HIGHLANDS COUNTY
DIVISION OF
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
6850 West George
Blvd.
Sebring, FL 33875
863-385-1112
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TORNADOES
Prepare 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.
- Tornado
WATCHES and WARNINGS are issued by county or parish.
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.