Thursday, May 17, 2018

Regional Executive Corner with Joel R. Sullivan - May 2018

Did you know that tornado season is still upon us?  According to a study by the National Weather Service,  March, April, and May are peak months for tornadoes in Tennessee.  Nearly two-thirds of Middle Tennessee's tornadoes have occurred during these three months. If you haven’t already, now is the time to build a kit and make a plan so that you are prepared in case a tornado strikes.

Here are some Red Cross tips to keep you safe this tornado season:
  • ·         Identify a safe place in your home where household members and pets will gather during a tornado: a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.
  • ·         In a high-rise building, pick a hallway in the center of the building. You may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor.
  • ·         In a mobile home, choose a safe place in a nearby sturdy building. If your mobile home park has a designated shelter, make it your safe place. No mobile home, however it is configured, is safe in a tornado.


Know the Difference!

Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans, and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. Acting early helps to save lives!

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Tornado warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Go immediately underground to a basement, storm cellar or an interior room (closet, hallway or bathroom).  Be sure to take your communication devices with you to your safe place if possible and readily available.

If you have a smartphone, download the free Red Cross Emergency app for the latest weather alerts and information on Red Cross shelters.  There are great educational tools and checklists there as well. 

Be sure to share this information with family and friends so they too are prepared!


Joel

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