Knowing what to do and where to go when threatened by a tornado is probably the last thing most people in the Richmond and Henrico area would think about. But that knowledge could save your life.
Last year Virginia recorded 51 tornados, the second highest number on record. To encourage tornado awareness, Gov. Bob McDonnell has declared Tuesday, March 20 as Tornado Preparedness Day in the Commonwealth.
Everyone should take this day seriously and talk with your family and loved ones about emergency preparedness. Often, we think of bad things as always happening to the other fellow, and not to us.
On March 20, businesses, schools, families and individuals are encouraged to practice taking cover from tornados by participating in the Statewide Tornado Drill set for 9:45 a.m.
At that time, the National Weather Service will broadcast a test tornado warning that will trigger an alert and broadcast a message on the NOAA Weather Radio.
This message will be picked up by TV and radio broadcasters, simulating a tornado warning that listeners would hear. Remember, if this were a real warning, you would have to move quickly.
What to do on hearing a tornado warning
- Quickly move to a safe area of the building. Use a basement, cellar, bathroom or hallway, staying away from windows.
- Sit or lay flat on the ground or floor, covering your head with your arms.
During an actual tornado warning, you would want to have a portable radio to listen to updates. And if you were caught outside, it would be necessary to find a ditch or other depression in the ground in order to lay flat for protection.
The drill is being held by the Virginia Dept. of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service. Please mark your calendar so you won't forget this important date.
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