Tornadoes are one of the natures most violent storms and can cause death, injury, and destruction within seconds. About 1,200 tornadoes hit the United States every year, and they can strike in any season and in every state.

September is National Preparedness Month and is now the time to make sure you have the tools needed to best protect you, your loved ones and employees should a tornado cross your path.

To begin, it’s important to first build an emergency kit and make a communication plan. Having the right supplies you need and a plan to connect with family members are the first steps toward surviving a tornado, as well as any other disaster.

Next, you need to have a goal for your protection. Most injuries and fatalities from tornadoes are caused by being struck or cut by falling or wind-borne debris. When a tornado threatens, your goal is to go to the safest place for protection before the tornado hits and take additional measures for personal cover.

The best protection is provided by a structure built to the FEMA safe room standards. These structures provide near-absolute protection. The next best option is finding a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level of the building you are in. A floor below ground is best. In these types of locations, use what is available to cover yourself, such as a coat or blanket.

With your protection plan in place, you can now focus on the warning signs of a tornado. This will give you the critical time needed to get protected. Pay attention to weather reports and sign up for text alerts and smartphone apps that provide weather warnings.

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