Emergency Information - Severe Weather Tips

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

BEFORE

• A thunderstorm watch means that weather conditions are favorable for the formation of a thunderstorm
• Stay alert for changing weather conditions and be prepared to take action
• If available, listen to the TV or radio for details

BEGINNING OR DURING

• Move inside a building
• Stay away from windows
• Stay calm
• Do not use a landline telephone
• If available, listen to a radio or TV for updates

AFTER

• Listen for the "all clear" signal that the threat is over.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

BEFORE

• A severe thunderstorm can have severe lightning and damaging hail
• Stay alert for changing weather conditions and be prepared to take action
• If available, listen to the TV or radio for details

BEGINNING OR DURING

• Move inside a building
• Do not go outside until the warning has expired
• Stay away from windows
• Stay calm
• Do not use a landline telephone
• If available, listen to a radio or TV for updates

AFTER

Tornado Watch

BEFORE

• A tornado watch means that weather conditions are favorable for the formation of a tornado
• Stay alert for changing weather conditions and be prepared to take action
• If available, listen to the TV or radio for details

BEGINNING OR DURING

• Move inside a building
• Stay away from windows
• Stay calm
• Do not use the telephone
• If available, listen to a radio or TV for updates

AFTER

• Listen for the "all clear" signal that the threat is over.

Tornado Warning

BEFORE

• During the spring season, tornado sirens are tested each Wednesday at noon. The tests last for thirty seconds. In the event that the siren sounds on a Wednesday morning for longer than thirty seconds, you should initiate tornado protection procedures.
• A tornado warning means that a tornado has actually been sighted by spotters or indicated on radar and is occurring or imminent in the warning area.
• Sirens will be activated if a tornado has actually been sighted in surrounding area.
• When given instructions to go to a designated tornado safety area, clear the classrooms, and direct individuals to a shelter area.
• Keep hallways clear by standing against the wall. When a tornado approaches, all individuals should assume kneeling position facing the wall with heads bent down.
• Building personnel should listen for the emergency siren. Radios should be monitored in administrative offices.
• Laboratories should be secured. Shut off gas burners or other laboratory equipment which could cause additional health and safety concerns.
• Have portable radio and flashlight and other emergency supplies.

BEGINNING OR DURING

• When given instructions to go to a designated tornado safety area, clear the classrooms, and direct individuals to a shelter area.
• Consider an immediate plan of action.
• Keep hallways clear by standing against the wall. When a tornado approaches, all individuals should assume kneeling position facing the wall with heads bent down.
• The following areas should be considered “off limits” during a tornado evacuation:
  Near outside doors, Any location on the upper floors of buildings, Any outside area, Near windows
• Stay calm.
• Stay in the designated area in the building.
• Do not leave the shelter area until the “all clear” has been given.

AFTER

• If buildings are damaged, stay out of the disaster area.
• Do NOT use telephones except in life-threatening emergencies.
• Listen for the "all clear" signal that the threat is over.