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Severe Weather Safety Tips
Tornado Safety
Tornadoes can strike with little warning. Stay alert to these key terms:
- Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for tornadoes—stay informed.
- Tornado Warning: A tornado has been spotted—take shelter immediately.
If a Tornado Warning is Issued:
- At Home: Go to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.
- In a Car: Exit the vehicle and find shelter in a sturdy building.
- In a Public Building: Move to a designated shelter or an interior hallway on the lowest level.
- Outdoors: Lie flat in a ditch or depression and protect your head. Avoid overpasses.
- Pets: Bring them indoors for safety.
For more tornado safety tips, visit Weather.com.
Flood Safety
Flooding can occur gradually or suddenly. Stay aware of these terms:
- Flood Watch: Possible flooding—stay informed.
- Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or imminent—take action.
- Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible—be prepared to seek higher ground.
- Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring—move to higher ground immediately.
Flood Preparedness:
- Know evacuation routes and high-ground locations.
- Follow authority instructions and return home only when it’s safe.
- Avoid streams and low-lying areas prone to sudden flooding.
- Inside: Unplug electronics and avoid corded phones during storms.
- Outside: Stay away from metal fences, pipes, and machinery.
- Pets: Bring them inside before a storm hits.
For more flood safety tips, visit Weather.com.
Tropical Storm & Hurricane Safety
Even inland areas like College Park can experience severe storms, flooding, and high winds from tropical systems.
Key Terms:
- Hurricane Watch: A hurricane is possible—stay informed.
- Hurricane Warning: A hurricane is expected within 24 hours—take action immediately.
Preparedness Actions:
- Stay updated with weather reports.
- Have a portable radio and flashlight with fresh batteries.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects.
- Store drinking water and plan a flood-free evacuation route.
- Bring pets indoors.
- If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately with your emergency kit.
Emergency Preparedness Kit:
Prepare a kit with at least 3 days' worth of supplies, including:
- Water & non-perishable food
- Flashlight & extra batteries
- Battery-operated radio
- First aid kit & prescription medications
- Blankets & hygiene supplies
- Personal items (books, games, toys)
For more hurricane safety tips, visit NOAA.gov.
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