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Since 1950, North Carolina has averaged
14 tornadoes and two tornado-related fatalities each year. 1998 was a
record year in North Carolina with 66 confirmed tornadoes through the
end of November. The previous record year was 1996, when 51 tornadoes
hit the state.
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Tornadoes can occur with little or no warning. You may have only a short
time to make life or death decisions. It is important to know the basics
of tornado safety so that you can survive should one strike.
- Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss how you will respond
to any emergency, including an approaching tornado. Pick two places
to meet; a spot outside your home for an emergency such as a fire, and
a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Choose
an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone
to call if the family gets separated.
- If a tornado is approaching go to an inner hallway or smaller inner
room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet. Go to the center
of the room. Try to find something sturdy you can get under and hold
onto to protect you from flying debris and/or a collapsed roof.
- Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to damage from high winds.
Even if your mobile home has tie-downs you should seek safe shelter
in a more substantial structure.
- Never try to outrun a tornado in a car. If you see a funnel cloud
or hear a tornado warning issued, get out of your vehicle and find safe
shelter.
- If no shelter is available, lie down in a low area using your arms
to cover the back of your head and neck.
- Be alert to what is happening outside. Some tornado danger signs are:
- Large hail Dark, often greenish sky.
- An approaching cloud of debris.
- Loud roar (often described as sounding like a freight
train).
- Dying winds and "still" air often occurring at the
trailing edge of a thunderstorm.
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IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREPARE FOR ALL TYPES
OF DISASTERS. KEEP ENOUGH SUPPLIES IN YOUR HOME TO MEET EACH MEMBER OF
YOUR FAMILY'S NEEDS FOR THREE DAYS. ASSEMBLE A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT.
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INCLUDE:
- A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day).
- Food that won't spoil.
- A change of clothing and footwear per person.
- One blanket or sleeping bag per person. A first-aid kit (include
any prescription medicines).
- A portable flashlight.
- A portable radio (don't forget extra batteries).
- Cash (the automated bank machines won't work without electricity.
- Any special items for infants, elderly, disabled family members.
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YOUR FAMILY IS DEPENDING ON YOU !
ARE YOU PREPARED ?
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