Be Prepared...

After the tragedy in Oklahoma, it only seems fitting to help get the word out in case a tornado does decide to hit your home. Thanks to wikihow I found some really awesome tips! Create an emergency kit.[4] This should include water and food for at least 72 hours. Having a means of communication or information (radio, satellite phone, etc.)is also important to include. Any first aid supplies, clothes and toiletries that you may need should be stored along with flashlights, batteries, etc. For more ideas, see: http://www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit) Build or designate a safe room.[1] Rooms that can typically be used include basements, garages, interior rooms on the first floor, etc. The room should have no windows, be anchored to the ground to avoid uplift, and be strong enough to withstand any flying debris it may come in contact with. Be aware that water may accompany the storm so be cautious when using below ground rooms as they may collect water. Arrange and secure household items.[3] Arrange furniture so that it is away from windows, mirrors or glass. This could cause broken glass to fly during the tornado, creating a hazard. Make sure any items that may move during the storm are moved away from your family. Use eye bolts or l brackets to secure large furniture to the walls. A tornado watch indicates that conditions are right for tornado development and tornadoes are possible in your area. If you hear a tornado watch or a severe thunderstorm watch, you should pay special attention to weather conditions. A tornado warning indicates that a tornado has been seen in your area or that radar indicates the presence of a tornado. If a tornado warning is issued, you should seek appropriate shelter immediately. A tornado emergency means that a tornado warning has been issued and it is heading toward a densely populated area. Seek appropriate shelter immediately and listen for additional weather reports. A severe thunderstorm warning means that a severe thunderstorm has been spotted in your area, and you should take appropriate precautions and watch for tornadoes. Keep maps of your local area handy so that you can identify the location of a storm when it is reported on the radio. Keep an eye out for fast moving clouds, especially rotating cloud formations. Often tornadoes drop down vertically and lift straight back up, so you will not always observe them coming toward you. Learn about Skywarn. The National Weather Service and local emergency managers offer this training. Don't second guess your decision where to ride out the weather, once a storm is imminent, stay put, and don't take chances. Stay calm Never go outside during a tornado to witness or calculate the distance of the tornado from your current location. Doing this may put yourself or others in serious danger. Stay away from windows. Stay safe. Don't do anything stupid because you want a cool video or picture. http://www.wikihow.com/Prepare-for-a-Tornado