Skip to Main ContentSkip to Section navigationSkip to Main NavigationSkip to Search
American Red Cross - Kansas City Chapter
Search: 
Go   |  Contact Us  |  Site Map  |  Home
About UsNewsroomPublicationsCommunity ResourcesRed Cross StoreCareer OpportunitiesIn the News
Program and Services
Volunteer
Financial Donations
Give Blood
Safety Tips
Training Classes
Red Cross in the Classroom
Print this page E-mail someone else about this class  

Safety Tips
Tornado Safety

tornadoPrepare a Home Tornado Plan
  • Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be your basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered.
  • If you are in a high-rise building, you may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit Containing:
  • First aid kit and essential medications.
  • Canned food and can opener.
  • At least three gallons of water per person.
  • Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags.
  • Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
  • Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
  • Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)


Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings
  • Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.
  • Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means:
    • A tornado WATCH means a tornado is possible in your area.
    • A tornado WARNING means a tornado has been sighted and may be headed for your area. Go to safety immediately.



    When a Tornado WATCH Is Issued...
    • Listen to local radio and TV stations for further updates.
    • Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you. Many people say it sounds like a freight train.


    When a Tornado WARNING Is Issued...
    • If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your area.
    • If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a nearby sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area.
    • If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (as above).


    After the Tornado Passes...
    • Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area.
    • Listen to the radio for information and instructions.
    • Use a flashlight to inspect your home for damage.
    • Do not use candles at any time.


    Email the Red Cross for more information about tornado safety at info@kcredcross.org.
Back to Safety Tips
American Red Cross
Greater Kansas City Chapter
211 W. Armour Blvd.
Kansas City, MO 64111 USA		         Phone 816-931-8400
Fax 816-531-7306		 United Way Member Agency

© 2003-2008 The American Red Cross. All Rights Reserved.
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy