Storm Safety Presented by; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office

Storm Safety As the storm season approach us, Tornados can occur along with flooding. These violent storms can strike at any time with little warning. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office wishes to provide the following danger signs along with safety tips that could help.

Storm Safety Stay alert to these danger signs: Sever thunderstorms with strong, gusty winds. A dark, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from the sky.

Storm Safety Terms to know: Tornado Watch: Tornados are possible- watch the sky and stay tuned to radio or TV stations for further information. Tornado Warning: A Tornado has been sighted or detected by weather radar-take shelter immediately!

Storm Safety IF THERE IS A TORNADO WARNING, PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY:

Storm Safety AT HOME: Go to your storm shelter or basement, or a central room on the lowest level. Stay away from windows. IN A MOBILE HOME OR TRAILER: These structures provide little protection. Leave and go to a storm shelter or the lowest level of a sturdy building. IN A PUBLIC BUILDING: Go to the designated shelter area or to an interior hallway on the lowest level floor.

Storm Safety IN YOUR CAR: Stop, get out, and go to the storm shelter or lowest level in a nearby building. IN OPEN COUNTRY: Lie flat in a ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. DO NOT get under an overpass of bridge.

Storm Safety FLOODING: Some floods develop slowly. While flash floods can strike in a matter of minutes.

Storm Safety Terms to Know : FLOOD WATCH: Flooding is possible- stay tuned to radio or TV for information. FLASH FLOOD WATCH: Flash flooding is possible and could occur without warning- stay tuned to radio or TV and be prepared to move to higher ground. FLOOD WARNING: Flooding is occurring or is about to.

Storm Safety FLASH FLOOD WARNING: A FLASH FLOOD IS OCCURING-GET TO HIGHER GROUND IF NECESSARY. POTECT YOUR FAMILY IN CASE OF FLODDING: Learn flood evacuation routes and be familiar of the high ground areas. Evacuate when instructed by authorities and return home only when they say it’s safe to do so.

Storm Safety Be aware of streams, washes and other low-lying areas that are prone to suddenly flood. Never walk through moving water more than six inches deep. DO NOT drive into/through flooded roads. Avoid camping in areas along streams and washes, especially during threatening conditions.

Storm Safety BEWARE OF LIGHTNING INSIDE your home: Avoid showering, bathing, and using a phone that has a cord, except in a emergency. Unplug appliances, computers and turn off air conditioners.

Storm Safety OUTSIDE: In a forest, seek shelter under small trees. Never stand under a tall tree in an open area. In an open areas, go to a low place such as a valley or ravine-but beware of flash floods. Stay away from metal fences, pipes, equipment and machinery.

Tornado Myths and Facts Myth: Areas near lakes, rivers, and mountains are safe from tornadoes. Fact: No place is safe from tornadoes. A tornado near Yellowstone National Park left a path of destruction up and down a 10,000-foot mountain. Myth: The low pressure with a tornado causes buildings to explode as the tornado passes overhead. Fact: Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause most structural damage.

Tornado Myths and Facts Myth: Windows should be opened before a tornado approaches to equalize pressure and minimize damage. Fact: Windows should be left closed to minimize damage from flying debris and to keep the high wind and rain out of the structure. Myth: If you are driving and see a tornado, you should drive at a right angle to the storm. Fact: The best thing to do is seek the best available shelter. Many people are injured or killed by remaining in their vehicles.

Tornado Myths and Facts Myth: People caught in the open should seek shelter under highway overpasses. Fact: Do not seek shelter under highway overpasses or under bridges. If possible, take shelter in a sturdy, reinforced building.

Phone Numbers Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office – East Zone – North Zone – South Zone – Jefferson County Dispatch - Non-Emergency – Emergency 911

Other Assistance National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or NOAA Weather Radio frequency – MGH or MGH Water Resources; Bureau of Reclamation – AmerenUE – orhttp://