After a Tornado

First you need to help any injured people and give first aid. Don’t try to move a seriously injured person unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Listen to your battery operated radio for the latest emergency information. If you are not home, stay out of damaged buildings and don’t return home until authorities say its O.K. Only use the telephone for emergency calls. If you are at home, clean up any toxic spills such as gasoline, bleach or medicine. Check for gas leaks and if you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, open the windows, leave the house and turn off the main valve outside. Check for broken or frayed wires and turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker if you find damage. Check for sewage and water line damage by inspecting the sewage line pipes. If you find damage, do not use the toilet, contact the water company and the plumber. Take pictures of the inside and outside of your home for insurance purposes. You will be glad to have your tornado kits and food storage since it may be days till you can get to the store and prices will be high. If your home is safe and not too damaged, set up a station to have your tornado kit supplies, cooking supplies, first aid things and food storage.

• First help injured people, keep your first aid kit handy.
• Listen to battery operated radio for latest information.
• Check home for hazards.
• Take pictures of damage.