Are you Prepared in San Antonio?

3/15/2017 (Permalink)

Are You Ready for High Winds or Tornadoes in San Antonio?

Would you know how to protect yourself and others from destructive high winds of a tornado?

Know the Terms.

A tornado watch means that conditions exist for a tornado to develop. Prepare to move to shelter in the lowest level of a sturdy building. Listen to a local television or radio station for up-to-date weather information, including the development of tornado warnings.

A tornado warning means a tornado or funnel cloud has been spotted or is about to happen in or near your area. Take immediate action to seek safe shelter. Continue to listen to local television or radio station for up-to-date weather information. Stay sheltered until the tornado warning has expired for your area.

Prepare a home tornado plan. Pick an uncluttered place in your home that is on the lowest level with no windows. The safest place is in the basement under a staircase. In the event of a tornado warning in your area, your family should know where to go in order to stay safe. If you are outside or in a mobile home, find immediate shelter in a nearby sturdy building.

Make a ready kit. Include a flashlight, portable radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, bottled water, nonperishable food, manual can opener, blankets or sleeping bags, and protective clothing.

Protect your home against high winds. Remove diseased or damaged limbs from trees. Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans and anything else that could become a missile-like object if picked up by strong winds of a tornado.

Consult with professionals about a "safe room". If you are building a new home or remodeling, ask about having a structurally reinforced space constructed for your family’s protection during a tornado or high winds.