Tornado Safety

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Tornado destruction

Tornadoes are not all that common in this part of the state, but they do exist. When a tornado strikes in Wyoming, it is usually in an open space like a field. However, they have touched down in towns before. In the unlikely event of a tornado occurrence near you, here is what to do if you are in a mobile home versus a traditional home:

Traditional Home:

• Have a radio for weather alerts and updates nearby, and make sure you have fresh batteries on hand.

• Get to the lowest level of your home, such as a basement or storm cellar. If you don't have a basement, go to an inner hallway or a closet, or the bathtub in a bathroom.

• Stay away from all windows and glass doorways.

• Cover your head and eyes with a blanket or jacket to protect against flying debris and broken glass.

• Use stairs only. Do not use an elevator because the power may fail, leaving you trapped inside.

• Keep pets on a leash or in a crate close by.

• Before going outside, be certain the storm has passed.

• Stay in the building you are in. Attempting to out run a tornado to get to a different location is dangerous.

Mobile home:

• Mobile homes are not safe during a tornado. You need to evacuate. Even mobile homes equipped with tie-down systems cannot withstand the force of a tornado's winds.

• Listen to all local watches and warnings, and take them seriously. If need to, try to get into the basement of a near by home or building.

• If no shelter is immediately available, find the lowest-lying area near you and lie flat down in it, covering your head with your hands. Do NOT try to outrun the tornado.