10 Tornado Safety Tips

Tornadoes are unpredictable and can instantly put your safety and property at risk. Understanding and implementing tornado safety precautions before, during, and after these potentially devastating natural disasters can minimize injury, protect lives, and your property.

Whether at home, work or traveling, these tornado safety tips will help you stay prepared and act decisively when every second counts.

Tip 1: Monitor Tornado Warnings

Staying informed is your first line of defense during a tornado. This means tuning into local weather news and reports, staying vigilant during a tornado watch and immediately seeking shelter when a warning is issued. 

Remember, too, that there’s a difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning:

• Tornado Watch: This means weather conditions are favorable for tornado formation. Consider it a heads-up to prepare.

• Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or detected by radar. Take immediate shelter and follow emergency protocols.

You should also use multiple tools to stay updated. Smartphone apps, NOAA weather radios and local TV or radio broadcasts deliver real-time alerts. 

For businesses, designate a person to monitor updates and quickly share information with employees and customers. Early awareness provides time to act and reduces panic in high-stress situations.

Tip 2: Seek Low Ground

Low ground is the safest place to be during a tornado. Basements, safe rooms, and storm cellars offer the best protection, but if your home or business doesn’t have one, head to the lowest floor and shelter in a small, windowless interior room, such as a bathroom, closet, or hallway.

For those in mobile homes or vehicles, find the nearest sturdy building immediately. Mobile homes and cars are vulnerable to high winds and debris and can easily be flipped or tossed. 

Identify nearby community storm shelters ahead of time and make them part of your tornado safety emergency plan. Many communities open these shelters to the public during severe weather.

Tip 3: Stay Away From Windows

Windows are a significant hazard during tornadoes, as shattering glass can cause serious injuries. When seeking shelter, prioritize moving to a windowless area and, if time permits, close curtains or blinds to lessen the impact of flying glass.

You should also consider installing storm shutters in advance, as they can protect your windows and the people inside during severe weather. 

For businesses with large glass storefronts or office buildings, establish safe zones away from exterior walls and windows where employees and customers can gather during a tornado warning.

Tip 4: Protect Yourself With the Right Position

Flying debris is one of the leading causes of tornado-related injuries. To protect yourself, crouch low, face down, and cover your head and neck with your hands. Use whatever you can to shield yourself, such as thick blankets, pillows, or a mattress. 

If you’re in a colder region or during winter storms, coats, or jackets can double as insulation and protective padding.

Teach children, household members, and staff about this position during tornado drills. Familiarity with these tornado safety precautions ensures everyone knows what to do during an emergency. 

Tip 5: Take Shelter Under Sturdy Furniture

Heavy furniture like tables, desks, or workbenches can provide extra protection by creating a small safety pocket if the ceiling collapses. Avoid positioning yourself beside large, heavy items such as bookshelves or appliances that could fall over. 

This tornado safety tip is especially useful for schools, offices, or workplaces without basements or storm cellars. Employers should place sturdy furniture in designated safe zones and instruct staff on how to use it effectively.

Tip 6: Put on Safety Gear

Safety gear can be one of the most life-saving tornado safety precautions. Sturdy shoes protect against sharp debris, such as broken glass or nails, while helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries caused by falling objects. Adding work gloves and safety goggles to your emergency kit is also valuable for additional protection.

For businesses, keeping a stock of safety equipment, including helmets and first-aid supplies, ensures everyone is better protected during severe weather. 

Tip 7: Avoid Driving Into Tornadoes

Trying to outrun a tornado in a car is dangerous and often impossible. Tornadoes change direction or speed unpredictably, and traffic congestion may leave you trapped in their path.

If you’re already in your car and spot a tornado, drive to the nearest sturdy shelter if it’s safe to do so. Otherwise, abandon your vehicle and find the lowest possible ground, such as a ditch. Lie flat and cover your head to shield yourself from flying debris.

For businesses with fleet vehicles or delivery drivers, establish clear safety protocols for severe weather to protect drivers and goods in transit.

Tip 8: Secure Your Pets

Your pets rely on you for safety during emergencies. Include them in your tornado safety plan by keeping leashes, carriers, or crates ready. Ensure their collars have updated identification tags in case they get separated.

For larger pets like dogs, practice tornado drills to help them adjust to quickly moving to your safe area. In workplaces or public spaces that allow pets, designate specific areas for their safety and include pet supplies in your emergency kit.

Tip 9: Practice Tornado Drills

Tornado drills reduce confusion during emergencies by ensuring everyone knows what to do and where to go. Regularly practice these drills with your family, staff, or tenants, focusing on reaching the safest locations in your building as quickly as possible.

For mobile home residents, drills should include the route to your nearest community storm shelter. Business owners should work with employees to create a clear evacuation and communication plan that accounts for customers and clients.

Tip 10: Assemble Emergency Kits

Emergency kits save time and provide critical resources during tornadoes. Be sure to prepare these two types of kits: 

• Go-Kit: Pack enough supplies for three days, including food, water, medication, and chargers for essential devices. Add a flashlight, extra batteries, and a whistle to signal for help if needed. 

• Stay-at-Home Kit: Stock at least two weeks of supplies for longer emergencies. Include personal records, medical information, and backup power sources for necessary equipment like CPAP machines or wheelchairs. 

Tailor your kits to the needs of your household or business, including supplies for children, elderly individuals, or pets. Companies should ensure first-aid kits, bottled water, and flashlights are readily available in safe areas.

Invest in a Safe Room for the Ultimate Typhoon Protection

Even after following the tornado safety tips above, a safe room is one of the best protections against tornadoes. Lone Star Safe Rooms offers customizable, FEMA-compliant shelters that fit seamlessly under stairs, garages, or other convenient locations.

Backed by a lifetime warranty, our reliable installation team ensures that your family, employees, and property are protected for years to come.

Learn more about our pricing or contact Lone Star Safe Rooms today for more tornado safety tips.