While science has increased our ability to predict these devastating storms, the fact remains that they are still very unpredictable, causing havoc on one side of a street while leaving the other unharmed. That is why businesses should be prepared for tornadoes before, during, and after they strike. Identify a safe area in your buildings or a shelter. OSHA suggests the following when determining a safe place:
- Seek a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible
- Stay away from doors, windows and outside walls
- Stay in the center of the room, and avoid corners because they attract debris -Seek rooms constructed with reinforced concrete, brick, or block with no windows and a heavy concrete floor or roof system overhead
- Avoid auditoriums, cafeterias, and gymnasiums that have flat, wide-span roofs
Have a disaster preparedness kit.
Among other items, these kits could include a hatchet or cutting tool to help clear debris, shoes, water, weather radio, and fresh batteries. Also, consider emergency kits for the vehicles in your fleet in the event your drivers are caught in a storm.
Know your local warning system
Train your employees and complete tornado drills regularly
Consider implementing vehicle telematics
When the tornado hits:
- get to a safe room or shelter immediately
- if you are in a vehicle DO NOT try to outrun a tornado
- if outside, get to a shelter or sturdy building
By being prepared we hope you and your loved ones can stay out of the way of our Northern Colorado spring tornados! Please let us know if you need any help!