Weathering my worst fear
April 25th, 2008, 3:25 pm · Post a Comment · posted by lgriffith
Might as well get it out in the open — my worst fear is a tornado.
My dad used to tell me it was pretty irrational to be as scared as I was (granted a normal level of fear is commanded by any type of natural disaster), because I had never been in one and didn’t really know a lot about them other than what I saw in “Twister,” with actress Helen Hunt and actor Bill Paxton.
“Twister,” by the way, is one of the scariest movies ever made, in my opinon. Especially that part where the girl’s father was trying to hold the door to the storm cellar closed and the tornado sucked him right out… Ugh! **Shudders to think **
I don’t know what it is about them. Maybe a part of me thinks that a tornado will come in here and sweep away my loved ones and everything that is important to me.
The truth is, even though I’ve never been through one, tornadoes can ruin and take lives — especially if people are not prepared. Thankfully, an early warning system and some information can help make you and a little bit safer.
The folloring information was taken from a press release from the University of Illinois Extension in Macoupin County, most attributed to Duane Friend, University of Illinois Extension natural resources educator:
DID YOU KNOW?
*Most tornadoes are relatively weak in intensity, but wind speeds can range from 70 to almost 300 miles per hour.
*Improved tracking systems such as Doppler radar and volunteer spotters have decreased the number of injuries and deaths in Illinois, but that doesn’t mean we are totally protected.
*Preparing a tornado plan, being aware of watches and warnings and constructing or strengthening buildings against wind damage prevents us from being caught in a dangerous situation.
IN THE EVENT OF A TORNADO
*Everyone living in the home should know where to gather if a tornado is approaching. This can be a basement, center hallway, bathroom or closet on the lowest floor, away from windows.
*Know the difference between “watch” and “warning.” A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado formation. A tornado warning means a tornado has actually been sighted, or that radar is showing an area with intense circulating winds.
*When severe weather is approaching, listen to the radio or watch for weather updates on TV. If a watch is announced, continue to listen for further updates. Be alert for changing weather conditions. Watches and warnings are issued for individual counties.
*If you are at home and a tornado warning is announced, go to the designated gathering spot. If you are outside and see a tornado approaching, try to get to a low-lying area, away from power lines or other potential hazards.
*After a tornado passes, do not venture into damaged areas where fallen power lines may be present. Continue to listen to the radio for information and instructions.
*Residents in mobile homes are at greater risk. Statistics have shown that occupants in these structures should seek alternate shelter when a tornado is approaching. The National Weather Service and the American Red Cross recommend residents leave the mobile home and seek shelter in a low-lying area, if no sturdy building or structure is available.
*Many homes can be reinforced or built to lessen the impact of high winds. Using metal connectors for studs, rafters, joists and trusses will greatly strengthen homes. There are many types of prefabricated connectors available. The easiest time to install reinforcements is during construction, typically adding only 1 to 3 percent to construction costs.
For more information on tornado preparedness, please contact the University of Illinois Extension, Macoupin County office at (217) 854-9604. Be safe!
