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Emergency Preparedness

Guide Book

THE TRUTH ABOUT TORNADOES

     They occur in many parts of Canada between the months of May and September.  They can cause tremendous destruction with wind speeds of up to 500 km/h or more.

     We're talking about tornadoes, and in an average year in Canada, 80 tornadoes cause two deaths and 20 injuries, and tens of millions of dollars in property damage.  Although we can't do anything to prevent a tornado, we can certainly be prepared!

It's Up To You!

     Despite advance warnings, some people are unprepared for a tornado.  Some did not hear the warning while others received the warning but did not believe a tornado would actually affect them.  It's up to you.

     You can prepare by having a plan in place long before the tornado hits.  You must make the decision to seek shelter before the storm arrives.  It could be the most important decision you will ever make.

Warning Signals That a Tornado May be Near

     A severe thunderstorm is the driving force behind a tornado.  Hot, humid weather, combined with a cold front, could be a sign that a tornado is brewing, and a funnel cloud hanging from a dark cloud may be visible before the tornado occurs.

     A tornado may be accompanied by lightning, high winds, and hail.  Stay tuned to your local TV and radio stations for updated storm information especially when weather conditions are right for generating a tornado.

     As well, it's important to know the difference between a tornado and a warning.

• Tornado Watch:  A tornado is possible in your area and you should be on alert.

• Tornado Warning:  A tornado has been sighted and could be coming to your area.

• If you are at home, go to the basement or take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.  Failing that, protect yourself by taking shelter under a heavy table or desk.  In all cases, stay away from windows and outside walls and doors.

• If you are at the office or in an apartment building, take shelter in an inner hallway or room, ideally in the basement or the ground floor.  Do not use the elevator and stay away from windows.  Avoid buildings such as gymnasiums, churches and auditoriums with free span roofs.  These roofs do not have support in the middle and may collapse if a tornado hits them.  If you are in one of these buildings take cover under a sturdy structure.

• Do not get caught in a car or mobile home.  More than 50 per cent of all deaths from tornados happens in mobile homes.  Take shelter elsewhere - such as a building with a strong foundation.  If no shelter is available, then lie down in a ditch away from the automobile or mobile home.

• If you are driving and spot a tornado is in the distance, try to get to a nearby shelter.  If the tornado is close by, get out of your car and take cover in a low-lying area.  If a tornado seems to be standing still then it is either traveling away from you or heading right for you.

• In all cases, get as close to the ground as possible, protect your head and watch out for flying debris.  Small objects such as sticks and straws can become lethal weapons when driven by a tornado's winds.

After the Event

     If your home or family is affected by the tornado, you should:

• Monitor local media reports for advise and to find out where assistance is available.

• Check for gas leaks in your home.  If you smell gas,

• Check for blown fuses and look for short circuits in your home wiring, and equipment - if a problem exists, call an electrician.

• Drive carefully and watch for debris, roads and dangling wires.

• Report any emergency situation to the local police or fire department.

• Notify your insurance agent or broker if your property is damaged.

• Check with your local government if you need counselling to help you cope with the emotional trauma associated with disasters.

Tornado Myths

     Contrary to popular belief:

• Areas near rivers, lakes, and mountains are not safe from tornadoes.

• The low pressure with a tornado does not cause buildings to 'explode' as the tornado passes overhead.

• Windows do not equalize the pressure and minimize damage.

• You're not safe if you're downstairs.