The recent onslaught of tornadoes in Tennessee and other states have demonstrated the need to be prepared for such an emergency. Tornadoes are difficult to predict. They can happen without giving you or your family much notice to prepare. This is the type of emergency where time is essential. You will want to know exactly what to do, and how to do it.
The first step is to decide on what type of shelter you will take if there is a tornado. You will want to be in a sturdy structure on the lowest level or below ground. Your shelter should have something to wrap yourself and your family in to protect yourself from flying debris.
The next thing you need to do is to have a tornado drill. You should do this until every member of your family knows exactly where to go and what to bring with them. You want to have your family members reach the shelter as soon as possible. You may set a two-minute goal and once they reach it give them a reward.
Once a tornado warning has been issued you will need to head to your shelter. You should make your shelter as comfortable as possible. Your children may be anxious and worried. You should try to make the visits to your shelter as upbeat as possible, so that they will not worry too much.
You can learn more tips about tornadoes by visiting the American Red Cross or by visiting this site about tornadoes. If you live in Tornado Ally (which is comprised by mid-western states), then you should have a drill a little bit before Tornado season begins. Even if you live in an area where tornadoes are uncommon you should teach your children about what to do during a tornado. You should also teach your family what to do if there is a tornado and they are away from home.
After a tornado you should be careful about where you go. Power lines may be down, and debris can make it unsafe to get around. You should have a meeting point and a contact person for your family members in case you are all not at home. This will help when you are trying to make sure that each person is okay. If you are prepared you will better be able to help your family face tornadoes.