1. Preparedness and Mitigation:

Florida is well known for its severe weather. Every year, we see and hear about people that were inadvertently caught in the middle of a severe storm or tornado. Do you know what to do to protect your loved ones if this was to happen to you? What if you are traveling in a car and suddenly drive into blinding rain, lightening or worse? The following information will provide some help in preparing yourself and your family for whatever is thrown your way.

2. Prepare a Home Tornado Plan:

Pick a place where family members could gather if a tornado is headed your way. It could be a basement or, if there is no basement, a center hallway, bathroom or closet on the lowest floor. Keep this place uncluttered. If you are in a high rise building, you may not have enough time to go to the lowest floor. Pick a place in a hallway in the center of the building. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit containing:

• First Aid Kit and essential medications
• Battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
• Canned food and a can opener
• Bottled water
• Sturdy shoes and work gloves
• Also include in the kit written instructions on how to turn off your home's utilities
• Conduct periodic tornado drills, so everyone remembers what to do when a tornado is approaching.

3. Stay Tuned for Storm Warnings:

Listen to your local radio and cable TV stations for updated storm information. Know what a tornado WATCH and WARNING means
WATCH: a tornado is possible in your area
WARNING: a tornado has been sighted and may be headed your way. TAKE COVER IMMEDIATELY.
Tornado Watches and Warnings are issued by Brevard County Emergency personnel.

4. When a Tornado WATCH is issued:

Listen to local radio and cable TV stations for further updates. Be alert to changing weather conditions. Blowing debris or the sound of an approaching tornado may alert you. Many people say a tornado sounds like a freight train.

5. When a Tornado WARNING is issued:

If you are inside, go to the safe place you picked to protect yourself from glass and other flying objects. The tornado may be approaching your location. If you are outside, hurry to the basement of a near-by sturdy building or lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area. If you are in a car or mobile home, get out immediately and head for safety (as above).

6. After the Tornado passes:

Watch out for fallen power lines and stay out of the damaged area. Listen to the radio for information and instructions. Follow all directions given by local authorities (these are for your safety). Inspect your home carefully, be especially alert for the smell of gas, arcing or downed power lines and structural damage. If shelters are opened in the County, local radio will give the locations and opening times. If you go to a shelter PLEASE take your Disaster Supplies Kit, blankets and a change of clothes, if possible.