In recognition of Tornado Preparedness Day set for March 13 throughout the Commonwealth, the Stafford Department of Fire and Rescue urges all citizens to learn about tornadoes and how to keep their families safe in the event one of these dangerous storms touches down.  

“Tornadoes can strike with little warning during the day or at night,” said Gerald Jaskulski, Chief of the Fire and Rescue Department’s Emergency Management Division. “Many tornadoes, especially in Virginia, are wrapped in heavy precipitation and can’t be seen. The best defense against these powerful and unpredictable storms is having an action plan in place and a tornado safety kit ready.”

Stafford’s Fire and Rescue Department, in conjunction with the American Red Cross and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, offer the following suggestions to prepare for severe weather:

·        Pick a place where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be in your basement, center hallway, bathroom or closet on the lowest floor. Use a heavy blanket or sleeping bag for protection from flying debris.

·        Assemble a first-aid kit with basic supplies, including prescription medication.

·        Stock a battery-powered radio, flashlights and extra batteries, sturdy shoes, work gloves and duct tape.

·        Store enough canned food (and a manual can opener) and bottled water to last for at least three days in a secure container.

·        Listen to local radio and television stations for updates about storm watches and warnings. Learn the names of the counties, cities and towns near your community to help you track the path of the tornado.

·        Seal important documents such as insurance papers and credit cards in waterproof bags and keep them with you for the duration of the storm.

·        Prepare a list of written instructions on how to turn off your home’s utilities if authorities instruct you to do so.

·        Keep a list of important phone numbers for the local department of emergency services, physicians, family and friends.

Authorities issue a tornado watch when conditions are favorable for the formation of a tornado. Be prepared to take cover if necessary. A tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted or indicated on radar. Warnings are given for specific localities, and include the tornado’s location, direction and speed. When a warning is issued, you should go quickly to the designated safe room in your home or office building. In malls, gymnasiums and most public buildings, take shelter in restrooms, which are usually made of concrete block.

If you are in your vehicle or caught outdoors, seek shelter inside a sturdy building. A culvert or ditch can provide protection if there is no structure nearby – lie down flat and cover your head with your hands. Highway overpasses and bridges do not offer protection from flying debris. Never remain in a mobile home during a tornado. Mobile homes are extremely unsafe during tornadoes or severe storms.

When the tornado passes, watch out for fallen power lines and stay away from damaged areas. Listen to local radio stations for updates and instructions from authorities. Inspect your home for damage using a flashlight rather than candles, which can cause fires or ignite gas.

For more information about preparing for tornadoes or any type of violent weather, visit the Fire and Rescue Department in the Rowser Building at 1739 Jefferson Davis Highway, or call (540) 658-7200. Information is also available on the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Web site at http://www.vdes.state.va.us/.

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