give way for damaging winds to enter your house. Whether the windows are opened or not, the best thing is to stay away from them. Just find a safe place with no windows. This is because flying debris can damage window glasses.
You don’t have to worry about the change in air pressure against the old belief that tornadoes explode. The main damage to your structure is from flying debris slamming into the building.
In the Absence of a Building, Lie Down Flat
In a situation where there is no building, you can protect your head with your arms and hands. The tornado comes with debris flying around at a high speed and will cause injury if it hits you. Stay away from overpasses and bridges as they can be destroyed by flying debris. Your best bet is to stay low in areas where debris and wind will be above you.
Tornadoes are a result of thunderstorms and therefore can cause a lot of rain. So, if you notice a flood coming towards you, change your position.
Avoid Driving
Another thing to avoid during a tornado watch is driving. It is not safe to be in your car when a tornado warning has been issued. The debris can pick up the car and fling it. Also, it is not a smart option to try to outrun a tornado. Even when the tornado has not occurred, as an aging adult avoid driving. If you will need to go out, you can allow transportation service in retirement communities to handle the driving.
The best option is to abandon your vehicle to seek shelter in low areas like a ditch. Beware of floods while doing and ensure your head is covered. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, you are advised to cover your head with your arms and your body with a coat.
Stay Updated
Another important thing during a tornado watch is staying updated. This can become difficult as a result of light out, therefore prepare ahead by getting a battery-powered device. You can get a NOAA weather radio, television, or a regular radio, just ensure it is powered by a battery. You will be able to access emergency information on these devices in case the electricity goes out.
