Staying Safe in Your Apartment During a Tornado Watch

As the saying goes, April showers bring May flowers – but they can also bring an increase in tornado activity. With two tornado watches already this month, it’s clear that the spring season can bring both beauty and severe weather. It’s important to stay alert and prepared for severe weather during this time. If you live in an apartment and there is a tornado watch in effect, it’s crucial to take precautions to stay safe.

Apartment Tornado Watch Safety Tips

If severe weather hits, follow these tips to stay safe during a tornado watch in an apartment:

Close all windows and doors to your apartment to help prevent debris from entering your home.
Remove any furniture or objects from your patio or balcony to prevent them from being blown away and causing damage or injury.
Seek shelter. Look for a room in your apartment that has no windows or exterior walls, such as a closet or bathroom. If possible, choose a room on the lowest level of the building. Remember to take your pets with you!
Stay away from windows and glass doors as they can shatter during high winds.
Crouch down and cover your head with your hands to protect yourself from flying debris.
Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather updates and alerts, and stay tuned to local news for further instructions.
Prepare an emergency kit: Make sure you have a kit with essential items such as water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and flashlights.
Make sure to charge your phone and keep it with you at all times. In case of a power outage, a charged phone can be a lifesaver.
Create an emergency plan: Discuss a plan of action with your family or roommates, so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Make sure you have a designated meeting spot where everyone can gather after the storm has passed if you happen to get separated.

Where To Go In a Top-Floor Apartment During a Tornado

To ensure your safety when a tornado strikes, make your way to the lowest level of the building. But what if you find yourself in a top-floor apartment? Fear not – the most secure place to be in such a situation is typically an interior room without windows, such as a closet or bathroom. It’s also a good idea to bring along cushions to protect yourself in case of flying debris.